Fuquay’s Favorite Things

Fuquay's Favorite Things: 2023 Gift Guide

Welcome to ‘Fuquay’s Favorite Things: a local gift guide’—your ultimate resource for discovering the heartbeat of our vibrant town. Recently recognized among the top cities to live in, Fuquay has proudly established itself alongside neighboring Cary and Holly Springs. Throughout the past decade, an array of quaint shops, diverse eateries, and charming boutiques has woven themselves into the fabric of our community.

What truly sets Fuquay apart is its collection of cherished Mom and Pop establishments, bypassing the dominance of larger box-stores. This season, we aim to honor and celebrate these local businesses that have contributed to the flourishing essence of our town. Our curated selection highlights handpicked treasures from across Fuquay, ensuring that when you shop from this list, you not only discover the perfect gifts but also champion and uplift the incredible people who form the heart and soul of this community.

Home & Decor

Handmade Wreath + Candle

Perfect for those early December holiday parties or Secret Santa, this gift combo will put everyone into the Christmas spirit. New soy candle scents include Carolina Christmas, Fraser Fir, and Sweater Weather.

With 27 years of experience, Flowers on Broad Street can also deliver a fresh arrangement the same day. Their flowers are gathered from around the world and creatively designed for each customer.

Flowers on Broad Street is located at 517 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Personalized Ornament

From zip codes to full addresses, The Redheaded Camel has a variety of hand lettered, engraved ornaments in her “love where you live” collection.

The Redheaded Camel is a home decor and lifestyle brand and has been in business for 10 years. All products feature Sarah’s original art, are products manufactured in the USA, and most items are fully handmade.

The Redheaded Camel is located online.

Hymn Tea Towel

The much loved hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy” is printed in a royal purple on a beautiful designed tea towel. Generously sized and made to last a lifetime. There are other hymns to choose from including “It Is Well” and “Amazing Grace.”

Maren May’s Boutique offers a curated selection of sophisticated, feminine, and timeless women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts!

Maren May’s Boutique is located at 704 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Volcano Candle

The Volcano Candle is the crème de la crème of candles these days. With notes of tropical fruits & sugared citrus, the Volcano scent is familiar and inviting, fresh and powerful! It has universal approval – we often hear that both women and men LOVE it.

Shoppes on Main is a gift and apparel store found behind Cousin Couture.

Shoppes on Main is located at 212 S Main St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Culinary

Locally-Made Gourmet Basket

Delight the Foodie in your life with a treasure trove of locally crafted delicacies from our state. As a beloved locally owned garden center and gift shop, The Garden Hut prides itself on two decades of providing top-notch plants, exquisite home decor, and exceptional customer services. Their shelves are adorned with an array of Made in North Carolina specialty food items and enticing gift baskets.

The Garden Hut is located at 1004 Old Honeycutt Road, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Loose-Leaf Tea & Teapot

Fuquay Spice & Tea has one 200 tea blends, 100 medicinal herbs, 100 spice blends, 30 olive oils and vinegars, and a wide selection of gifts and local products. With all of these choices, you’ll easily find something for everyone, whether they’re a tea enthusiast, inspired chef, or someone seeking relaxation and mindfulness.

Fuquay Spice & Tea is located at 503 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Local Honey

You’ve got to stop in and pick up a jar of Cloister Honey. Raw, artisan & hand crafted right here in NC!

For All Things Southern is a gift shop offering NC small business products for you to enjoy.

For All things Southern is located at 121 Raleigh St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Art & Creativity

Art Workshop

For those who value an experience over an item, gifting a ticket to one of Curated Craft Marketplace’s Art Workshops is the perfect gift. Attendees will learn a new skill from a local artist while having fun and getting creative with other people in the community! Curated Craft Marketplace also offers unique home goods, decor, accessories, and gifts. The large majority of products are handmade by local artists and small businesses. They currently feature the work of 50 North Carolina based artisans.

