High End Condo Project coming to Myers Park

A new high end condo project will soon be built in Myers Park. This week, the Charlotte Business Journal reported that Opus Myers Park LLC, a company affiliated with developer Jim Gross, has bought a .7 acre parcel from Queens University at 1333 Queens Road. The land currently houses students in 28 apartments in North Hall, a residence dorm.

The location, at the heart of Myers Park, is in a great walkable spot. There are restaurants, a library, shopping, banking, and churches all within a quick walk. Edgehill park is a few blocks north with a picnic area, tennis courts, playground, and walking/fitness trails.

A short drive will have you in Uptown Charlotte for nightlife, museums, theater, sporting events, fine dining and more. SouthPark is just a quick drive south with world class shopping, dining, and open air concerts.

Kenwood Cottage Place Rendering

According to Mecklenburg County property records, the property was purchased for $4.2 million. This is more than the $3.1 million Queens University paid in 2008. The current building is 5 stories and was built in 1967 as an apartment complex called Providence Place Apartments. Queens University bought it in 2008 and converted it into student housing. This building would be razed to make way for the new project.  

Gross is reportedly planning a high-end condo project to contain a number of four and five story buildings. The project is expected to keep existing zoning allowing for 43 multi-family units per acre. The developer has been working with the surrounding neighborhoods and Myers Park Homeowners Association during the conception of the project.

The project would likely not get underway until after graduation in the spring as there are currently students living in the dorm. They will be allowed to stay through a rental agreement with the buyer.

Jim Gross has spearheaded a number of high profile luxury condo developments in recent years. Kenwood Myers Park, developed in 2013 has 7 units priced from $1.1 million to $1.4 million. He is currently developing Kenwood Cottage Place, with 6 units in Eastover priced from $1.6 million to $1.7 million. There is no word yet about a name or price point for this new project.

If you are interested in a luxury condo close to Uptown, give us a call at (704) 525-4045. We would love to show you properties and help you find your next home. You can also view homes on our website here.

Spotlight: Weddington Trace

The community of Weddington Trace is a beautiful neighborhood just off New Town Road in Waxhaw. This Union County enclave is just minutes from Providence Road, but has the relaxed feel of the country. This upscale community provides resort-style amenities in an area of equestrian farms. You will be lucky to call Weddington Trace home.

Weddington Trace is located about 20 minutes south of Charlotte, and is about three miles from the South Carolina state line. There is easy access to I-485 making for an easy commute. There is some retail close by, with plenty of additional options if you head to downtown Weddington, a few minutes north, or Ballantyne about 15 minutes away.

Ryan Homes began building Weddington Trace in 2006. Standard Pacific (now CalAtlantic Homes) took over building in 2011 and completed the development in 2015. Homes here are finely crafted with award-winning designs. Most homes are full brick with a few homes have stone and fiber cement exteriors. Lots begin at ⅓ of an acre and some have over an acre offering plenty of privacy.

Weddington Trace consists of two villages. The Estates and The Preserve. Both have access to the wonderful amenities. They include a pond with two fountains, a Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, kiddie pool with splash area, clubhouse, tennis courts, playground, and walking trails.

Homes in Weddington Trace are generously proportioned. Most homes are at least 3,000 square feet and top out over 5,000 square feet. These large interiors include spacious gourmet eat-in kitchens, grand master suites, Italian tile, hardwood flooring, his and hers walk-in master closets, guest suites, and much more. Many homes have a third story, either finished or unfinished providing additional living space or storage. Many homes even have outdoor kitchens, firepits, decks, patios or water features so you can make the most of the beautiful setting.

Children in Weddington Trace are currently zoned for top rated Union County schools. New Town Elementary, Cuthbertson Middle and Cuthbertson High School are all top rated according to Carolina School Hub. These schools are all within 3 miles of Weddington Trace. There are also many private schools in the area.

In the last 12 months, 11 homes have sold in Weddington Trace. They had an average price of $481,727. All had between 3 and 5 bedrooms and at least 2 and a half baths. The price range for these homes was $347,000 at the low end and $627,500 at the high end.

