Lisa Ellis - Real Estate by Design

Lisa Ellis - Real Estate by Design Your Personal Key to the Triangle. that gives Lisa’s clients the advantage of something money can’t buy- her wisdom.

Serving Durham and the Triangle since 1996 with expert guidance for buyers and sellers. 30 years of local market knowledge, trusted advice, and professional representation through every step of your move. From Lisa’s first sacarry �restaurants, have given her a worldview adept at welcoming residents from all over the planet and making them feel at home here in North Carolina. Like her favorite Ein

stein quote, “not to be a success, but Ellis’s priorities are all substance, and a genuine passion for people as the keys to her success in keeping clients happy and coming back. See whEllis and her team at Real Estate by Design can do for you and thank your

Weekend Highlight:Fifth Annual Durham Bee Day CelebrationDurham Central ParkThis weekend, Durham Bee Day returns to cele...
06/12/2026

Weekend Highlight:
Fifth Annual Durham Bee Day Celebration
Durham Central Park

This weekend, Durham Bee Day returns to celebrate the pollinators that play a vital role in our gardens, food systems, and local ecosystems. The event brings together beekeepers, educators, gardeners, and families for a morning focused on learning, conservation, and community engagement.

Visitors can meet local beekeepers, view a demonstration hive, sample local honey, plant seeds, and learn practical ways to support pollinators at home. The popular Bee Parade adds a creative and family-friendly element, making the event both educational and fun for all ages.

The celebration takes place Saturday from 9 AM–12 PM at Durham Central Park.

Plan your weekend and explore more events at LisaEllis.com/WeekendGuide

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Featured Listing1010 Laceflower DriveDurham, NC 27713Now Offered at $399,900If you’ve been waiting for the right opportu...
06/12/2026

Featured Listing
1010 Laceflower Drive
Durham, NC 27713

Now Offered at $399,900

If you’ve been waiting for the right opportunity in South Durham, 1010 Laceflower Drive deserves a closer look. Unlike many townhomes in newer communities, this beautifully maintained home backs to open space with no direct rear neighbor, creating a setting that feels more private and peaceful while still offering convenient access to everything the Triangle has to offer.

Inside, the home feels nearly new and has been thoughtfully designed for modern living. The open-concept main level features luxury vinyl plank flooring, a spacious living area, and a stylish kitchen with granite countertops, tile backsplash, 42-inch cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances including a five-burner gas range. Upstairs, the private primary suite offers a walk-in closet, dual vanities, and a beautifully appointed walk-in shower, while two additional bedrooms provide flexibility for guests, family, hobbies, or workspace needs.

Location is another standout feature. Southpoint, RTP, RDU Airport, Duke, and UNC are all within easy reach, while nearby community amenities including a playground and dog park add to the home’s appeal. For buyers seeking low-maintenance living, modern finishes, and a desirable South Durham location, this home offers an exceptional value at its new price.

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Weekly Home Maintenance ChecklistPower Wash Driveways and WalkwaysRemove Dirt and Seasonal BuildupOver time, driveways a...
06/11/2026

Weekly Home Maintenance Checklist

Power Wash Driveways and Walkways

Remove Dirt and Seasonal Buildup
Over time, driveways and walkways collect dirt, pollen, mildew, and other debris. Power washing helps restore their appearance and improve overall curb appeal.

Treat Stains and Problem Areas
Pay special attention to areas with oil stains, algae, or heavy discoloration. Some spots may benefit from pre-treatment before washing.

Inspect for Cracks and Damage
As surfaces are cleaned, look for cracks, settling, or areas beginning to deteriorate. Identifying issues early can help prevent more extensive repairs later.

Clear Edges and Expansion Joints
Remove weeds, grass, and debris from joints and edges to help maintain a clean appearance and reduce future growth.

Clean, well-maintained hardscapes create a welcoming first impression and help preserve the appearance of your home’s exterior.

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

First impressions begin before buyers ever step inside your home. Summer is an ideal time to focus on curb appeal throug...
06/11/2026

First impressions begin before buyers ever step inside your home. Summer is an ideal time to focus on curb appeal through simple improvements such as fresh mulch, exterior maintenance, pressure washing, and a welcoming front entry.

Thoughtful preparation can help your home stand out and create a stronger impression from the very first glance.

