Wake Forest NC – The Twisted Vine Wine Shoppe – Historic Downtown Wake Forest!

Historic Downtown Wake Forest NC just got an incredible new addition to its already impressive list of destination shops – the Twisted Vine Wine Shoppe!

Twisted Vine is owned by some familiar faces in Wake Forest NC – yep, the same smiling and friendly faces that you see at the Wake Forest Coffee Company!  Albert Barneto and Bob Cubillas.       

Twisted Vine has some amazing wines available from all over the world including Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Austrailia, and France to name just a few!  They also stock some tremendous Yadkin Valley wines that come from here in our own back yard – North Carolina! When selecting their wines for inventory they reached out to the Wake Forest NC community and solicited their feedback as to what they wanted to see – so, this really is a wine shoppe for the community! 

They have wines for every budget and every occasion whether a light white wine for an afternoon picnic in the park to a deep, rich, decadent red for a dinner party!  Be sure to check out their climate controlled wine cooler – I have never heard or seen of one before but Bob was quick to educate me on the thermometer and how it works and keeps the wines at the PERFECT temperature!

The shoppe itself is beautiful!  Exposed brick walls, tall windows with rich coverings, and rustic hardwood floors lend to the ambiance and they have done a fabulous job with their displays! They have a bar set up for their special events which are popular and frequent.  Be sure to join them for one of their tastings– you never know what kind of wine you might discover.

The Twisted Vine is a social butterfly of sorts as well – you can check them out at their website:

Twisted Vine

their Facebook page:

Twisted Vine Facebook Page

and their Twitter account:

Twisted Vine Twitter

The hours of operation for the Twisted Vine are Wednesday – Monday from Noon until 9pm.  They are closed on Tuesdays.  Regardless of WHEN you stop by I am sure that you will see this guy there – the always present smile and ALWAYS willing to tell you a little bit about wine!  You rock, Bob!

Wake Forest NC – Calendar of Events August 31 – September 6, 2009

Oh my goodness – can you believe that September has crept up on us so quickly?  There have been so many things to do Wake Forest NC that the summer has quickly come and gone!  This is the time of year that Wake Forest NC gears up for their Autumn and Winter events – be on the look out for some special announcements soon!  In the meantime, enjoy what Wake Forest NC has to offer as we usher out the summer months….

Life in Wake Forest NC – there is always something happening!

From the Town of Wake Forest NC website:

Preschool Playgroup
Monday, Aug. 31;  9:30 am – 11:30 am
Blue Jay Point Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh *Location Change*
Wake Forest Baptist Church is hosting a preschool playgroup. The playgroup is free and open to the public. It’s a great opportunity to meet other parents while socializing your child. 

Firing Range Training
Monday, Aug. 31; 1:30 pm – 5 pm
Police Department Firing Range, behind Flaherty Park Community Center
Residents in the area are advised that the Wake Forest Police Department will conduct firing range training at the police department firing range, located behind the Flaherty Park Community Center. The firing range is utilized by Wake Forest Police officers who require instruction and practice in order to obtain current certification in the use of firearms. This certification is required in order for the officer to fulfill his duties for the Wake Forest Police Department. www.wakeforestnc.gov/residents/police_firingrange.aspx

IrishFest Writing Competition Entry Deadline
Tuesday, Sept. 1; 5 pm
The first annual Wake Forest IrishFest will be held on September 26 at Festival Park. To help celebrate Wake Forest’s national and international reputation for fostering the Arts, two writing competitions have been incorporated into the festival – a short story contest and a poetry contest. These competitions are in proud and loving memory of two young men who shared a passion for writing and left behind a rich legacy of the written word. So, be a part of the Andrew Britton Short Story Competition (www.AndrewBrittonBooks.com) or the Graham Johnston Poetry Competition (www.GJCAE.or). Entries must be received by September 1. Winners willl be announed at the September 26 IrishFest. For more information, including a complete list of rules and regulations, visit the above-referenced websites or contact Annie Nice at (919) 624-7117 or annienice777@yahoom.