Six homes are currently listed for sale in Weddington Trace. The list prices range from $464,900 to $559,900. Square footages range from 3,568 to 4,545.

If you’re looking for a high quality home in a relaxed neighborhood, close to everything, with great schools, amenities, and low Union County taxes, Weddington Trace is the place. Waxhaw is a desireable community and Weddington Trace is much more affordable than many other luxury neighborhoods without cutting any corners.

If you would like to view a listing in Weddington Trace or have any questions, give us a call at (704) 525-4045. You can also view listings on our website here.

Timeless style in Blakeney Greens

For timeless style with attention to detail and true craftsmanship, look no further than Blakeney Greens in coveted Ballantyne. The architecture may be a throwback, but the details are all modern. The neighborhood is part of a 270 acre mixed-use community at the corner of Rea Road and Ardrey Kell Road. There are medical practices, a church, childcare center, greenways, wetlands, walking trails, playgrounds, shops, and more to explore making a true village feel.

Blakeney Greens contains 365 single family homes and townhomes built in the early 2000’s by Saussy Burbank builders. Blakeney Greens was built to have a great community feel with front porches as features on all of the homes. Wide sidewalks encourage neighbors to get to know each other. There are also many amenities including greenways, two parks, walking trails, landscaped common areas, shopping, office spaces, pool, pedestrian friendly areas and more. An active homeowner’s association in Blakeney Greens takes care of all of the common areas and also organizes community events throughout the year.

Location is key for Blakeney Greens. Homes here are within walking distance of Blakeney Shopping Center. Stonecrest Shopping Center and Ballantyne Village are 2 miles away. There is convenient access to I-485 for a quick trip to Uptown Charlotte or the airport.

Homes in Blakeney Greens have great features. Most have hardwood flooring at least of the main floor. Kitchens are generously sized and most have eat in areas, stainless appliances, and are open to family rooms. Most home have between 3 and 4 bedrooms and between 2.5 and 3.5 bathrooms. Single-family homes typically have between 1,800 and 3,000 square feet and have rear entry two car garages. Yards are small and manageable. In the past year the average sales price for a home in Blakeney Greens was $352,438. Townhomes typically are less expensive and smaller units are available for under $200,000. 

Children in Blakeney Greens attend top rated public schools. Current zoning is for Hawk Ridge Elementary School, Community House Middle School, and Ardrey Kell High School. Please confirm school assignments if they are of concern for your family. There are also many private school options nearby.

If you’re looking for a home with southern charm with a Pottery Barn feel to the interior, Blakeney Greens is the place for you. Give us a call and we can set up a tour of a home for you, (704) 525-4045. You can also view homes in Blakeney Greens on our website here.

Spotlight: Rea Woods

Rea Woods Clubhouse

Tucked just off Pineville-Matthews Road in South Charlotte is the small community of Rea Woods. This fantastic area is home to around 150 homes built by John Weiland. These all brick homes are stately and have great attention to detail.

Built mostly from the mid 1990’s to 2000, homes in Rea Woods enjoy a peaceful setting while being close to all the conveniences. Located between Carmel Road and Rea Road off Highway 51 has you just minutes away from SouthPark, the Arboretum, Pineville, Piper Glen, Stonecrest, and Ballantyne. A commute to Uptown Charlotte should take around 25 minutes. The airport is also just around 25 minutes away from easy access to I-485.

Besides great shopping, dining, and entertainment, there are lots of opportunities for fitness, recreation and outdoor activities nearby and in Rea Woods. McAlpine Creek Greenway is about 5 miles away and offers walking, jogging and biking trails. There are also many nearby parks, country clubs and golf courses.

The Rea Woods community contains a pool, baby pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, and children’s playground. These amenities are managed by the active homeowner’s association. Besides these common areas, the association coordinates events for all ages throughout the year.

Rea Woods is also connected to neighboring Challis Farm so there are plenty of walkable streets and safe streets for kids to ride around on bikes.

Rea Woods is currently zoned for award winning McAlpine Elementary School, South Charlotte Middle School and South Mecklenburg High School. Please verify school assignments as they are subject to change. There are also many private school options nearby including Charlotte Country Day.