Curated Craft Marketplace is located at 214 S Main St. Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Remote Control Crawler

The Crawlers (and all purchases from RC Hobby) come with something much greater than the car itself: a lifetime opportunity to use their hand built tracks. They have indoor and outdoor tracks for all ages, and race mini z’s every Friday night!

RC Hobby is a family owned and operated small business that has been supporting the hobby enthusiasts of the Triangle for 20 years! RC, Static models, electric, nitro and more are part of their hobby shop expertise.

RC Hobby is located at 507 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

For Little Ones

"Good Luck Fishermen" Children's Book

“Set the hook on a largemouth bass and keep your line tight.”

Read along as fishermen try their luck at catching a variety of freshwater and saltwater game fish. Species include: largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, smallmouth bass, striper, brown trout, walleye, redfish, speckled trout, snapper, tuna, blue marlin, and mahi-mahi.

Lollipops Children’s Boutique is a classic, timeless clothing & gift store for baby & child.

Lollipops Children’s Boutique recently opened at 504 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Style & Beauty

Platform Fuzzy Slip Ons

23 years later, we’re still obsessed with Uggs. Grab a pair of the popular Fuzzy Slip Ons at Cousin Couture, and shop for an outfit or gift card while you’re there. This is the perfect gift for any tween or teen girls.

Cousin Couture is a fashionable women’s shop featuring trendy apparel, shoes, and accessories.

Cousin Couture is located at 212 S Main St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Lollia Dream Eau De Parfum

This gorgeous bottle of perfume will be a showstopper for looks and smell. Dream perfume by Lollia smells like sweet honeysuckles and white tea. There are also hints of linden and bergamot.

SouthernlyPlace is an independently-owned retailer that aims to provide modern, stylish, and vintage-inspired home decor and gifts.

SouthernlyPlace is located at 514 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Prescription Sunglasses

If you wear glasses, you know that finding a pair of CUTE prescription sunglasses is a task. Additionally, many of us probably have Health Savings Accounts that need to be used by the end of the year. Use your benefits to get your glasses-wearing loved ones a gift card to pick out new specs with their prescriptions!

Family Optical is an Optician-run eyeglass shop focused on making eyeglass shopping relaxing and fun.

Family Optical is located at 121 Raleigh St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Health & Wellness

Organic Body Care

The Alaffia Brand offers a luxury experience while using fair trade ingredients that support community empowerment products in West Africa. Their best sellers are the Bubble Bath, Shampoo, and Body Lotion.

The Vine Natural Health Shoppe encourages and empowers folks to explore natural and holistic wellness, with a focus on taking better care of themselves all the time – whatever that means or looks like for each person. In addition to supplements, the shelves are stocked full of options for clean, non-toxic and organic body and home care items that are not only safer, but packed with healing, therapeutic benefits thanks to the botanical ingredients.

The Vine is located at 506 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

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The Spookiest Parts of Real Estate: Are You Prepared?

The Spookiest Parts of Real Estate

Did you know that a staggering 40% of first-time homebuyers face chilling surprises in the real estate world? But the real question is, are you prepared to navigate the maze of low appraisals, bidding wars, and unexpected expenses? In this blog post, we’ll reveal spine-tingling statistics, challenge your real estate know-how with thought-provoking questions, and equip you with the tools to not only survive but thrive in the eeriest corners of the North Carolina Real Estate market.

Do You Know the Real Cost?

The Spooky Side of Expenses

Often, buyers believe their only significant expense is the down payment, but the truth is far more intricate. As you approach the closing table, a swarm of unexpected costs can emerge – closing fees, proration of taxes, loan commitment fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and homeowner’s insurance premiums – that cast a dark cloud over your dream.

Nothing will create a pit in your stomach quicker than learning you owe much more money than you originally planned. This is where having an experienced Realtor and lender can help you uncover these fees in advance, ensuring you’re well-prepared for what lies ahead. Download our full list of Buyer’s Expected Expenses here and don’t let unexpected closing expenses haunt your real estate dreams.

