Low Maintenance ~ Move-In Ready ~ 164 Autumn Chapel Road ~ FOR SALE!

While Realtor® Greg Rapp is known for marketing older and historic homes, an old house is not for everyone!  So, with that in mind, you new-house lovers will want to check out Greg's newest listing at 164 Autumn Chapel Road in Salisbury, North Carolina!


Built in 2004, this beautiful, traditional style home sits on a deep, half-acre yard. The reason many new-house lovers choose a newer home over a 100+ year old home is...you guessed it...lower maintenance!  And this home is no exception! This 1900+ square-foot home is completely vinyl sided so you won't be taking a paint brush up any time soon! 

This handsomely shuttered, two-story home sports a wonderful front porch for rocking chairs and sweet tea! The landscaping has been meticulously maintained!

The home has a nicely laid-out kitchen with honey-pine cabinetry, and a bay-windowed breakfast nook overlooking the back yard and nice sun deck.  And while you'll love casual meals in this charming eat-in space...a spacious formal dining room awaits those special dining occasions!

The focal point of the large living room is the beautiful fireplace with traditional mantel piece ~ but a great cable-ready, built-in inset to house a wall-mounted flat screen TV...or to highlight a work of art!

The owners suite, in addition to a cathedral ceiling, features a huge walk in closet, and master bath outfitted with shower, dual sink vanity, and jetted tub.

You'll note a pretty palladian window on the upper floor as you look at the front of the home.  This charming little space makes a great computer room or tiny library/reading room!

Many of the rooms have fresh coats of paint, so 164 Autumn Chapel Road is move-in ready!  You'll love the tucked-away neighborhood that is 'out-of-town', and walking and bicycling friendly. . . but you'll also love how close this home is to Salisbury restaurants, theaters, and shopping!  A favorite place for fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as local butter, cheeses, and pepper bacon, is Father & Son Produce Market....and it's just a short drive away from this Miller-Chase subdivision.

Ready to see this 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home at 164 Autumn Chapel Road for yourself?  

Give Greg Rapp with Wallace Realty a call ~ always available via cell phone at (704) 213-6846 ~ and at your service!

Over an Acre And in City Limits? YES!!

It's not often you find large lots within city limits, but here is the opportunity to own a home with over an acre of yard...yet within the City of Salisbury NC limits so you'll be close to EVERYTHING, and can take advantage of city amenities such as leaf pick-up, AND the city's fiber-optic TV/phone/Internet service. (Salisbury is known as a 'Gig-City' - a 100% fiber optic network called Fibrant provides super-fast city-wide internet up to 10 gigabits per second (GBPS).)  Call Greg Rapp with Wallace Realty, (704) 213-6846, to snatch up this sweet property before someone else does!

Tucked away in the Oakland Heights subdivision that is nestled between E. Innes Street, the major southeast/west corridor through Salisbury, and Bringle Ferry Road, another main road out to the rolling hills of the outlying countryside, is this great little 2-story, 1966 square foot home!

Painted a warm apple green with a circular drive out front, this circa 1949 Post-War home at 1224 Park Avenue is one of the true charmers in the neighborhood. 1224 PARK AVENUE is a 4-bedroom/2-bath home with a wonderful open floor plan. 
The kitchen, dining room, and living room all have a southern exposure, and therefore stream bright sunshine and natural light all day long! The living room, with its deep rich-red wall finish, boasts gleaming wood floors, and a wonderful fireplace with dentil wood mantel and black tile surround, and a 'piano nook' surrounded by built-in shelving - perfect for today's flat screen TV's!

A very nice screened-in side porch just off the formal living room will be a most pleasant place to relax nearly all seasons here...with a little updating.

The sunny kitchen's white cabinets and window trim sparkle against ocean blue walls and a cheerful laminate gold-colored laminate floor (that may be original to this circa 1949 home ~ or may have gone in in the '60s). The present owners installed new counter tops along the cute little breakfast bar. 

