Dianne Bennett Carolina Plantations

01/05/2024

Top Real Estate Firm Specializing in Amenity Based Communities for Active Adults in Coastal NC!

12/28/2023

Do you dream of living steps away from a golf course? Here’s a list of must-ask questions before committing to club membership.

Housing developments built around a country club typically offer a long list of amenities, from golf and tennis to dining and social activities. But are the perks worth the price? And don’t forget to ask whether membership is voluntary or mandatory. Benefits of country club life. Most people assoc...

12/26/2023

Abandoned houses can be like living through a horror movie for a home seller. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help yourself and the neighborhood.

An abandoned, decaying house in your neighborhood — also known as a ‘zombie’ house — could mean big trouble for you and your neighbors, especially if you’re planning to put your home on the market any time soon. How to recognize a zombie. Typically long abandoned, a zombie house may have b...

12/25/2023

The Christmas legend of Santa Claus evolved from a real person in history known for giving gifts to the needy. Who was that person?

The legend of Santa Claus originated with Saint Nicholas in the 4th century. Nicholas was perhaps best known for having secretly supplied a poor man with three purses of gold coins to pay for his three daughters’ weddings.The name Santa Claus evolved from Sinterklaas, the Dutch name for St. Nichol...

12/24/2023

You pay your utility bills every month, but do you understand what they say?

The next time the monthly utility bills arrive, resist the urge to blindly write a check or schedule a payment. Take the time for a more in-depth examination. You just might find a way to trim the bill. Understanding your electric bill. Using a fixed rate, the power company charges a set rate of x [...

12/23/2023

If you own a dog or cat, you’ll want to bookmark this article that lists poisonous and pet-friendly plants.

Although dogs and cats are carnivores, they sometimes munch on potentially hazardous plants. Here’s a list of some common indoor and outdoor plants that are dangerous to pets and a second list of pet-friendly plants. Plants that can be hazardous to pets Azalea can cause vomiting, diarrhea, droolin...

12/21/2023

When shopping for a house, hire a pro. Here’s 7 reasons why you’ll be glad you did.

Whether buying a new house or an existing one, buyers typically feel more at ease having a real estate agent working on their behalf. It’s their job to make things go smoothly. Here’s how. Knowledge of builders. Real estate agents don’t just work with resale homes. Agents know the builders in ...

12/19/2023

Did that promotion come with a relocation package? Here’s what to expect when you move across the country or around the globe for a career opportunity.

Moving for your career is exciting whether you’re moving a few hundred miles or halfway around the globe. Here’s how to prepare for a smooth transition.

12/17/2023

Changing your air filters is easy -- once you know the best filters to buy. Save yourself some time and trouble with this cheat sheet of types and prices.

Homeowners expect their houses to be warm in winter and cool in summer, but don’t take those comfortable temperatures for granted. Regularly changing the air filters is an essential task. HVAC systems move air in a continuous loop through the house. An intake vent uses a fan to pull air from the r...

12/16/2023

Today’s clothes dryers come with a lot of bells and whistles, but are they worth the extra cost? Here’s how to find the right dryer for you and your family.

Shopping for a clothes dryer has never been more complicated. The choices can be overwhelming. Beyond capacity and color, consumers must decide whether they want any of a myriad of special features such as moisture sensors and steamers. Let’s go shopping and take a look at what’s available. Size...

12/14/2023

It’s time for the final “walk through” on your newly built home. How should you prepare for it?

After months of watching your new home being built, it’s time for the “walk through” with your builder. This is your opportunity to make sure things are fixed before closing. Here’s a walk through of the walk-through process. Bring blue tape and a keen eye. If your builder is amenable, do an...

12/12/2023

How exactly does your real estate agent get paid? What you need to know about all that fine print.

When a home is listed for sale with a real estate company, the seller is ultimately agreeing to pay both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent and their respective companies. In some cases, the commission may be a percentage of the sales price or it may be a flat fee. When and how the […]