Triangle Living

If you're looking for a fun summertime activity, look no further than one of the many beautiful botanical gardens in the Triangle. Walking through a garden can help you relax and get some fresh air. Plus, it's a great educational activity to do with the kids. In fact, our real estate agents often visit local gardens to come up with new ideas for their own yards. Here are five botanical gardens you should visit in the Triangle this summer:

1. JC Raulston Arboretum - 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606
   Explore 10 whole acres of florals and plants at the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University. This nationally recognized Arboretum is comprised of 20 different themed gardens with a total of 5,000 plants on display. There are also several educational events, games, and food trucks around on the weekends. A weekend trip to this beautiful area is fun for the whole family. You also might like to check out some nearby Raleigh homes for sale. 
   
   
2. North Carolina Botanical Garden - 100 Old Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27517
   Learn all about North Carolina's native plants at the North Carolina Botanical Garden, a conservation area owned and operated by the University of North Carolina. Experience the restorative powers of this beautiful area, which consists of over 1,100 acres of gardens. You can also enjoy a vast array of programs and activities like gardening workshops, educational walks, and summer camps, all within a short distance of Chapel Hill homes for sale. 
   
   
3. Juniper Level Botanic Garden - 9241 Sauls Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603
   Take a refreshing walk through the 28-acre Juniper Level Botanic Garden with a diverse display of beautiful flora. Want to take some plants home? Shop at the attached Plant Delights Nursery before you go home. Garden tours are by appointment only, or you can visit one of N.C. State's open garden days (usually one weekend each month).
   
   
4. Sarah P. Dukes Gardens - 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC 27708
   Stroll through 5 miles and 55 acres of beautifully landscaped space at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. This property, which is located on Duke University's campus, consists of well-maintained walkways and paths, making it easy to take in the gorgeous scenery. The park is open daily from 8 am to dusk and is located near several Durham homes for sale.
     
5. The Raleigh Rose Garden - 301 Pogue St, Raleigh, NC 27607
   The Raleigh Rose Garden provides an excellent opportunity to take a nature walk or improve your photography skills. It's one of three accredited rose gardens in the state of North Carolina. You'll find serene landscaping and an extensive display of roses in all different colors. The park is free to the public, and it's open from dawn to dusk 365 days a year. 

Beautiful scenery is just one of the many great things about living in the Triangle. Thinking about moving here soon? Our team can help! Contact us today to check out some listings and learn more about the area.

When you're looking at the best of Raleigh homes for sale, it's not out of the ordinary to want a refreshing iced coffee to keep your energy going strong. Our real estate agents are big fans of an iced brew, with or without an accompanying donut or sandwich – and you have many options.

Aside from all the familiar chain restaurants you know and love, you'll also find many unique coffee shops, bakeries, and roasteries here in the Triangle. It's just one more part of this innovative area's unique startup culture, which has helped introduce the whole nation to ideas born in Raleigh.

Let's drop in and visit with some of your many options in and around Raleigh:

• 42 & Lawrence – 134 East Martin Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
  42 & Lawrence is a historic spot lauded for its tasty and inspiring seasonal beverages – everything from the "Lemon Zing" to the "Eggnog Latte," the "Butterscotch Gingerbread Latte," and the classic "Peppermint Mocha." Any coffee drink on the menu can be served iced, and there's always something new to try. A full selection of cookies, croissants, and more round out the offerings.
  
  
• Sir Walter Coffee – 242 South Main Street, Suite 118, Holly Springs, NC 27540
  With two nearby locations including one near Holly Springs homes for sale, you're never far from the popular Sir Walter Coffee. It's probably best known for "The Walter Raleigh," which mixes in mocha syrup, simple syrup, and cold brew. It is all shaken with a big dollop of heavy cream and silky smooth vanilla. If you just can't get away from work, you can also order your coffee drink of choice for delivery from either the Holly Springs or Raleigh shop.
  