Wake Forest Woman’s Club Meeting
Thursday, Sept. 3; 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Wake Forest Community House, 133 W. Owen Ave
During this month’s meeting, the Club will collect supplies for elementary schools as well as non-perishable food for Tri Ministries. If you cannot attend, items may be delivered to Carolyn Furr at the Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome. For more information, call membership chair Quinn Berardinelli at (919) 761-1646.

Wake Forest Artists Studio Tour Opening Reception and Preview Party
Friday, Sept. 4; 6 pm – 9 pm
Powers-Ludas House, 112 North Ave., downtown Wake Forest
Come by and meet the artists participating in the studio tour, nibble hors d’oeuvres and sip wine while listening to live music and viewing samples of the artists’ art which will be on display and available for sale at their studios during the studio tour. www.artistsstudiotour.com

 Wake Forest Farmers’ Market
Saturday, Sept. 5 ; 8 am – Noon
Downtown Wake Forest – Municipal Parking Lot 
The market offers fresh produce, pasture-raised beef, poultry and pork, free-range eggs, fresh and dried herbs, honey, jams and preserves, plus a whole lot more. The Farmers’ Market is open from 8 am to noon every Saturday April through November. www.wakeforestmarket.org 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – Crenshaw Hall Plantation Market Report – Beautiful Swim/Tennis Community!

Wake Forest NC has wonderful communities and Crenshaw Hall Plantation is just one of them!  Crenshaw Hall Plantation has a wonderful selection of single family homes with a few of them currently available!

The single family homes currently on the market range in price from $250,000 – $559,900 making them fit just perfectly into the two most popular price points in Wake Forest NC.  The square footage for the homes ranges from 2090-5105. Most homes have a transitional flair to them with a few Craftsman styled also available!  For more information regarding Crenshaw Hall Plantation or any Wake Forest NC homes for sale please don’t hesitate to give me a call – I’d be glad to help!  I am your Wake Forest NC Real Estate Agent!

Life in Wake Forest NC is unbelievable!

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – Did You Just Make Your Landlords Mortgage Payment? YOU Can Own A Home!

Nevin Williams has done it yet again!  In a clear and concise post he has managed to highlight the benefits of homeownership, emphasize the $8,000 Tax Credit (only available for a short time), explain the method for tax deduction for the TI portion of your PITI (if you don’t get that JUST READ his post) and, of course, make me laugh!

I don’t want to say that there “has never been a better time” to buy a home.  That is such a relative phrase.  I do want to underscore the significance of THIS cycle of real estate activity!  Homes for sale in the Wake Forest NC area are priced realistically and the variety of homes available currently certainly allow multiple choices for first time homebuyers!  What was available to you last year or the year before just became alot more attractive. 

If you are still betwixt and between on your decision to purchase a home you may actually miss this great opportunity!  Hesitant about whether you can qualify?  Give Nevin Williams a call.  He can help you with your credit score, credit report, and get you right in line as to what you can afford – most importantly he can help you decide what you can COMFORTABLY afford! 

Once Nevin Williams has you squared away with your pre-qualification give ME, Leesa Finley, a call!  I can help you explore some of the most amazing neighborhoods in Wake Forest NC and work with you to keep your sight on the prize – Home Ownership!  There are some simply amazing homes for sale in the Wake Forest NC area that fall at and below that $150,000 example that Nevin Williams illustrated below!  Intown living, country living, townhomes, condos, single family homes, and of every design you can think of to fit ANY family profile!

Life in Wake Forest NC gets more and more attractive everyday!

Via Nevin Williams (First Priority Financial):

Wake Forest home for rent…  What are you doing? 

You would most likely drive a few miles out of the way and wait in line for 30 minutes for a free tank of gas (a $50 value more or less) but you’ll walk away from Eight thousand dollars $8,000?  Explain to me..no better yet, explain to yourself how this makes sense. 