Is Your Home Worth Its Weight in Gold?

the low appraisal dilemma

An appraisal is like a report card for your potential new home. It’s conducted by a professional appraiser to determine the property’s current market value. This evaluation is pivotal, especially when securing a mortgage, as it directly influences the loan amount your lender will approve.

Here’s why it’s crucial: Your lender cannot approve you for more than the appraised price of the home – even if your pre-qual was higher.

If your dream home appraises for less than the agreed-upon purchase price, it can lead to a difficult scenario. If you are faced with a low appraisal, you have a few options.

First, your Realtor can negotiate with the seller to lower the purchase price to match the appraisal value. However in most cases, depending on the market, sellers are unlikely to lower their price. Alternatively, you can pay the gap price between the appraisal and purchase price out of pocket. If these options are not viable, you may need to reconsider the deal all together.

Navigating the appraisal dilemma requires a careful consideration of the current market. An experienced Realtor can guide you in what price you offer on the property, hopefully eliminating any issues with the appraisal.

Real-Life Nightmares

tales of delayed closings

Real Estate closings are often accompanied by tight timelines, and delays can be detrimental. Picture the scenario: you’re all set to move into your new home, but the closing gets delayed due to the sellers not completing necessary repairs as promised.

Closings can be delayed for a multitude of reasons – such as title issues, home inspection findings, seller/buyer delays – and many of these can put one side in risk of breaching the contract.

To minimize the risk of closing delays, it’s essential for both buyers and sellers to work closely with their real estate agents, and other professionals involved in the transaction. Proactive communication and thorough preparation can help address potential issues and keep the closing process on track.

Bidding Wars

THE BATTLE FOR YOUR DREAM HOME

In the realm of real estate, bidding wars can turn the pursuit of your dream home into an intense battleground. As demand for desirable properties often surpasses supply, multiple buyers may compete fervently, driving up prices and intensifying the competition. It’s not uncommon for homes to receive multiple offers within days of being listed, pushing buyers into bidding wars. In these high-stakes showdowns, it’s essential to be well-prepared, with a clear budget and a seasoned realtor like myself by your side. With expert guidance, strategic offers, and a keen understanding of the local market, you can navigate these battles and increase your chances of emerging victorious in the pursuit of your dream home.

Tips to help:

Work with an experienced Realtor
Send your pre-approval with your offer to purchase
Make a strong initial offer
Shorten the closing period (as much as your type of loan will allow)
Tailor your offer to the seller: do they want a higher due diligence? Closing costs paid for? A higher purchase price isn’t always the answer.

High-Interest Rates

weighing the cost

When it comes to high-interest rates in the real estate market, many prospective buyers often hesitate, thinking that it might be wiser to wait. The common misconception is that higher rates mean they should hold off on their homeownership dreams. However, what many fail to realize is that when interest rates go down, house prices tend to go up. Waiting may seem financially prudent at first glance, but in reality, it can be a costly decision.

Picture this scenario: During a period of high interest rates, you may find yourself spending an extra $400 on your monthly mortgage payment. It might seem like a significant burden, but consider this – if you wait until next year when interest rates have gone down, that same house you were eyeing could have increased in value by $25,000 or more, making it subject to fierce bidding wars. Suddenly, that $400 monthly difference pales in comparison.

Moreover, it’s important to remember that refinancing is always an option. As interest rates fluctuate, you can explore opportunities to refinance your mortgage, potentially securing a lower rate and reducing your monthly payments. So, while high-interest rates may appear daunting, understanding their implications and the broader market dynamics can help you make informed decisions on your homeownership journey.

As you embark on your real estate journey, remember that knowledge is your most potent weapon against the spookiest surprises. The unexpected expenses, low appraisals, delayed closings, bidding wars, and high-interest rates can all be tamed with preparation and expertise. Don’t let fear hold you back. Instead, embrace the challenge, ask the tough questions, and build a support system that will guide you through the haunted house of real estate.