  
• Crema and More – 421 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC 27604
  Found within the palatial, skyline-defining confines of One Bank of America Plaza, Crema and More is the engine that keeps many local business owners going strong. In addition to the chai latte, frappe, hot chocolate, and other favorites, you can enjoy a double scoop of ice cream on a homemade waffle cone or chow down on your choice of more than a dozen delicious deli sandwiches, including vegetarian options.
  
  
• Jubala Coffee – 8450 Honeycutt Road, Raleigh, NC 27615
  Jubala Coffee is available from three Raleigh locations and has made a name for itself with its delectable coffees and expansive menu of sandwiches, sweet biscuits, and waffles. Flash brewing over ice is the house style for iced coffee, and it pairs well with the fruit-based "liege waffles" prepared with special pearl sugar. Hot, pressed sandwiches featuring Boulted Bread will leave you feeling ready for the day.
  
  
• BOLT Drinks and Coffee – 400 East Broad Street, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
  Recently celebrating the grand opening of its new location near Fuquay Varina homes for sale you can find BOLT Drinks and Coffee all throughout the Raleigh area. Aside from the iced coffee, you might wish to try one of BOLT's signature chilled energy drinks. These fruity, flavor-forward concoctions include blends like the blue raspberry and lime "Blue Skies," "Hurricane," "Cyclone," "Volcano," "Wapple Monsoon," and "Triple Threat."

Looking for a home near your favorite cafe? Contact us to learn more about real estate opportunities here in the Triangle.

There is nothing quite like classic Carolina BBQ, and there is no better place to find it than right here in the heart of North Carolina. Raleigh has so many legendary BBQ joints where you can find top-of-the-line pulled pork, brisket, or ribs topped with a classic smoky yet sweet Carolina BBQ sauce.

Our real estate agents are always recommending great BBQ destinations to our clients. Want a taste of what the area has to offer? Check out these local spots!

• The Pit Authentic BBQ - 328 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601
  Dig into some delicious pit-smoked pork or some Texas-style beef brisket at The Pit Authentic BBQ. With delicious meat and tasty sauces served in a renovated 1930s meatpacking warehouse, you can have the true BBQ experience. If you want to live nearby, check out some of these Raleigh homes for sale just a few miles away.
  
  
• Chop Shop BBQ And Grill - 210 E Six Forks Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
  Enjoy huge portions of delicious smoked meat and classic southern cuisine at this low-key BBQ joint. Chop Shop BBQ started as a food truck at the NC State Fairgrounds and turned into one of the very best BBQ restaurants in Raleigh in 2018. Enjoy a signature BBQ sandwich or platter paired with some unique sauces.
  
  
• Big Al's BBQ - 950 Gateway Commons Cir, Wake Forest, NC 27587
  Not only does Big Al's serve some fantastic smoked meats, but they also have some of the most unique flavors of BBQ sauce in Raleigh. Sure, they have all the traditional flavors, but you'll also find peach, blackberry, and even cinnamon barbeque sauce. All-in-all they have over a dozen sauces. Excellent meat and creative sauces combined with friendly service and southern hospitality, and you have one of Raleigh's best BBQ joints.
  
  
• Sam Jones BBQ - 502 W Lenoir St, Raleigh, NC 27601
  You'll find some great wood-fired whole hog BBQ at Sam Jones. This family-owned restaurant serves 7 different BBQ platters, including chopped BBQ, slow-cooked chicken, smoked turkey, and spare ribs. Don't forget to try a piece of their delicious Skylight Inn style cornbread.
  
  
• The Blue Note Grill - 709 Washington St, Durham, NC 27701
  Want to enjoy your BBQ with a side of live music? The Blue Note Grill is the place for you! Situated in the downtown Durham historic Central Park District, you'll enjoy fantastic BBQ ribs from their full-service restaurant while listening to talented local musicians. Both the food and the venue itself have won numerous awards, making it a local favorite near Durham homes for sale.
  