You'll enjoy many a fine meal with family and friends in the formal dining room that looks out into the living room through a wide passage, again with that beautiful hardwood floor. The sense of space is really quite remarkable!

The owner's suite and 2nd bedroom on are located on the main floor. The second story houses a large 15' x 18' bedroom and a 15' x 19' recreation room! You'll find the fourth bedroom on the lower level with its own fireplace and exterior door.

And speaking of lower level, a spacious 28' x 25' workshop at 1224 Park Avenue is also in the unfinished portion of the basement, where you'll also find a new RainSoft water purifying system! 

Outside, the 2-car porte-cochere provides loads of space to shelter your vehicles from the elements, and keeps you dry as you load groceries from the car to through the kitchen side-door. The porte-cochere's east wall is actually a wonderful storage area, perfect for bicycles, toys, and garden tools! But if that isn't enough, there is a nice storage shed in the back yard!

And now that we've brought you to the back yard, we're sure you can picture yourself relaxing and entertaining on the wonderful slate patio ~ a great place to dry off and grab a snack after a dip in your above-ground pool!

And we did say this was a 1-acre+ yard! That's right! The approximate acreage at 1224 Park Avenue is 1.35, and yard backs up to a wooded area. Can you say privacy?

Come see what this wonderful Post-War home has to offer. There's been lots of fresh paint, and a new roof in approximately 2010, but may still want a little updates here and there. But because this is such a well-built, solid home, it will be well worth the effort and time.

Don't take our word for it...call Greg Rapp at (704) 213-6846 to see this keeper for yourself!  Make 1224 Park Avenue, Salisbury NC your address in 2016!

1224 Park Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144
MLS #58363
$124,900

Greg Rapp 
Wallace Realty Co. 
704 213 6846 Mobile 
704 636 2021 Office 
www.realestatesalisbury.net 

Condo Living ~ Let Someone Else Fix the Roof & Mow the Lawn!

It's a question that comes up for anyone who’s looking to buy a house, especially in an urban area: Should I buy a condo instead?

For those who don't know, a condominium is like a hybrid between an apartment and a house.

Condos can be low-rise buildings, townhouses, freestanding houses, duplexes, triplexes or “mixed use” buildings, such as condos above offices or store fronts. They can be brand new, re-sell or conversions — that is, buildings that used to be apartments or factories turned into condos.

What makes condos different from freehold houses is that you own your unit but you also share ownership of the land, building and common areas. You share costs with fellow members of your condo association, and the board of directors or a property management company makes the big decisions.

Like a house, you buy a condo and own it outright. If you talk to friends or family members who live in condominiums, you'll quickly find out that many people love the condo life, while some people wish they bought a house instead.

So what are the pros and cons of condos? Here are a few reasons you may be drawn to one:

No yard to mow. This is a big appeal of owning a condo. There will be no mowing because you'll pay dues to a condominium association, which will take care of most of your maintenance needs. For many, it's a relief that you don't need to worry about landscaping, yard maintenance and physical labor activities like snow removal and roof repair. Paying the condo fee is welcome versus worrying about major maintenance.

It’s cheaper than buying a comparable house. Obviously, the cost of a condo versus a house depends on the size of the home, the property values of the neighborhood and the cost of living in the area. But typically, you'll spend less on a condo, especially in higher-cost markets where condos can be the only alternative to high-priced, single-family homes.

Many major costs are shared. By law, a portion of those condo fees goes into a reserve fund. When the property is well managed, this fund covers major repairs like replacing windows and roofing without additional costs to owners. Even when the reserve fund falls short, you’re not in it alone — a “special assessment” will be done and costs will be shared equally among owners.

Customization. Unlike renting, you’re free to paint the walls, put up pictures, and renovate.

