Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, we're here to provide you with information on home improvement, finance, design, and helpful tips to keep in mind when considering the purchase of a new home.

hearts in the sandValentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms, and Southport/Oak Island, NC, offers something special for every type of couple. Whether you and your significant other are pet lovers, history buffs, art enthusiasts, nature explorers, shopping aficionados, or foodies, you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate your love in this charming coastal town. Here’s how to make Valentine’s Day unforgettable based on your shared passions:

For Pet Lovers

Bring your four-legged friend along for a romantic walk at Waterfront Park or Caswell Beach, where leashed pets are welcome (unleashed dogs allowed on Caswell during certain times of day/year). Enjoy outdoor dining at a pet-friendly restaurant like Fishy Fishy Café, where your pup can soak up the…

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Celebrating the December 2024 Top Producers

Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® along with its Executive Board of Directors is pleased to announce the firm's top producing agents and teams from the month of November 2024. 

Please join us in congratulating the following for attaining the highest production in representing the interests of buyers and sellers.

Southport Offices

  • Top Listing Agent: Elvira Gilbert
  • Top Selling Agent: Rosanne Matheson

Oak Island Office

  • Top Listing Agent: Rodney Axsom
  • Top Selling Agent: Amy Gereb

Teams

  • Top Listing Team: Rudd Sold Group
  • Top Selling Team: Making Waves With the Grays

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Brunswick County’s residential real estate market remained strong through October and November, with year-to-date sales volume surpassing $2.5 billion and continuing to track ahead of last year’s pace. In addition to strong sales, inventory increased, reaching levels not seen in several years.

“While rising inventory might be a warning sign of a slowing market in other areas, that’s not the case in Brunswick County.” said Cynthia Walsh, CEO of the Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®. “Home sales have been steady all year, in part because Brunswick County continues to be one of the fastest-growing counties in the state and nation. The increased supply is needed to meet the continued strong demand.”

In November, new listings increased 9.7%…

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Celebrating the November 2024 Top Producers

Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® along with its Executive Board of Directors is pleased to announce the firm's top producing agents and teams from the month of November 2024. 

Please join us in congratulating the following for attaining the highest production in representing the interests of buyers and sellers.

Southport Offices

  • Top Listing Agent: Elvira Gilbert
  • Top Selling Agent: Elvira Gilbert

Oak Island Office

  • Top Listing Agent: Pat Proctor
  • Top Selling Agent: Kathy MacNish

Teams

  • Top Listing Team: Rudd Sold Group
  • Top Selling Team: The Jolliff Team

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Smart home technology has become increasingly popular, transforming ordinary homes into efficient, convenient, and secure living spaces. With the market offering a wide range of smart devices, it can be challenging to determine which upgrades are truly worth the investment. This article explores the most valuable smart home upgrades, focusing on those that enhance comfort, security, and energy efficiency.


1. Smart Thermostats

Benefits:

Smart thermostats, such as the Nest Learning Thermostat or the Ecobee SmartThermostat, are a top choice for homeowners looking to save on energy bills while maintaining a comfortable home environment. These devices learn your schedule and preferences, adjusting the temperature automatically to optimize energy…

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Celebrating the October Top Producers

Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® along with its Executive Board of Directors is pleased to announce the firm's top producing agents and teams from the month of October 2024. 

Please join us in congratulating the following for attaining the highest production in representing the interests of buyers and sellers.

Southport Offices

  • Top Listing Agent: Rosanne Matheson
  • Top Selling Agent: Stephen Mills

Oak Island Office

  • Top Listing Agent: Kathy MacNish
  • Top Selling Agent: Karen Wirzulis

Teams

  • Top Listing Team: The Jolliff Team
  • Top Selling Team: The Jolliff Team

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BCAR September 2024 Real Estate Market Stats

Brunswick County’s residential real estate market surpassed $2 billion in year-to-date sales volume for the fourth consecutive year, tracking a month ahead of last year’s pace for this milestone. In September, new listings, units sold and total sales volume increased, while average and median sales prices slightly decreased.

“Our market continues to outpace itself, hitting $2 BILLION a month earlier than last year,” said Cynthia Walsh, BCAR CEO. “This milestone is no easy feat, and the nearly 1,000 Brunswick County REALTORS who have participated in a transaction this year deserve a pat on the back. As far as September goes, demand remains strong, and I expect these trends to remain consistent as the holidays approach.”

New listings increased…

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Celebrating the September Top Producers

Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® along with its Executive Board of Directors is pleased to announce the firm's top producing agents and teams from the month of September 2024. 

Please join us in congratulating the following for attaining the highest production in representing the interests of buyers and sellers.

Southport Offices

  • Top Listing Agent: Bob Lewis
  • Top Selling Agent: Rosanne Matheson

Oak Island Office

  • Top Listing Agent: Pat Proctor
  • Top Selling Agent: Kathy MacNish

Teams

  • Top Listing Team: Rudd Sold Group
  • Top Selling Team: Rudd Sold Group

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Who Pays What

Understanding the allocation of costs in a real estate transaction is paramount in the process for both buyers and sellers. Closing costs can make or break a transaction by significantly impacting financial considerations. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time home buyer, understanding the details on who pays what at the end of the day will empower you to have more confidence at the closing table.

Closing Costs: Sellers

Prorated Property Taxes &/or HOA Fees
Property taxes in North Carolina are paid in arrears meaning the taxes for a property are prorated based upon the cumulative number of days the seller owned the home throughout the year. Therefore, if a seller closes in December they are more likely to pay more taxes…

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Ensure a Smooth Closing Process by Avoiding these Financial Steps

It’s important to keep a few things in mind when applying for a mortgage and closing on the home. Maintaining financial stability during the home-buying process is vital to the success and ease of your transaction. Minor fluctuations in your credit score could substantially impact your mortgage interest rate and loan approval. It’s important to avoid any action that can negatively influence your credit or change your financial situation. Here, we summarize 10 financial moves that you should avoid if you’re in the process of buying a home.

1. Changing Jobs

A stable employment history is a preferred characteristic for lenders. Disruptions in employment history, specifically those…

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