  
• Bullock's BBQ - 3330 Quebec Dr, Durham, NC 27705
  When a restaurant has been around since the 1950's you know it has to be good! Offering fantastic BBQ dishes for years, Bullock's BBQ has perfected its craft and has become a local staple in the Durham area. See what all the hype is about and order from their fantastic takeout menu. Or have them cater your next event. 

Easy access to great BBQ dishes is just one of the many great things about living in the Raleigh area. Contact us for more local recommendations.

The Triangle is known as one of the places where the future is made. Raleigh homes for sale have convenient access to a diverse economy with a vibrant tech scene. But the area is also steeped in plenty of rich history, reaching back through the entire American story.

Our real estate agents are always glad to show you everything Raleigh has to offer. Here are some of the historic homes many people choose to visit when they explore the Triangle:

• Borden Building – 820 Clay Street, Raleigh, NC 27605
  The Borden Building is among the only surviving remnants of what was once the Methodist Home for Children. Erected in 1900, the Borden Building itself acted as home to the superintendent. Later, it was converted to serve hundreds of children over the years. Since its purchase by the City of Raleigh in 1982, it and adjoining Fred Fletcher Park have been an oasis of tranquility in the midst of an urban setting.
  
  
• Heck-Andrews House – 309 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
  The Heck-Andrews House has been praised by historians as one of the finest surviving examples of Second Empire architecture. At the crossroads of many other key sites, including the lieutenant governor's office, it was completed in 1872 and occupied for more than a century as a private residence. It was vacant until 2014, the year of a major renovation, and is now open to public visitors.
  
  
• Haywood Hall House and Gardens – 211 N. Bern Place, Raleigh, NC 27601
  Haywood Hall House and Gardens is a testament to the life of John Haywood, the first elected treasurer of North Carolina. A frame house in the prominent Federal style, it is now the oldest house on an original site anywhere within Raleigh's city limits. It has a unique collection of family portraits, a variety of original furniture, and a permanent collection of antique dolls. Admission is always free.
  
  
• Joel Lane Museum House – 160 South Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC 27603
  The Joel Lane Museum House is noteworthy as the oldest home within Wake County: It dates back to 1769. The spot is heralded as the "Birthplace of North Carolina's Capital" thanks to a fateful agreement by Joel Lane to sell 1,000 acres to the state for the construction of official buildings and infrastructure. Today, the site offers two other historic buildings and a gift shop.
  
  
• L.L. Polk House – 537 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27604-1119
  L.L. Polk House features a style that has been called "gingerbread Gothic." Dating to 1890, it was built by one of the most prominent men in the state, a former part-owner of the Raleigh News and Observer. Tours are available by appointment only and will shed light on the life of Col. L.L. Polk as well as the storied history of the property itself.
  
  
• North Carolina Executive Mansion – 200 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
  North Carolina Executive Mansion sits just steps from the Heck-Andrews house listed above. Built from local materials, it has been the official home of North Carolina's governors since 1891. It was once lauded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as "the most beautiful governor's residence interior" in the nation. Tour reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.

Ready to start touring homes for sale in the area? Contact us today.

Raleigh homes for sale are right in the middle of some of the nation's best St. Patrick's Day festivities, and you're invited!

Celebrated on March 17th every year, St. Patrick's Day commemorates the legend of St. Patrick driving the snakes out of Ireland. As Irish immigrant communities became established back in the 1700s, they often embraced the holiday as a celebration of their shared heritage, which others have joined in on today.

Raleigh also enjoys a festive mood for the whole week of St. Patrick's Day. There are street fairs, live music, and plenty of delicious food from local restaurants and caterers.

Let's take a closer look at all you can expect to enjoy this March:

• Raleigh St. Patrick's Day Parade – See Website for Location Details in Raleigh, NC
  Kicking off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, Raleigh St. Patrick's Day Parade is the region's largest. Launching from Lane Street as in previous years, it will delight audiences of all ages with music and displays from for-profit and nonprofit organizations around Raleigh. Planned to go on "rain or shine," the Parade typically ends around 11:30. This will be its first return after two years of cancellations!
  