 Okay so it’s not about money, it’s a big decision and you aren’t sure you can qualify or afford a mortgage payment right?  Check this out:

If you pay $800 a month in rent, you could buy a $150,000 house*! Sure sounds better than searching Wake forest homes for rent doesn’t it?  

Got a question?  Contact me

I did the math for you:  Assuming you buy a $150,000 house instead of finding a home for rent in Wake Forest your estimated monthly mortgage payment would be as follows (5.5% rate APR5.75%):

Principal, interest and PMI (mortgage insurance)= 882.25

(After a small down payment of 3.5%($5,250) – you can even have family gift it to you or use your 401K!)

Estimated taxes= $121.25  Estimated insurance $35 for a total payment of $1,038.50

Wait! So how does this equate to a rent payment of $800?  Simple….  Mortgage interest and PMI is tax deductible***!

Here is an example **882.25 – 25% = 661.69 + taxes and insurance = $817.94

Eventually you could own your own home free and clear in Wake Forest but will you ever own homes for rent? 

Does your apartment owner own a home? Why are you buying it for him/her with that rent check? Why are you buying him/her the apartment complex too?!  

Here’s the truth: $$$$$$$ Owning a home is the first step to building wealth. $$$$$$$$

 

 

 

             EQUALS 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For me it’s a little complicated with all of the math and loan terms but for you it isn’t.  Buy a house, get up to eight thousand dollars from our government and you can pretty much say that Uncle Sam gave you a nice down payment. 

Why are you searching the internet looking for Wake forest homes for rent when you could be calling me to see if you qualify? If you do then call Leesa Finley of Circa Properties so she can find that perfect house, home, investment..whatever… for you!  She specializes in Wake forest homes and the amenities in the area.  

See what I mean by clicking here

Change your search from Wake forest homes for rent to Nevin Williams or Leesa Finley and own it instead!

Got a question?  Contact me

 

* The little asteriks mean that you would have to qualify and that there is no guarantee that you can buy this house.  You already knew this but the government thinks you don’t know any better so I have to throw in this disclaimer along with others.

** Here is another disclaimer (YIPPEE!)  I am not a tax professional and the formula I used of 25%-30% interest deduction is for demonstration purposes only.  This is a rough estimate and hypothetical. There is no guarantee that you will get a 25%-30% interest deduction so always check with a licensed and qualified tax professional to see how much if any interest you can write off.

*** If you earn over 100,000 gross annual income you will not be able to deduct your PMI payments against your taxes.

Searching for a home?                                                Complimentary MLS listings!         Cary               Apex                  Raleigh                Wake Forest             Charlotte Our services include personal budgeting, financial planning, retirement planning strategies and real estate contract review. You can find information relating to mortgages including calculators, current rates, buying a home, refinancing, VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional and Jumbo loans  by clicking here Licensed to broker loans with over 300 lenders including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citimortgage, Met Life, Fifth Third Bank, Flagstar, ING,Luther Burbank, Provident, Suntrust, US Bank and many more.  Find a home with our network of professional real estate agents interviewed and selected for their extensive knowledge and expertise!  Send us an e-mail with the city and state.  nevin@nevinloans.com You may also call us (888) 206-5781 My extension is 1017 “First Priority Financial, Inc. is licensed by the CA DRE, license #00654852.”

Wake Forest NC – Just What Are Today’s Interest Rates and What the Heck is PMI?

While I am NOT a lender I have some great friends that are and they always give me accurate and timely information!  Nevin Williams is just one of those people!

Below are the latest mortgage rates from Nevin Williams as well as a little primer on PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance).  Remember, if you are going to start a search for Homes For Sale in Wake Forest NC it’s best to speak with a lender first!  They can get you all squared away with a credit score check, credit report, a pre-qualification letter and help you to comfortably decide which loan program is best for you!