There is a sense of community. Plenty of homeowners would say the same thing about their own neighborhood, but condo owners tend to live in much closer proximity than many suburban homeowners, who often have relatively big yards separating them. There are always social moments that occur throughout the day. Whether it be to take the trash out or pick up the mail, there are opportunities that one just doesn't get in a home.

Security. Marketers say condos offer greater security than a free hold home or renting. For one thing, people are more likely to take better care of property they own, and some buildings offer a secure entrance or a doorman. You might feel safer with neighbors on either side, and worry less if you frequently travel. 

Amenities. Some condos offer benefits you won’t see in the average home or apartment building — like a gym, swimming pool, and central club house and party room.

Adapted from an article by Geoff Williams, September 11, 2014, 3 Reasons to Buy a Condo money.usnews.com)

So why all the talk about condominium living?  Because Greg Rapp with Wallace Realty has a new condo listed for under $100,000!  If all the reasons above sound appealing to you...give Greg a call at 704.213.6846 to see the two-story condominium at  817 Mitchell Avenue in Salisbury NC.  This 2-bedroom condo has more of a townhouse look, with a beautiful box-bay window in the living room that is the focal point of the façade.

This condo, in the Littletowne subdivision on the skirts of the popular Fulton Heights neighborhood, offers a good use of space with a large combination dining and kitchen area with tile floors. You'll love the blue and white ceramic tiles on the kitchen walls! A small private rear patio is an ideal outdoor living area for our three seasons of mild outdoor evenings here in North Carolina. The home features a large laundry room, plenty of storage, and a walk-in closet in the main bedroom. And all for just $72,500! 

So if you're ready to have someone else mow the lawn and fix the roof...call Greg Rapp today to see this wonderful home ~ condo style living at 817 Mitchell Avenue, Salisbury NC! (704) 213-6846!


817 Mitchell Avenue
Salisbury NC 28144
$72,500
MLS#58319

Greg Rapp 
Wallace Realty Co. 
704 213 6846 Mobile 
704 636 2021 Office 
www.realestatesalisbury.net 

Under Contract in Seven (7) Days! Is Seven Your Lucky Number?

Greg Rapp, Realtor® with Wallace Realty in Salisbury, North Carolina, listed the beautifully restored Victorian at 424 E. Bank Street in the Brooklyn South Square Historic District for sale on July 7th.

By July 15th, it was under contract.

Greg Rapp can share numerous such success stories!  Well known in the area, Greg is considered the area's expert in marketing and moving historic homes and properties.  

The historic 'Firehouse' in downtown Salisbury, listed by a fellow Wallace Realty agent, went public on day #1. . . and Greg, working a strategic contact plan, had it sold before 7:00am on day #2!

After being an empty building in downtown Salisbury for several years, the old Firehouse is now a thriving business!

Greg Rapp had this super-charming home on Church Street in the West Square Historic District in Salisbury listed on March 25th.  By April 7th, after dual offers and a 'bidding war', Greg had 429 Church Street S. under contract...above asking price.

When a local bank wanted to move properties, they sought Greg Rapp to get it done. Greg listed the fixer-upper home on Caldwell Street on June 25th . . . and by July 14th it was under contract.


The little home on Crawford Street was also listed on June 25th...and Greg had it under contract by July 19th.

These are just a few of the properties real estate agent Greg Rapp with Wallace Realty has turned around to SOLD in the blink of an eye.

Who are you going to call when it's time to sell your house?  (704) 213 6846

Greg Rapp 
Wallace Realty Co. 
704 213 6846 Mobile 
704 636 2021 Office 
www.realestatesalisbury.net 

Winter is a Great Time to Buy or Sell Your House!

Fall and winter really can be a great time to purchase a home. Sellers can be more motivated and the holiday spirit just makes people want to be in a home. The combination of fewer buyers and slow business also means lenders and real estate agents might compete a little harder for your business. Shopping for homes in the winter months also gives you a unique vantage point of a property. 