  
• Charcuterie Design 101 St. Paddy's Day at Macgregor Downs Country Club – 430 Saint Andrews Lane, Cary, NC 2751
  Hosted at the historic Bond Brothers Beer Company, Holiday Platter Design is an event conceived by a pair of local gourmands and entrepreneurs called Grazin' Gals. This fun and friendly event takes place only on Wednesday, March 16, and guests must purchase a ticket in advance. The Gals themselves will introduce their guests to the art of laying out a seasonal charcuterie display with spring flair and all the trimmings. One $70 entry provides you with all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to produce your own board with a distinctive Irish theme – all just minutes from Cary homes for sale.
  
  
• Pot of Gold 5K – 621 North First Avenue, Knightdale, NC 27545
  Want to make a positive difference for local charities this St. Patrick's Day? The Pot of Gold 5K may be just what you're looking for. Taking place just down the street from Knightdale homes for sale, it will benefit good causes with a 5K race starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 19. This Fifth Annual event invites you to run or walk with your neighbors. A $60 entry fee includes a shirt, finisher's medal, and other swag. Proceeds will go to benefit Northside Compassion Project transitional housing for those in need.
  
  
• Leprechaun Dash 5K and 10K – See Website for Location Details in Pittsboro, NC
  Touted as the First Annual event of its kind, the Leprechaun Dash 5K and 10K may soon be established as a local tradition near Pittsboro homes for sale. Set to commence at 8:30 on March 12, it will be a fun and challenging course suitable for all kinds of runners. Prizes will be on hand by age group and will also commemorate the best leprechaun costume. Earnings will support Chatham kids through the YMCA.

Contact us to find out more about events and opportunities in Raleigh.

When you think of a technology powerhouse you probably don't think of North Carolina first – but maybe you should. The Raleigh-Durham area, also known as the "Research Triangle," is a major metropolis of more than two million people bolstered by leading universities and much more.

Because of the astounding research output of local educational institutions, many top businesses have been expanding into the area or moving there altogether. 

Today, with costs greatly increasing in many areas, companies that may once have set up in New York or California are examining their options here. Now is the time to select Raleigh homes for sale and to take full advantage of the many opportunities the area holds in store.

Raleigh-Durham is in Position to Explode in Size and Influence by 2025

Hatch IT, a recruiting company that helps technology startups recruit young professionals, has estimated that Raleigh-Durham could grow to become the #2 biggest technology hub on the U.S. East Coast by 2025. This big claim is backed up by some equally big trends and facts you won't want to overlook:

• Convenience and Cost in Raleigh-Durham Remain Enticing to Technology Workers
  No one wants to pay thousands of dollars commuting to their job every year, especially in a mostly remote world. Raleigh-Durham's cost of living has been measured at around $2,743 for a single person, making it nearly half the cost of living in the Washington, D.C. area. Public transit is more robust than in many cities, and Raleigh consistently ranks as one of the top 50 most walkable U.S. cities.
  
  
• The Community Has a Long History of Collaborating with Technology Startups
  For decades now, attracting technology talent has been a major element of Raleigh-Durham's success. To this very day, the area has nearly as many qualified software engineers as in much larger and more famous cities, including the nation's capital. Both state and city continue to partner with technology firms and invest in creating a favorable business atmosphere that gives rise to competitive wages.
  
  
• Operational Costs for Businesses Are Among the Lowest of All Major Options
  Cost of living, leasing space, and commute times all matter when it comes to fostering the top tech talent. Raleigh-Durham offers a prime geographic position along with strong tax and other incentives. This accelerates the growth of new businesses and has even brought in Fortune 500 firms.
  