Life in Wake Forest NC just became a little more financially educated……

Via Nevin Williams (First Priority Financial):

Why Pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)? Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is required by most lenders when a borrower puts less than 20% down on a purchase loan. Paid for by the borrower, PMI not only protects the lender from foreclosure, it also enables many buyers to qualify for loans and purchase real estate when they couldn’t have otherwise. On January 1st, 2007, legislation went into effect making PMI tax deductible for new borrowers whose personal adjusted gross income is $100,000 or less. This has created additional opportunities for many buyers to finance a more expensive home or, in some cases, to obtain a lower monthly payment, while reducing annual income taxes. In most cases PMI can be cancelled once the accumulated equity has reached 20% of the home’s value, except with FHA loans which require a 22% equity position. Traditionally many buyers would opt for a second home loan known as a piggyback loan to avoid PMI. Factor in the new PMI tax benefit, and a borrower’s monthly payment may actually be lower with PMI versus a piggyback loan scenario. Choosing PMI is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It is my job to weigh my borrowers’ long-term goals and to provide comprehensive solutions that clearly explain all of the pros and cons of each mortgage option available. It’s a job I take very seriously.

Mortgage Interest Rates*

Rates as of Thursday, 27th August, 2009:   Conforming                   Rate             APR     Payment per $1000

Conforming APR Payment per $1,000 Jumbo APR Payment per $1,000 30-Yr. fixed 4.875% 5.020% $5.29                     Call 0.000% $0.00 15-Yr. fixed 4.375% 4.623% $7.59 for 0.000% $0.00 7-Yr. fixed ARM 4.25% 4.264% $4.92 jumbo 0.000% $0.00 5-Yr. fixed ARM 3.875% 4.264% $4.70 rates 0.000% $0.00 10 Yr. fixed ARM 4.75% 4.768% $5.22 % 0.000% $0.00 5-Yr. Interest Only 4.125% 4.390% $3.44 % 0.000% $0.00

*Rates are subject to change due to market fluctuations and borrower’s eligibility.

Rates subject to change. Certain credit requirements and other conditions apply. This is not a guarantee to lend. Rates based on a 12 day lock period and a minimum loan amount of 185,000. Credit determination must be made prior to approving rate. Equal opportunity lender. FPF CA DRE Lic#00654852 Nevin’s NC Lic#I139451 First Priority Financial NC Lic# B-146523-101

 

 

Searching for a home?                                                Complimentary MLS listings!         Cary               Apex                 Raleigh                    Wake Forest             Charlotte Our services include personal budgeting, financial planning, retirement planning strategies and real estate contract review. You can find information relating to mortgages including calculators, current rates, buying a home, refinancing, VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional and Jumbo loans  by clicking here Licensed to broker loans with over 300 lenders including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citimortgage, Met Life, Fifth Third Bank, Flagstar, ING,Luther Burbank, Provident, Suntrust, US Bank and many more.  Find a home with our network of professional real estate agents interviewed and selected for their extensive knowledge and expertise!  Send us an e-mail with the city and state.  nevin@nevinloans.com You may also call us (888) 206-5781 My extension is 1017 “First Priority Financial, Inc. is licensed by the CA DRE, license #00654852.”

Franklinton NC – 2111 Troys Trail – Inground, Saltwater Pool – 1.28 acres – 4bd

http://www.vflyer.com/home/flash/widgets/widget03.swf?id=1477140&host=www.vflyer.com

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – Awesome Shopping Destination! Boutique Shops and More….

Historic Downtown Wake Forest NC has some incredible shopping destinations!  Whether you are looking for that unique gift for someone special or a fantastic bottle of wine to take to your next dinner party check out all that Historic Downtown Wake Forest NC has to offer!

1. Cotton Company – a unique collection of “shops” with a wide variety of gift items and household items.
2. Everything But The Baby – a great shop for Baby Gifts, mother to be and momentos.
3. Everything But The Bride – a fantastic bridal shop with great gift ideas, announcements, etc.
4. GC5 – Vintage shop.
5. For Old Times Sake– Antiques, what-nots and more.
6. Next Consignment Botique – Upscale clothing consignment shop.
7. North Carolina Specialty Shop – NC specific foods and gift ideas.
8. Old Magnolia Trading Co. – Great gift ideas and decor for the home.
9. Red Door Interiors – Home decor and gift ideas.
10. Sprig – Unique gift and garden shop.
11. Twisted Vine – Wine Shop and Wine Tastings.
12. Storyteller’s Bookstore – independently owned Book Store.
13. Wake Forest Florist – beautiful floral arrangements for pick up or delivery.