Homes in Rea Woods are typically 2 or 3 stories and some have full basements as well. Garages are either 2 or 3 car with lots of storage. Most homes have hardwood floors on the main level. Built-ins and extensive mouldings are the norm. Rooms are generously sized in flowing floor-plans. Homes here are grand in scale with most between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet.

Lots in Rea Woods are large and have well tended landscaping. Most are at least a quarter acre and some are up to three-quarters of an acre. Trees are large and provide lots of shade. Many homes in Rea Woods take advantage of the outdoors and have outside living spaces or even outdoor kitchens.

In the past year, only 9 homes sold in Rea Woods for an average price of $575,389. This lack of turnover means that there are usually many people trying to get a coveted home here. If you would like to own a home in Rea Woods or another neighborhood in Charlotte, give us a call at (704) 525-4045. You can also view homes in Rea Woods on our website here.

Spotlight: Weston Glen

Just across the road from Community House Middle School in Ballantyne sits Weston Glen. Built by Pulte homes, Weston Glen is within walking distance from schools and within a 3 mile radius of great shopping, fitness, dining, entertainment at Blakeney or in Ballantyne.

Weston Glen sits off Community House Road, between Providence Road West and Ardrey Kell Road. This convenient location makes getting anywhere a breeze due to easy access to I-485. Ballantyne Country Club and Piper Glen are close by as is the Morrison Family YMCA.

Community amenities in Weston Glen include a pool, baby pool, clubhouse, playground, landscaped common areas, and walkable streets with sidewalks. The community has a homeowner’s association that is active and plans events for all ages throughout the year.   

Homes in Weston Glen are mostly two story with 2 car garages. Most homes have 4 or more bedrooms and 2.5 or more bathrooms. Square footages for homes here start around 2,500 and some have over 3,000.  

Interior features in Weston Glen typically include:

  • Crown moulding
  • Trey ceilings
  • Chair rail moulding
  • Large eat-in kitchens with islands
  • Large master suites
  • Butler’s pantries
  • Outdoor living areas

Children in Weston Glen attend top rated schools including Elon Park Elementary, Community House Middle, and Ardrey Kell High Schools. All three schools are top rated by Carolina School Hub. There are also many private school options in the area.

There are currently three homes for sale in Weston Glen with two already under contract. Prices tend to range from $320,000 to $410,000 and typically sell quickly. This desireable neighborhood could be your next home.

If you are interested in touring a home in Weston Glen, give us a call at (704) 525-4045. We would love to discuss your needs and create a custom plan for your homebuying journey. You can also view homes in Weston Glen on our website here.

Waxhaw Revitalizing Rodman-Heath mill as Cotton Flats

Waxhaw has another landmark that is adding to the charm of the community. DHD Ventures has rescued the old Rodman-Heath Mill building and is revitalizing it into a new community called Cotton Flats. Rodman-Heath Mill used to be the largest employer in the area, but the mill has not been used commercially in 70 years. The reuse of this historic structure will continue the work that has been done in Waxhaw’s town center.

This project has been in the works for quite a while. It was announced back in 2015, but it is finally underway. Cotton Flats will include 63 apartments and 10,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.

Plan for Cotton Flats due to open mid-summer

DHD Ventures will be keeping much of the history and many of the unique features of the 119 year old building. A restaurant will anchor the space with a Neapolitan theme and will offer craft beer. Other retailers are yet to be determined.

Apartments in Cotton Flats will be either one or two bedrooms and will contain many luxury features. There will also be many amenities including a pool, dog park, and outdoor kitchen(s). The project is expected to be completed and ready for move in by July 4th weekend or before.

The development at Cotton Flats is particularly significant because no new apartments have been built in Waxhaw in the last ten years. There has been so much growth in the single-family market here that apartments need to catch up. Waxhaw is also looking to add to it’s commercial tax base by attracting new businesses. If Waxhaw is going to compete with surrounding towns, people need to see it as a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The population of Waxhaw (per census data) has been steadily increasing from 2,625 in 2000 to 13,495 in 2015. This growth has done nothing to disrupt the charm of the small town. Revitalizing these historic structures helps keep the character of the area. This is great for current homeowners as property values keep increasing. In fact, Union County homes sold in the past 90 days have averaged $326,391 selling on average for 98% of list price.

