Renée Hillman Receives ICON Agent Status From eXp Realty for the Fourth Year in a Row

Please help us congratulate Renée on receiving ICON Agent status from eXp Realty for August 2024. As you may remember, Renée also received this accolade in July 2021, July 2022, and July 2023. We are so proud of her hard work. We would like to take a moment to thank you for trusting Renée and the entire Hillman Real Estate Group team with all of your real estate needs. We would not be where we are today without you.

Modernist Home of the Month: An Artistic Ranch in Chapel Hill

Welcome to 621 Damascus Church Road, an artistic and well-designed one-level mid-century modern retreat in Chapel Hill. Situated on a six-acre private lot, surrounded by exquisite trees and greenery, this home is a showcase for relaxed living, enjoying nature, and entertaining family and friends. Listed for sale with Jodi Baskst at Real Estate Experts, we would love to represent you as your buyer’s agent.

Flip or Flop: The State of Fixer-Uppers in Raleigh

House flipping in Raleigh has experienced a notable decline, reflecting a broader national trend. According to a study by ATTOM, house-flipping activity in Raleigh has decreased significantly over the past year. Nationally, house-flipping activity dropped by 29.3% in 2023, marking the largest annual decrease since the financial crisis of 2008. This reduction can be attributed to limited housing options and increasing affordability issues in the Raleigh market.

Fixer Upper Stats

However, the downturn in flipping activity does not eliminate the potential benefits of purchasing a fixer-upper. Though the numbers have started to decline, rates are still up 111% from a decade ago and up 40% from 2018. In fact, buying a fixer-upper is a great way for wishful Raleigh homeowners to squeak out a deal. Despite the challenges, experienced REALTORS® (like those on the HREG team) can navigate the market to find properties that offer value and the possibility of appreciation through strategic renovations. Keep reading to learn more about how we can help you find the fixer-upper of your HGTV dreams.

“The typical fixer-upper costs $134,748 less than a turnkey home in the area.”

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Limited Availability but a High Reward

As we said, fixer-uppers are not as common as they used to be, but we can help you find them! Buying a home that needs a little work can be a great way to maximize your budget and get a home that fits your needs and style. There are many options for renovation buyers and we have lender partners who specialize in these types of loans. Whether the house is large or small, needs a lot of work, or just an update, a fixer-upper may be a great option to get you into that dream home in your dream neighborhood without breaking the bank.

Fixer-uppers are also a great opportunity for investors to pick up an inexpensive property and either flip it or do some updates and carry it as a rental. Here at HREG we work with many investors to find properties that will maximize their ROI (return on investment) and CAP rate (capitalization rate or the rate of return on a real estate investment property based on the income the property is expected to generate.)

Not sure where to start or if this is a good option for you? We can guide you through, start to finish, with finding the right home, loan, and vendors to turn that ugly duckling into a swan. Please email us at Renee@HREGSells.com or give us a call at 919-877-6708 to start your fixer-upper journey!

Current Homes with Fixer Upper Potential

Modernist Home of the Month: Mod Masterpiece on University Lake

721 Jones Ferry Road in Chapel Hill defies mere description through pictures alone. Within its walls lies a realm of wonders: discover hidden pantries and bookcase doors, refrigerated and charging drawers, secret compartments tucked in nearly every room, a bonus hidden laundry room, an art-screened jewelry rack, and voice-activated features that seamlessly orchestrate daily life. Listed for sale by Shenandoah Niemwsma at eXp Realty and Peggy Jennings at Inhabit Realty, this $2.6 million home is a one-of-a-kind modern masterpiece.

When this gem hit the market, we couldn’t resist showcasing it as our Modernist Home of the Month. Before diving into all of its lavish offerings and idiosyncrasies, we have a proposition for you: let us be your guides as you consider making this place your own. We have years of experience working with luxury buyers and specialize in modernist homes. We also have a great relationship with the listing agents. Give us a call at 919-443-5143 to schedule a tour and keep reading to learn more.

Designed by Phillip Szostak

Award-winning local architect Phillip Szostak designed this NC Modernist featured home. With three bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, and 3,413 square feet on over four acres, you will think you have stepped into another world—but you are only five minutes from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Szostak graduated from the NCSU College of Design and is known for many Triangle buildings including the WRAL-TV addition and the world-class Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC).

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Windows

High ceilings, skylights, and ribbon windows allow natural light and generous views of University Lake.

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Fireplace 2

The double-sided fireplace is one of our favorite features. From this vantage point, you are not just enjoying a fire—you’re treated to serene views of the lake. It’s a perfect spot to relax, read a book, or simply bask in the beauty of the outdoors from the comfort of your own home.

Kitchen

The chef’s kitchen is a culinary masterpience, designed for those who love to cook and entertain in style. Featuring stainless steel appliances, this kitchen is as practical as it is elegant. But what truly sets it apart is the adjacent butler pantry, a hidden gem that offers extra storage and prep space.

Hidden Feautres

The seamless flow design is a testament to thoughtful architecture and modern living. As you move through the house, you’ll notice how each space effortlessly transitions into the next, creating an open and inviting atmosphere.

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Bedroom

The owner’s suite is an oasis of its own. Enjoy the height of luxury with voice-automated Luxor shades, smart audio, and a hidden second laundry room for private use.

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Bathroom and Tub

Relax in the spa-like bathroom with heated floors, a recessed air bath tub and heated back, hot tool bins, illuminated mirrors, and more.

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Garage

In addition to its captivating main floors, 721 Jones Ferry Road boasts a spacious garage and nearly 600 square feet of pre-plumbed and heated space in the basement, offering endless possibilities for customization. This versatile area could be transformed into a cozy entertainment den, a private home gym, or even a spacious guest suite.

Is This Your Modern Dream Home?

721 Jones Ferry Road MHOTM Lake

It is certainly ours. We’ve only scratched the surface of what this modern abode has to offer. Contact us today at 919-443-5143 to schedule a private tour and experience the magic for yourself. Click on the button below for more details and photos. Your dream home awaits!