So despite that December is usually when people are looking to deck their own halls—not buy new ones, buying a home in winter can be a smart move. Realtor® Greg Rapp at Wallace Realty, knows why winter may be the best season for buying or selling your home!  Give Greg a call at (704) 213-6846 and you'll know why, too!

Many real estate agents will tell you that the holiday season often represents a “lull” in the market. But savvy home buyers should look at the advantages of this season if they’re serious about buying. Firstly, mortgage rates are still low! But there are other benefits to home-buying during “The Lull” of November through January. 

There isn’t a lot of competition. People know they’re going to be busy or traveling during the holidays, so most deals have been wrapped up or people have put off looking until after the New Year. There are still homes on the market, but not as many people gunning for them. This is an advantage to both buyers. 

You might think inventory would be lower in a slow season, but that’s not necessarily true. And, sellers are motivated. The homes available on the market during this season are likely the homes that for whatever reason didn’t go during the peak season. The sellers will want to get the deal closed, especially for tax purposes. For a lot of people, they’ll be thinking it’s the end of the year and they will want to tie up loose ends. This is an advantage for buyers, especially if there are points to negotiate. 

Some Realtors® love this time of year, because the people who are out looking are serious. As a buyer, your broker will have more time to focus on you, as opposed to other times of the year when they might be juggling more clients. You may not be able to close before the end of the year, but it’s an excellent time to get something under contract. 

Buying in winter is also the ultimate litmus test for a home, since all the big systems such as heating, plumbing and the roof and gutters are put to the test in the cold. Some of the curb appeal may be gone, but fixing landscaping is a lot less expensive than finding out months later that your furnace doesn’t work. 

Moral of the story 

See what homes are on the market in Salisbury, North Carolina and surrounding areas this fall & winter season by calling the area expert Greg Rapp. Greg’s record in selling homes, and finding buyers what they need, is well-known in the area. You'll be HOME for the HOLIDAYS!!  (704) 213-6846 ~ Call -OR- Text!

Adapted from an article by Pauline Millard / LearnVest , December 26, 2013, Forbes.com http://www.forbes.com/sites/learnvest/2013/12/26/why-wait-for-spring-winter-is-a-great-time-to-house-hunt/

Greg Rapp 
Wallace Realty Co. 
704 213 6846 Mobile 
704 636 2021 Office 
www.realestatesalisbury.net 

The 40th Annual OctoberTour™ Just Came to Salisbury NC! Own a Piece of History!

The second weekend in October is one of the very best weekends to be in Salisbury NC!  Historic Salisbury Foundation hosts its annual OctoberTour™ of historic homes every...October!!!

OctoberTour invites thousands from a wide spread geographic area to Salisbury to view private historic homes.  And this year, it's the Foundation's 40th year hosting this extremely popular event.  We sure hop you came to Salisbury, North Carolina on October 10th & 11th to enjoy the 40th annual OctoberTour!

Realtor® Greg Rapp has long been recognized as the Salisbury/Rowan County expert in historic properties.  There isn't another local real estate agent who has the breadth and depth of knowledge of historic properties in the area.  Greg has not only sold more historic residential historic homes than any other area agent, but has spurred economic development in downtown Salisbury ~ presenting the concept of downtown residential spaces over retail in the downtrodden Bernhardt Hardware building...a restoration that now supports six luxury lofts above bistro restaurant, high-end custom bakery, and children's boutique.  The impact this restoration has had on the the downtown is immeasurable and the example is soon to be followed.  Similar downtown projects are waiting in the wings ~ thanks to the innovative and proactive vision of Greg Rapp with Wallace Realty.

Greg and Wallace Realty have several historic properties listed.  So if you took in OctoberTour 2015...you are surely hooked with the historic 'bug' (as if you weren't already)!!!  Let Greg Rapp and Wallace Realty turn you on to the cure for that bug!!