  
• New Infrastructure is Continuing to Expand Opportunities in Raleigh-Durham
  While many cities are falling behind in infrastructure, Raleigh-Durham continues to develop in surprising and intriguing ways. The housing market is robust and has a wide variety of options to meet different budget considerations. It is serviced by Raleigh-Durham International Airport, making a trip abroad simple, and it even has a growing number of award-winning restaurants.
  
  
• Raleigh-Durham is Top Tier Compared to Other Burgeoning Would-Be Tech Hubs
  Raleigh-Durham isn't the only major metroplex in contention to become the newest growth area for the technology sector – but it may well be in the best shape to realize its ambitions. Other metro areas consistently lag behind Raleigh-Durham in quality of life metrics relevant to both workers and businesses.

The Triangle is waiting and our real estate agents can help you discover all it has to offer. Contact us to find out more or get started with your Raleigh-Durham home search.

There's never a shortage of entertaining activities around the Triangle, and 2022 is looking like no exception. Mark your calendar and join our real estate agents at these lively concerts, festivals, and shows. 

• Alton Brown Live: Beyond the Eats - DPAC, 123 Vivian St., Durham, NC 27701
  If you're a fan of Food Network, you're already familiar with Alton Brown's quirky and engaging approach to the science of food. Now he's taking his show on the road near Durham homes for sale with Alton Brown Live: Beyond the Eats. This unique culinary variety show is full of comedy, music, cooking demos, and audience participation. You'll gain a whole new appreciation of the food on your dinner table. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 20, and tickets are $45.
  
  
• NC International Festival - State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607
  It's a small world, after all, when you can celebrate the culture of more than 50 countries at the NC International Festival. The two-day event is packed with music, dancing, and food representing the traditions of the various countries. There will also be kids' activities and artisans displaying their handmade crafts. Take the whole family to the State Fairgrounds, just minutes from Raleigh homes for sale, on the weekend of April 2-3. Hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5-$8.
  
  
• Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival - Bond Park, 801 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513
  There are many reasons we look forward to spring, and the Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is one of them! Taking place on Saturday, April 30, Bond Park will be filled with local artists and vendors, live entertainment, and activities for the kids to enjoy. This annual event has become a favorite over the years and is close to many fantastic Cary homes for sale.
  
  
• Imagine Dragons - PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607
  Catch one of the hottest rock bands of the last decade when Imagine Dragons bring their Mercury World Tour to PNC Arena. The group dominated the charts, taking the top three spots on Billboard's list of Top Rock Songs of the 2010s and eight in the top 50. Expect a setlist heavy on selections from Mercury - Act 1, the band's recently released fifth album, recorded with iconic producer Rick Rubin. Imagine Dragons take the stage on Thursday, February 10, with Canadian singer-songwriter Grandson opening the show at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $34, with VIP packages available.
  
  
• Postcards from Ireland - DPAC, 123 Vivian St., Durham, NC 27701
  Originally intended to be a one-off event, Celtic Woman's PBS special in 2005 turned the ensemble into a worldwide sensation. Postcards from Ireland showcases the group's spellbinding repertoire of classic and original songs that bridge the remarkable history of Irish music. Irish dancers, bagpipers, and a traditional Celtic band add further layers of delight to the visual and sonic experience. The show is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $43.

Life in the Triangle is never dull. Need experienced help with your real estate needs? Contact us at Howard Perry and Walston to learn more.

Many buyers looking into Raleigh homes for sale are attracted by updated appliances that make life more convenient. Upgrading your home's appliances before selling is a great way to increase your home's value and spark interest among potential buyers. Our real estate agents have reviewed the most exciting appliance upgrades for 2022 and listed them below.

• Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances
  Stainless steel refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and stoves create a modern and hygienic look in the kitchen. Stainless steel is timeless and will help your home appeal to buyers for years to come. You might want to upgrade all the appliances simultaneously for a uniform and attractive finish.
  