And speaking of support, having an experienced realtor by your side, like myself, can make all the difference. A seasoned realtor not only understands the market intricacies but also acts as your fearless guide through the labyrinth of real estate. They can help you decode contingencies, negotiate effectively, and ensure you don’t fall victim to low appraisals. Their knowledge and expertise can be your beacon of light in the darkest corners of the market, providing you with the confidence and assurance you need to become a triumphant homeowner. Don’t just survive; thrive in the world of real estate with a trusted realtor as your ally.

Want 1-on-1 help with house hunting? Let's chat!

Fall Real Estate Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in 2023

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in the Tar Heel State this autumn, it’s essential to understand how the local real estate market typically performs during this time of year. In this Fall Real Estate Market Update, we’ll delve into the factors that influence the NC real estate market in 2023 and provide valuable insights for both buyers and sellers.

This post is all about the NC Fall Real Estate Market Updates you need to know to buy and sell in NC this fall.

For Buyers

1. Less Competition, More Negotiation Power:

Fall often sees a decline in the number of buyers actively searching for homes. With fewer competitors in the market, buyers have more room to negotiate favorable terms, such as purchase price and closing costs. Be prepared to take advantage of this window of opportunity.

2. interest rates may rise:

While interest rates have remained historically low in recent years, it’s crucial to keep an eye on potential rate increases. Consult with a mortgage expert to secure a competitive interest rate, as even a small change can impact your monthly payments.

3. inventory may be limited

Although there may be less competition, you might find a smaller selection of available homes compared to the spring and summer seasons. Be patient and work closely with your real estate agent to identify suitable properties that meet your criteria.

4. inspect for seasonal issues

When touring homes in the fall, pay attention to seasonal concerns like the condition of the roof, heating system, and insulation. These elements can be crucial for comfort during the colder months and might require extra scrutiny.

For Sellers

1. curb appeal is key

The fall season presents an excellent opportunity to showcase your home’s curb appeal. Keep the yard well-maintained, rake fallen leaves, and consider planting seasonal flowers to create an inviting first impression. Check out our Fall Curb Appeal Tips to get some inspo!

2. property pricing is vital

While there might be fewer buyers in the market, pricing your home competitively remains essential. Work closely with your real estate agent to set a realistic asking price based on recent comparable sales in your area. To receive a complimentary CMA to see your home’s selling price, click here.

3. highlight fall features

Emphasize the cozy and warm aspects of your home during showings. Lighting a fireplace, staging with autumn decor, and ensuring proper insulation can make your property feel more appealing during the fall months.

4. flexibility in timing

Be prepared for longer time on the market compared to the spring or summer. Flexibility in your selling timeline can help you find the right buyer willing to appreciate your property’s unique features.

5. prepare for home inspections

Buyers may be more cautious during the fall, so ensure your home is in top condition. Address any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks to avoid potential issues during inspections.

The fall season brings its own set of opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers in the North Carolina real estate market. While buyers can enjoy less competition and potentially favorable negotiation terms, sellers can capitalize on the charm of autumn to make their homes more appealing. Ultimately, working with an experienced real estate agent who understands the local market conditions is your best strategy for a successful transaction. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the fall season in NC holds promise for those who are prepared. Happy house hunting or selling!

Top 5 Home Staging Myths and What To Do Instead

5 Home Staging Myths | What Really Matters When Selling

Selling your home can be a meticulous process, and one crucial aspect often overlooked is avoiding common home staging myths. We’ve all heard about what to do when selling your home, but what about what not to do?

When it comes to selling your home, effective staging can make a world of difference. However, not all staging strategies are created equal. In this guide, we’ll debunk five common home staging myths that might seem like a good idea but don’t actually add value to your sale. Let’s dive in and discover what truly works to make your home shine.

Why Home Staging is Crucial: Before we delve into these blunders, it’s essential to understand why home staging matters. Numerous studies have consistently shown that well-staged homes tend to sell faster and often at higher prices. Staging helps buyers see the potential of a space, making it easier for them to envision themselves living there.