Wake Forest NC is truly a shopping destination!  Come explore all the shops to see what treasure you might find next!

Life in Wake Forest NC offers great finds around each and every corner!

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – Scrumptious Choices for Restaurants in Historic Downtown

Wake Forest NC has some amazing restaurants in the Historic Downtown area!  With a little something to please everyone dining out couldn’t be easier!

1. Backfins Crabhouse – a great little seafood restaurant!
2. Forks Cafeteria – delicious home cooked foods.
3. LaForesta Italian Cafe & Pizzeria – no need to mention that this is one of my FAVES!
4. Las Margaritas – check out my review of this fantastic little Mexican restaurant
5. Olde English Tea Room – delightful little spot for afternoon tea and a light lunch.
6. Over The Falls Deli – scrumptuous deli sandwiches piled high with your favorites!
7. Pies & More – Southern cooking at it’s finest.
8. Seafood Shack – great little “seafood shack” 😉 
9. Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs – well, guess what they are famous for?  Amazing HOT DOGS!
10. A la Mode – Homemade Gelato and ice cream
11. Wake Forest Coffee Company – a popular local coffee shop with superb lattes and great pastries!

All of these restaurants are within walking distance in Historic Downtown Wake Forest NC.  So, the next time you are downtown and want a bite to eat don’t forget the local restaurants – they are truly unique and delicious!

Life in Wake Forest NC just got a whole lot tastier!

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – $8,000 Tax Credit FAQs

Time is running out to take advantage of the unbelievable $8,000 Tax Credit that is available to First Time Homes Buyers!  

I have had several phone calls and emails regarding the tax credit so I thought this post might serve to answer a few of the FAQs!

1. Am I eligible for the Tax Credit?    First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home, whether it be a new home or a resale, are eligible for the tax credit.  However, the home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.  The purchase date is the DATE OF CLOSING!
2. What is the definition of a First Time Home Buyer?  If you have not owned a primary residence within the last 3 consecutive years you are defined as a First Time Home Buyer.
3. How is the amount of the tax credit determined?  The tax credit is equal to 10% of the homes purchase price up to $8,000.
4. Is there a limit to my income if I want to claim the $8,000 Tax Credit?  Yes!  If you are single your income limit can be no more than $75,000 and if you are married your combined income limit can be no more that $150,000.
5. How is this Tax Credit different from the one that I heard about in 2008?  This Tax Credit is a true credit and DOES NOT need to be paid back!

 There are some unbelievable Homes For Sale in Wake Forest NC to choose from!  That coupled with the $8,000 Tax Credit makes it the perfect time to purchase your first home but, you really do have to hurry!  The closing must happen before December 1, 2009 to qualify for the Tax Credit and that isn’t much time! 

Give me a call today to see how I can get you on the right path to finding that perfect home and taking advantage of the $8,000 Tax Credit! 

Life in Wake Forest NC is full of opportunities!

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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Wake Forest NC – Tyler Run – A Fantastic Community With Fantastic Homes!

Wake Forest NC has wonderful communities and Tyler Run is just one of them!  Tyler Run has a triumphant mix of single family homes, townhomes and patio homes with a few of them currently available!

The single family homes currently on the market range in price from $184,500 – $324,900 making them fit just perfectly into the most popular price point in Wake Forest NC.  The square footage for the homes ranges from 1621 – 2480. Their styles differ from ranch style to two-story, up to two car garages, classic design to contemporary design! 

For more information regarding Tyler Run or any Wake Forest NC homes for sale please don’t hesitate to give me a call – I’d be glad to help!  I am your Wake Forest NC Real Estate Agent!

Life in Wake Forest NC is unbelievable!

 

 

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 – direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All
information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

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