  If you want a different look from the traditional shiny silver, Samsung, LG, and KitchenAid feature black stainless-steel appliances. Pair the updated kitchen appliances with quartz countertops for a luxurious appeal.
  
  
• Built-in Stoves
  Homebuyers love the streamlined look of built-in stoves. In addition to the seamless design, built-in stoves allow easy access as they are built at waist height. Homebuyers can envision a much simpler cooking process as they tour a kitchen with these kinds of stoves. Look out for self-cleaning functions, flat tops, and other features that simplify kitchen activities.
  
  
• Tankless Water Heater
  Tankless water heaters don't have tanks because they heat water on demand. A tankless water heater is an excellent way to boost your home's efficiency and resale value. In homes that use up to 41 gallons of hot water daily, these heaters are 24-34% more energy efficient in comparison to traditional water heaters.
  
  A longer lifespan is another benefit of tankless water heaters. Mineral-laden water corrodes conventional heaters, which homeowners have to replace every several years.
  
  
• Smart Thermostat
  Smart renovations are on the rise among homeowners, thanks to the conveniences offered by smart appliances. A Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostat lets people remotely adjust their cooling and heating needs. You can control your desired settings via a phone or tablet, no matter where you are.
  
  Over time, the smart thermostat learns your schedule and adjusts the temperature as needed. Many homeowners appreciate smart thermostats for improved energy efficiency and reduced energy bills.
  
  
• Energy-Efficient Washers
  Your old washing machine may be the culprit for those puzzling high utility bills. In contrast, an energy-efficient washer uses less energy and water and even less detergent. Rather than filling up the machine with water, efficient washers only use a small amount of water that sits at the tub's bottom.
  
  Then, the machine tumbles clothes horizontally for cleaning and rinsing. This motion also preserves your delicates from damage. Seek out the EnergyStar logo in potential models when upgrading your old washer. To appeal to buyers, even more, consider upgrading your washer and dryer at the same time in a matching set. 

These appliance updates will help make your home more comfortable in 2022 or help you appeal to buyers looking in the Raleigh area. Kitchen appliances are the most important to buyers, while energy-efficient equipment draws crowds of eager buyers. Contact us to discover the upgrades that interest homebuyers and learn more about the real estate market.

Time with friends and family is an exciting part of the holiday season. Was your home volunteered for this year's holiday gathering? While hosting an event can be stressful, our real estate agents recommend following these tips to be a great host this holiday season. 

1. Make a List
   When you have a slew of things to do, it's easy to forget an ingredient or neglect one of your chores. A to-do list is essential when you're hosting a holiday gathering. If you're hosting multiple events, consider purchasing a dry erase list. This lets you keep the tasks that you generally always need to complete before an event (so you won't have to rewrite the list each time) and add tasks that are unique to a specific gathering. 

2. Prep Your Food Ahead of Time
   Even a simple food spread can take hours to make when you're cooking for a lot of people. Alleviate the stress of food preparation by making what you can ahead of time. Baked goods, dips, soups, stews, and casseroles all keep well and can be prepared the day before. 

3. Pick the Right Set-Up
   The setup for your gathering should make it easy for guests to get their food and beverages without crowding everyone in the same spot. It should also provide ample opportunity for conversation. An option suited to many homes is to put the drink table, main course table, and an appetizer/dessert table in separate spaces. Set your drink table up in your living room or foyer. Most people will want drink refills throughout the evening; this makes it convenient for them to grab a beverage while minimizing lines and crowding. Your main food table can go in the kitchen. Depending on your home's configuration, set the dessert/appetizer table up in the dining room or another area in your living room. Check that each table has everything guests need.

4. Avoid Cleaning Areas That Don't Matter
   A tidy host isn't necessarily a good host. Don't spend time cleaning areas that your guests are unlikely to visit. For example, the doors to your childrens' bedrooms and laundry room can be closed to conceal any messes. It's reasonable to get your deck and front porch tidy and inviting, but don't stress about organizing your garage or picking up the yard. Have a large empty bin on hand to quickly remove clutter and out-of-place items the day of your event. A clutter bin also works well when you're adding your home to the list of Raleigh homes for sale and you need to quickly clean up before a showing.  