In this post, we’ll debunk 5 common home staging myths to avoid when selling your home, from a seasoned Realtor.

COMMON HOME STAGING MYTH #1

SPLURGING ON HIGH END FURNITURE

Belief: Buying expensive furniture will make my home look more luxurious and valuable.

Reality: High-end furniture can be a costly investment, but it doesn’t necessarily translate to higher perceived value. Opt for well-maintained, stylish furniture that suits your space and appeals to a broad audience.

As any savvy Realtor will tell you, it’s not about the price tag; it’s about the presentation. While splurging can be fun, the reality is that well-maintained, stylish furniture that suits your space is what truly shines. Buyers want to feel at home, not overwhelmed by a royal couch.

COMMON HOME STAGING MYTH #2

THE MORE DECOR, THE MERRIER

Belief: Adding an abundance of decorative items will make my home feel cozier and more inviting.

Reality: Overloading with accessories can actually overwhelm potential buyers. Choose a few tasteful decorative pieces and focus on decluttering to create a welcoming environment.

Too many accessories can turn your home into a maze. Instead, embrace the ‘less is more’ approach. Select a few tasteful decorative pieces and let your well-staged space breathe.

COMMON HOME STAGING MYTH #3

A COMPLETE ROOM RENOVATION IS A MUST

Belief: I have to renovate every room to make my house seem modern.

Reality: While renovations can be impactful, they are also expensive and time-consuming. Instead, prioritize essential repairs and updates, such as fresh paint and fixing visible issues.

It’s not about completely reinventing the wheel. Your home has character, and potential buyers often appreciate a mix of your unique style with a few strategic updates.

COMMON HOME STAGING MYTH #4

BOLD AND TRENDY PAINT COLORS SET YOU APART

Belief: Bold and trendy paint colors will help my home standout in the market.

Reality: While a pop of color can be appealing, overly bold or trendy choices can limit buyers’ imagination. Stick to neutral paint colors that provide a clean canvas for potential buyers.

Bold colors can indeed make a statement, but they can also limit your buyers’ imagination. The secret sauce? Stick to neutral paint colors. They provide a versatile backdrop that allows buyers to picture their own style in your space, which is what you ultimately want.

COMMON HOME STAGING MYTH #5

AESTHETICS TRUMP MAINTENANCE

Belief: Aesthetic improvements take precedence over maintenance tasks.

Reality: Neglecting maintenance like leaky faucets or electrical issues can deter buyers, no matter how good your home looks. A well-maintained home is just as crucial as its appearance.

The caveat to this is the current market. If it’s a seller’s market, you may be able to use repairs as a bargaining tool during negotiations. However, it’s a buyer’s market, you will likely sell faster if you fix issues beforehand. Additionally, price point matters here. If the home is in a low price point, most buyers expect a fixer-upper. At the higher price point, buyers expect the home to reflect the cost.

By dispelling these five home staging myths, you’ll be better equipped to stage your home effectively and attract potential buyers. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that more expensive furniture, an abundance of decor, or extensive renovations are the only ways to add value to your sale. Focus on what truly matters: creating a clean, inviting space that appeals to a wide range of buyers.

Avoiding these misconceptions will lead to a more successful home sale and a more positive experience overall. Remember, it’s not about what you spend, but how effectively you present your home.

Buying or Selling in North Carolina? Let's chat about what your options are - no strings attached.

6 Charming North Carolina Fall Curb Appeal Tips for a Standout Listing

Listing your North Carolina home for sale this Fall? These 6 tips for adding Fall Curb Appeal will make your home a standout for buyers.

6 Charming Fall Curb Appeal Tips for a Standout Listing

As the leaves in North Carolina begin to display their stunning shades of red, orange, and gold, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home’s exterior matches the warmth and charm of the season. Fall curb appeal is not only about making your home inviting—it’s also about capturing the attention of potential buyers. In this blog post, we’ll share 6 charming North Carolina fall curb appeal tips to enhance your home’s exterior and make a memorable impression on buyers looking to make a move this autumn. The most important thing to keep in mind is to remove all clutter. Each item should be strategically placed to ensure a welcoming first impression.