Wallace Realty's  historic listings include:

180 Zeb Street ~ This mill-village cottage, circa 1937, with it's rustic charm and rocking-chair front porch, is tucked away in a completely peaceful and private neighborhood.  Don't let 'rustic' fool you...this tiny home is nearly maintenance free with its new metal roof and vinyl siding! 

MLS#58138 / $39,500 (Listed agent: Greg Rapp)

317 Thomas Street West ~   This circa 1912 Folk Victorian boasts loads of period and original details, while sporting a wonderful renovation and addition with a 1st level Master Suite, study, and screen porch.   

MLS#58145 / $164,500 (Listing agent Margaret Lipe)

418 Monroe Street West ~ if a 'fixer-upper' is your dream....here it is!  Right on the edge of the prestigious Historic West Square in Salisbury NC, this American Bungalow is priced right for your finishing touches!  

MLS#57756 / $59,500 (Listing agent Greg Rapp)

1627 N. Main Street ~ this vintage American Bungalow, circa 1908-1921, and perched on its elevated lot overlooking the North Main Historic District, just exudes charm...from its deep wrap-around porch to its spacious living room...to its bright and airy kitchen.  There's lots to love about this classic bungalow home!  

MLS#58176 / $74,500 (Listing agent Greg Rapp)

131 Bank Street West ~ When it comes to historic grandeur, it's hard to beat this Queen Anne Victorian!  There are too many great features to list here, but know that this especially wonderful home was featured on Historic Salisbury Foundations OctoberTour™ just a few years ago! 

MLS#57943/ $307,000  (Listing agent Margaret Lipe)

225 Thomas Street West ~  A Classic Dutch Colonial home, built in 1922, just overflowing with character.  Over 2400 square feet of historic charm on one of the prettiest streets in Salisbury!

MLS#57638 / $175,000  (Listing agent Greg Scarborough)

206 Thomas Street West ~  Lovely 2-story brick circa 1918 Colonial Revival home is located in The Historic West Square District and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The welcoming front porch leads to the huge foyer where the handsome staircase takes you to the second floor. 

MLS#57723 / $299,800  (Listing agent Marie Leonard-Hampton)

324 Thomas Street West ~ This circa 1927Foursquare in Historic Salisbury offers timeless elegance along with modern updates and convenience, including a completely updated kitchen! Minutes to downtown, all major local thoroughfares, and I-85. 

MLS#58224 / $179,750  (Listing agent Marie Leonard-Hampton)

408 Fulton Street South ~   Pretty circa 1898 Queen Anne style home has been sensitively restored and updated for today's living.Turn-of-the-century architecture includes: wrap around porch, original Victorian trim, high ceilings, paneled doors, original moldings, bay windows, gables, built-ins, wainscoting, stained glass transom, and a lovely wide hart pine flooring. 6 fireplaces including 1 with gas logs! 

MLS#57933 / $258,900  (Listing agent Marie Leonard-Hampton)

1116 Fulton Street South ~  Look at this unique granite block 1.5 story home!  Built in the circa 1910 bungalow style, it features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, spacious rooms, a deep front porch, and...wait for it...60 cabinets n the kitchen!! 

MLS#57109 / $150,000  (Listing agent Nancy Poe)

501 Mitchell Avenue ~ Circa 1930 Dutch Colonial in desirable Fulton Heights is a must see property!  Large room sizes with great natural light, period-style kitchen, and a wonderful private side porch off the living room with a second story balcony off the master suite!  

MLS#58131 / $200,000  (Listing agent Greg Rapp)

Connect with the agent who knows more about historic properties, the historic neighborhoods, and the ins-and-outs of preservation and restoration from the ground up....Greg Rapp / Wallace Realty. 

When you make that call/text to 704.213.6846... you'll know you've taken steps in the right direction towards your own piece of history!

Greg Rapp 
Wallace Realty Co. 
704 213 6846 Mobile 
704 636 2021 Office 
www.realestatesalisbury.net