5. Set the Mood
   Sound and scent instantly change the atmosphere in your home. Play seasonal music (consider instrumental versions if you're concerned about the noise level) and light a festive candle to create an inviting environment for your guests. 

6. Make Time for Your Self
   Give yourself a dedicated chunk of time the day of your gathering to get ready. You don't want to worry about greeting your guests with wet hair and an unkempt outfit. Instead, stop your preparations a couple of hours before your event to dress and freshen up so that you feel confident and put together when your guests arrive. 

7. Thoroughly Stock Your Bathroom
   Grab a basket to stow bathroom essentials for your guests, like toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, air freshener, mouthwash, extra hand towels, hand soap, and lotion. If something runs out during your party, your guests can quickly find what they need without rifling through your cabinets and drawers.

Want a home with more space for your holiday events? Contact us today to start your search!

The weather might be getting cooler, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy fresh-picked produce. In fact, our real estate agents always recommend visiting the local farmers markets this time of year. From pumpkins and potatoes to squash, zucchini, and corn, there are many delicious vegetables in season right now. 

Whether you're just starting to look at Raleigh homes for sale or you're already a resident here, you'll want to get to know the best places to get your hands on the latest harvests. 

• Stone Ridge Farm Market: 480 Temple Johnson Rd., Zebulon, NC 27597
  A family-operated business, the Stone Ridge Farm Market is a great place to pick up your fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies. Even better, if you can't make it to the market, you can have them delivered right to your door! Delivery is free if you live within 10 miles of the market. If you've been looking at Zebulon homes for sale, make sure you check them out before you head to the corner grocery store. 

• Western Wake Farmers Market: 280 Town Hall Dr., Morrisville NC 27560
  The Western Wake Farmers Market is a nonprofit organization that was formed by a group of moms looking for a way to feed their children fresh, locally grown food. You'll find a wide selection of vendors here selling fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, and more! They're open on Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm through November and then from 9:30 to 12 in December through March. They'll also have live music each week through the end of November. Plus you can get a look at some of the beautiful Morrisville homes for sale that are located near the market.  

• Cary Downtown Farmers Market: 135 W. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511
  Have you been thinking about moving into one of the great Cary homes for sale? If so, you'll definitely want to get to know the Cary Downtown Farmers Market. It has been a favorite among locals since 1996.
  
  You'll find lots of great vendors here selling everything from produce, meat, and dairy to gifts, crafts, and prepared foods. The traditional market is open on Saturdays from 8 am to noon through the end of October. After that, the winter market runs from 9 am through noon from November through March. 
  
  
• Apex Farmers Market: 112 Saunders St., Apex, NC 27502
  Located in the heart of downtown not far from some of the best Apex homes for sale, the Apex Farmers Market offers a wide selection of products. This includes seafood, meat, eggs, preserves, jams, and jellies, coffee, candles, soaps, crafts, prepared foods, and more. The market is open on Saturdays from 9 am until noon. They often have live music and entertainment for the kids and the market is also pet-friendly. 

• Holly Springs Farmers Market: 300 W. Ballentine St., Holly Springs, NC 27540
  The Holly Springs Farmers Market has been voted a "best in class" farmers market for several years in a row. In addition to the things you would expect at any farmers market, you'll also find a large range of products including things like fresh cut flowers, mead (honey wine), cold-pressed juices, goat cheese, fudge, candied nuts, and more. This farmers market has also published a handy harvest calendar so you'll have an idea of what you'll find there each time you visit. If you've been looking at Holly Springs homes for sale, you'll be glad to have this incredible venue so close by. 

If you're looking for the perfect home in the Raleigh area, our skilled agents are here to help! Contact us today.