1. Embrace Southern Foliage

Utilize the vibrant fall foliage that North Carolina is known form. Decorate your entrance with potted plants featuring local favorites like mums, pansies, and ornamental kale. These plants thrive in the cooler temperatures and add a burst of color to your home’s exterior, perfect for enhancing your fall curb appeal.

2. Showcase Seasonal Decor

Incorporate quintessential fall elements like pumpkins, hay bales, and cornstalks to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Arrange a tasteful display on your porch or around your mailbox to set the scene for potential buyers as they approach your home.

3. Carolina Colors

Consider repainting your front door with a color inspired by the natural beauty of North Carolina in the fall. Deep reds, rustic oranges, and earthy browns can infuse your home with a sense of warmth that resonates with buyers. This is an inexpensive way to improve your fall curb appeal while also making an impact.

4. Illuminating Entryway

With shorter daylight hours, proper lighting is essential. Install outdoor lighting that complements your home’s architectural style and highlights its best features. Pathway lights and soft porch lighting can create an inviting ambiance during evening showings.

5. Southern Hospitality

Embrace some classic Southern hospitality by placing a welcoming doormat at the entrance, along with a comfortable seating area where buyers can imagine enjoying the crisp fall air. Swings, Adirondack chairs, and rocking chairs are easily added.

6. Landscaping

Incorporate native NC plants and trees into your landscaping for an authentic feel. NC is known for it’s dogwoods, red maples, and beautyberry bushes which add lots of color to your front yard.

As you prepare to sell your NC home this fall, remember that curb appeal sets the tone for buyers’ first impressions – not to mention the pictures they will first see online. By embracing the beauty of the season and infusing it into your home’s exterior, you can create an emotional connection that resonates with potential buyers. These 6 fall curb appeal tips will not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also highlight its unique charm and potential.

Ready to transform your North Carolina home’s exterior into an autumnal oasis? Save and share our infographic below for quick and easy reference as you prepare for a successful fall sale.

19 Beach Reads for Summer 2023

This summer, I’m fully entering my eat-pray-love era with no apologies. In the past, I’ve had my summers off since I was a teacher. This year, after changing my career, I will be fully employed during those hot months. So, while I can’t camp out next to the pool or beach for days at a time, I’ll be reading books that put them there mentally.

This post is all about 19 beach reads for summer of 2023.

Top 5 Picks

1. Where the Crawdads Sing

One of my favorite books I’ve ever read – and one of the best movies I’ve seen….and that NEVER happens at the same time. This mysterious and illustrative story takes place in NC and unsheathes what it means to be human.

2. Happy Place

Newly released, this is one I’ve been looking forward to. Recently broken up, a couple must “fake it til they make it” on a vacation with friends, and pretend they’re still together. Emily Henry’s writing is always a fun treasure, and there’s much to look forward to with this story.

3. Eat pray love

This is one for those who feel a little stuck, but dream for a life of happiness and adventure. If you want it, you must go get it – that’s the philosophy here. Learning to live in the moment and with purpose is key to life.

4. beach read

The book that started my love affair with Emily Henry…two polar-opposite writers living in neighboring beach houses for the summer watch as their lives collide in unexpected ways. They make a deal to write a book in the other person’s style (rom-com vs. great American novel) and promise not to fall in love.

5. barefoot

One reason I love Elin Hilderbrand’s books are because of the characters. She has a way of immersing you in the story with them, and creating an entire world around you. I really felt like I knew Vicki, Brenda, Melanie, and Josh, and that’s what kept me so interested in the book. Her novels are also not my normal “thriller” but the characters and storylines are weaved so beautifully that I couldn’t put the book down.

Click below to read a summary of each book!

Have you read any of these? Tell me what you think in the comments!