If you are interested in a home in the Waxhaw area, call us at (704) 525-4045. You can also view listings on our website here.

Real Estate News Around Charlotte

Housing Permits

There has been an Increase in housing permits in the Charlotte region over the last year according to The Market Edge. The Market Edge is a marketing research company that tracks residential building permits in several Southeastern regions. This is positive news, but we are not yet at levels seen in 2015.

Overall there was 9% growth in the entire Charlotte region. There were some counties that saw larger growth than others. Lincoln, Stanley, and Rowan counties had the largest growth. Cabarrus, York and Lancaster counties were the only counties with fewer new housing permits.

Mecklenburg County had the most new building permits for homes over $400,000. They had 487 of them, a 36.4% rise over 2015.

 

Zoning Changes

Rendering of the proposed Foxcroft City Homes

There have been many zoning changes on the docket for City Council, but none quite so contentious as Foxcroft City Homes. This proposed residential development is seeking a rezoning from R-3 to UR-2 conditional. R-3 allows three single-family units per acre. UR-2 allows denser, attached residential development.

Neighbors have mobilized against the development on Sharon Lane between Providence Road and Heathmoor Lane. They are afraid the zoning change could set a precedent for high density development in an area of single-family homes.

The proposed homes are said to be targeted at empty nesters looking to downsize. Neighborhood residents question this assertion as the homes are going to start at 3,400 square feet with a price point around $1 million. There is also no age cut off for residents so the target of empty nesters has been called into question.

A third city council hearing on this matter may settle it once and for all. The property will be developed, but it remains to be see if it will be single-family homes on two cul-de-sacs or if the zoning change goes through to allow 24 townhomes in 12 buildings.

 

If you are interested in new construction in the Charlotte area, call us at (704) 525-4045. We can help you find just the right property for your needs. You can also view listings on our website here.

Luxury Living at Cottages on Providence

Construction is almost completed on a luxury townhome development at the corner of Providence Road and Providence Drive. Named Cottages on Providence, these homes are grand, yet homey. Two completed units are currently on the market, and 4 more are in the finishing stages of construction, but the remaining 13 units have been sold. There has been great interest in these homes due to great location, luxury features, and old Charleston styling.

Located in Eastover at the edge of Myers Park and Cotswold, Cottages on Providence is convenient to everything. A quick trip down Wendover Road to Sharon Road will have you at SouthPark Mall in minutes. Going the other direction, Uptown Charlotte is only 15 minutes away making for an easy commute.

Built with nature in mind, these homes have abundant natural light and have design flow that invites you to private gardens. Transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces were carefully crafted so there is flow, while maintaining distinct spaces. Natural building materials such as cedar shake shingles and brick are in keeping with the surrounding neighborhoods.

Unique features of the homes in Cottages on Providence include:

  • Side porch entries, and covered porches or terraces with ceiling fans.
  • Master suites on the main level
  • Open floorplans with living, dining, and kitchens open to large private courtyards with available hookup for gas grill units
  • 3 bedroom with den or 4 bedroom floor plans
  • Extensive landscaping
  • Gas lantern exterior light fixtures and iron balconies
  • Real wood shutters with iron brackets
  • Two car garages with trellises over carriage style doors
  • Designated guest parking as well as street parking
  • Private drive off of Providence Road

There are also many energy efficient features in the homes at Cottages on Providence. For example, energy efficient windows, programmable thermostats, rain gardens, energy efficient appliances, hardwood flooring and more.

Interior finishes at Cottages on Providence include extensive millwork, custom built-ins, chef’s kitchens, granite counters, custom closets, steam showers, and much more. The two move in ready homes won’t last long as there has been much demand. Prices start at $895,000.

If you are interested in a home in Cottages on Providence, give us a call at (704) 525-4045 and we can schedule a time for you to tour one of these fabulous homes. If you would like to view these homes on our website, click here.