Read more at LisaEllis.com/RealGuide

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Explore Durham:Pizzeria Toro105 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701Located in the heart of downtown Durham, Pizzer...
06/10/2026

Explore Durham:

Pizzeria Toro
105 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701

Located in the heart of downtown Durham, Pizzeria Toro has become one of the Bull City’s most recognizable dining destinations, known for its wood-fired pizzas, lively atmosphere, and thoughtfully crafted menu. The restaurant blends rustic warmth with an energetic open-kitchen experience, where the glow of the wood-burning oven becomes part of the evening itself.

While the pizzas remain the centerpiece, the menu extends well beyond traditional favorites. Seasonal small plates, house-made pastas, fresh salads, and carefully selected ingredients create a dining experience that feels both approachable and elevated. The balance of casual comfort and culinary attention to detail has helped establish Pizzeria Toro as a longtime favorite for date nights, celebrations, and evenings out downtown.

The restaurant’s location along Durham’s active downtown dining corridor places it in the center of one of the city’s most vibrant and evolving neighborhoods. Surrounded by theaters, galleries, hotels, and local businesses, Pizzeria Toro reflects the energy and creativity that continue to define Durham’s food scene.

Over the years, the restaurant has become more than simply a place to grab dinner. It is part of the larger story of downtown Durham’s growth, where historic spaces, independent restaurants, and community gathering places continue to shape the character of Bull City.

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Just Listed!3311 Alex DriveHillsborough, NC 27278If you’ve been searching for a home that offers privacy, mature trees, ...
06/10/2026

Just Listed!
3311 Alex Drive
Hillsborough, NC 27278

If you’ve been searching for a home that offers privacy, mature trees, and a connection to nature without sacrificing convenience, 3311 Alex Drive deserves a closer look. Nestled on more than an acre in the quiet Charles Woods community, this property sits atop a wooded hill with a long gravel driveway that creates a peaceful sense of arrival from the moment you turn in.

Inside, recent improvements including a new roof, fresh paint, refinished hardwood floors, new carpet, and updated luxury vinyl plank flooring make the home move-in ready. The vaulted great room with fireplace serves as the heart of the home, while the kitchen, breakfast area, and formal dining room provide comfortable spaces for everyday living and entertaining. Two spacious decks invite you outdoors to enjoy the wooded surroundings, morning coffee, or quiet evenings under the trees.

Located just minutes from Hillsborough, Durham, and Chapel Hill, this home offers easy access to Eno River State Park, Eno River Farm, and all the conveniences of the Triangle while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of country living. With over an acre of land, Orange County schools, lower county taxes, and HOA dues of only $60 per year, this is an opportunity to enjoy the space and tranquility many buyers are seeking.

See more photos and details:
3311AlexDrive.com

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

“The sun himself is weak when he first rises.”Charles DickensEvery beginning starts in a place of possibility. Growth ta...
06/09/2026

“The sun himself is weak when he first rises.”
Charles Dickens

Every beginning starts in a place of possibility. Growth takes time, experience is earned, and even the brightest outcomes begin with a first step.

There is value in allowing things the time they need to develop.

For nearly 30 years, Lisa Ellis has helped clients move forward with patience, perspective, and confidence through every stage of the journey.

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Another Five Star Review“Lisa Ellis is truly outstanding. She treats real estate as more than a job—it’s personal to her...
06/09/2026

Another Five Star Review

“Lisa Ellis is truly outstanding. She treats real estate as more than a job—it’s personal to her, and it shows in everything she does.

She helped us prepare our home for the market with staging, exceptional advertising, and beautiful photography. The result was a fast sale—to the very first buyers who toured the home.

Lisa also guided us to the perfect new home and negotiated skillfully on our behalf, doing extensive research to justify a lower purchase price with both the agent and the seller.

She then helped us line up vendors for new flooring, kitchen cabinet painting, and a fresh interior color scheme.

What could have been an incredibly stressful experience—downsizing—became enjoyable and deeply rewarding thanks to Lisa’s professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail. We are endlessly grateful and highly recommend her.”

– Kent & Debbie E.

Buying and selling at the same time requires thoughtful planning, strong negotiation, and attention to countless details. This review reflects an approach that extends beyond the transaction itself, helping clients navigate major life transitions with confidence and peace of mind.

If you’re preparing to downsize, relocate, or make your next move, work with an experienced professional who will guide every step of the journey.

Learn more at LisaEllis.com.

🔑 Your Personal Key to the Triangle

Address

5003 Southpark Drive, Suite 110
Durham, NC
27713

Telephone

(919) 606-1754

Website

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