Check out Fort Mill’s Ashford On The Water

If you’re looking for an elegant executive home with a short commute to Uptown Charlotte, look no further than Ashford on the Water in Fort Mill, SC. This small community is convenient to I-77, has great schools, low SC taxes, and has gorgeous grounds and homes.

To find Ashford on the Water, go South from Charlotte on I-77 for 20 minutes and exit on Gold Hill Road (SC Hwy 460). Head west on Gold Hill Road and turn North on Pleasant Road. Ashford on the Water will be on the left hand side after about a mile.

When you turn into Ashford on the Water, you are first struck by the lush landscaping and large mature trees. Next you begin to see manicured lawns and grand full-brick homes on winding streets, some with cul-de-sacs. Homes have either a 2 or 3 car garage, mostly side-load. Many of these homes have beautiful views overlooking the two large ponds that give the neighborhood its name. Lots average a third of an acre, but with the hilly terrain, can seem larger.

Homes in Ashford on the Water were mostly built within the last 10-15 years. They are typically around 3,500 square feet and have 3 or 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Some homes even feature basements. Many homes here contain grand staircases, coffered and trey ceilings, custom built-ins, wainscotting, butler’s pantries, outdoor living areas, media rooms, bonus rooms, sumptuous master baths with soaking tubs and oversized showers. Many also feature in-ground irrigation, security systems, large open kitchens, built-in desks, sound systems and more.

Living in Fort Mill means you are close to Fort Mill YMCA, Fort Mill Library, Leroy Springs Recreation Complex, Anne Springs Close Greenway, Knights baseball, Carowinds Theme Park, beautiful golf courses, and more. There is plenty of shopping, grocery stores, local shops, dining, and fitness all within a 5 minute drive.

Ashford on the Water is currently zoned for great Fort Mill public schools. Pleasant Knoll Elementary School, Springfield Middle School, and Nation Ford High School are all ranked 10 out of 10 by Carolina School Hub.

In the past year, homes in Ashford on the Water have sold for an average price of $379,100. There is currently one home on the market, a 4 bedroom, 3 bath with 3,683 square feet, listed for $425,000.

If you are would like to view the currently listed home in Ashford on the Water or would like us to contact you as soon as a new listing comes on the market, call us at (704) 525-4045. If you would like to set up a search on our website, click here.

Spotlight: Montford

Tucked in between Madison Park, Myers Park, and SouthPark, is the small but hip neighborhood of Montford. The name is not quite official, but it is unique enough to need a name. Though small, it is mighty in shopping, entertainment, nightlife, and great homes.

Montford is located around the intersection of E. Woodlawn Road and Park Road. Park Road Shopping Center is on the Northeast corner and anchors the area. Park Road Shopping Center is home to longtime favorites Sir Edmond Halley’s and Blackhawk Hardware. You can get your hair cut, pick up a pizza, then catch a movie all in one place. The Southeast corner is home to Park Towne Village with more shopping and dining choices. There are also more retail stores, nightlife locations, and restaurants on Montford Drive including Good Food, the Roasting Company, and a bowling alley/sports tavern. There is so much going on in Montford that parking is at a premium every night.

Behind Park Road Shopping Center is the entrance for the Little Sugar Creek Greenway. This extensive park, when completed, will begin at Cordelia Park on the north side of Charlotte and connect all the way to the South Carolina state line. This 20 mile trail is great for hiking, biking, running or walking.

The original homes in the Montford area are mostly small brick ranches. Many have original hardwood floors and unique details like telephone nooks. Some have recently been upgraded and it is not unusual to find homes added on to or replaced with new homes. Lot sizes tend to be around a quarter to a third of an acre.

In addition, it was announced today that a large multi-family project is going to be built in the Montford area. This large project, called Crescent Montford, is located at the old home of Pfeiffer University.  This 5 acre site is slated to become 337 apartments and 17,500 square feet of retail. Crescent Montford is located at the corner of Park Road and Mockingbird Lane.

If you are interested in a home in the Montford area, give us a call at (704) 525-4045. You can also view homes on our website here.