Last week I was invited to share a meal with a young family of four. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner with salad, vegetables and the best pork chops I have tasted in many years.The husband had recently found work again after being a victim of "downsizing" and was out of work for over a year. The wife has been working reduced hours, nearly half what she used to work. It goes without saying that their funds are in short supply, and they are doing the best they can.I found out later that they have been purchasing much of their food from an organization called Angel Food Ministries. I had not heard of it before, so I looked it up on the internet. This group sells boxes of food in various assortments, priced to compare favorably over purchasing at grocery stores. The Signature Box is sized to ... 11/25/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com. HOMES SOLD (Closed), October 1 through October 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)Under $99,999 = 12$100K-$139,999 = 14$140K-$179,999 = 28 $180K-$219,999 = 15$220K-$259,999 = 09$260K-$299,999 = 04$300K-$349,999 = 02$350K-$399,999 = 01$400K-$499,999 = 01 $500K-$999,999 = 00Over $1,000,000 = 01 Total October 2009 = 87Total October 2008 = 104Total October 2007 = 128 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", October 1 through October 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service) NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANN... 11/05/2009

How ‘baut them North Carolina Apples?   Yes it is that time of the year again, fall in North Carolina comes with fresh juice North Carolina Apples and this year they are only click away.   Visit                                       http://www.ncfarmfresh.com/   where you can locate apple road side markets, pick your own orchards and farmers markets close to you.      Remember you are what you eat and in North Carolina it's getting easier and easier to get quality locally grown produce. Enjoy!       Your North Carolina Broker    Sonja Babic 252-617-0861 New Bern NC Real Estate and Info New Bern Homes For Sale New Bern Homes Value Search Entire New Bern MLS 11/02/2009

Flash: Two well know super heros where spotted running through the streets of New Bern, N.C. on October 17, 2009.  Hundereds of other people were spotted as well. Please go to http://homer56.wordpress.com/2009/10/17/even-super-heros-run-the-neuse-river-bridge-run/  for more details.       10/17/2009

Home sales have been between "the rock and a hard place" in my part of eastern North Carolina for some months.  In N.C. as in all markets, there are some areas that are doing o.k. but we have seen this year's month vs. last year monthly sales slide for 22 months in a row.  With that said there does seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel!  In September 2009 we missed our September 2008 sales number by the smallest amount in 22 months.  We were only off by 10 houses! While we will still have to see what happens next, I think this is very encouraging.  Purchases by families at M.C.A.S. Cherry Point have remained fairly stable. About 36% of homes purchased in September 2009 were done with V.A. financing. Another thing that showed up in September is we sold homes in every price cate... 10/12/2009

The 29th Annual Mum Fest kicks off this week-end and locals as well as visitors will flock to the historic downtown New Bern streets for a great weekend of fun and entertainment.  This is the best weekend to experience New Bern's small town charm in a great setting. The work on Broad Street is really showing that that there is an end in sight.  Construction has been a little inconvenient to say the least, but this weekend you will get to see the beginning of the end.  Most of the work is complete from Hancock Street to the River.  It looks great! There's all kinds of things to do this weekend, so we'll see you downtown in New Bern for Mum Fest! Here's the link:http://www.mumfest.net/ Ya'll come!       10/08/2009

The best of times may be here if you are a residential real estate buyer! Yep, that's what I said.  Here's 4 reasons why: I talked to a mortgage banker on 10/8/2009 and she said rates had slipped down a little this week and she quoted a percentage rate less than 4.9 on a fixed 30 year mortgage with no points.  My first mortgage in 1989 was 11% and I was glad to get that deal because rates where going up everyday! There is excess inventory in just about every neighborhood that I work in.  This puts a lot of pressure on sellers to be at the front of the line with pricing, if they really want to sell and move on with their lives. We're not seeing double digit home price appreciation like before. The $8000 Tax Credit still might work for someone who really gets their act together and makes ... 10/08/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.HOMES SOLD (Closed), September 1 through September 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service) Under $99,999 = 26 $100K-$139,999 = 17$140K-$179,999 = 33$180K-$219,999 = 19$220K-$259,999 = 10 $260K-$299,999 = 02$300K-$349,999 = 01$350K-$399,999 = 02$400K-$499,999 = 01$500K-$999,999 = 01Over $1,000,000 = 01 Total September 2009 = 113Total September 2008 = 127 Total September 2007 = 150 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", September 1 through September 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service) NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Ber... 10/06/2009

              Tryon Palace "Free Gardens" Sunday     Save the date!                             It's always a beautiful time of the year in the Tryon Palace Historic Sites gardens, but fall is one of our favorite seasons. Come by on Sunday October 4 for first Sunday ...in the Gardens, when the gardens of Tryon Palace are open free to the public to enjoy all the flowers. (Interior tours require the purchase of a ticket.)   Your North Carolina Broker          Sonja Babic        252-617-0861 www.SonjaBabic.com      Sonja Babic is your New Bern and North Carolina Real Estate Broker! Looking for waterfront, historic or golf? We have it all! Conveniently located and with so much to offer New Bern is a great place to work, play and retire! Please contact me for more information's or to request... 09/29/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.HOMES SOLD (Closed), August 1 through August 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service) Under $100K = 12 $100K-$159,999 = 39$160K-$199,999 = 15$200K-$249,999 = 14$250K-$299,999 = 05$300K-$399,999 = 07$400K-$499,999 = 00Over $500,000 = 02 Total August 2009 = 94Total August 2008 = 149Total August 2007 = 191 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", August 1 through August 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service) NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)For one of the BEST sites for New Bern information, and the Most Responsive Service: Contact DIANNE! www.NewBernHomes.com Toll Free: (888) 781-8800 09/04/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com. HOMES SOLD (Closed), July 1 through July 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)Under $100K = 06$100K-$159,999 = 33$160K-$199,999 = 26$200K-$249,999 = 18 $250K-$299,999 = 04$300K-$399,999 = 06$400K-$499,999 = 03Over $500,000 = 01 Total July 2009 = 97 Total July 2008 = 144Total July 2007 = 183 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", July 1 through July 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service) NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service) For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!Email Dianne(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800 www.NewBernHomes.comSea... 08/05/2009

   Downtown hotel goes on auction blockEconomic situation is becoming more obvious even in the sleepy New Bern NC. This week, a downtown New Bern hotel will be sold to the highest bidder to help settle a debt that exceeds $2 million.The Days Hotel in Five Points will be sold "lock, stock and barrel" during a public auction Thursday at 10 a.m.The hotel closed in May after its owners, Connecticut Avenue Partners, were unable to pay their creditors.The successful bidder will get not only the hotel property, but also its furnishings. Within the past year, the hotel had major interior renovations, including restaurant, lobby and guestroom upgrades. Right now there is no telling what kind of money will hotel bring in but with its great location it sure can turn up to be great business opportu... 07/13/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com. HOMES SOLD (Closed), June 1 through June 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)Under $100K = 22$100K-$159,999 = 37$160K-$199,999 = 25$200K-$249,999 = 18$250K-$299,999 = 06$300K-$399,999 = 06$400K-$499,999 = 05Over $500,000 = 03 Total June 2009 = 122Total June 2008 = 162Total June 2007 = 223 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD" LAST MONTH NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!Email Dianne(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800 07/06/2009

Last night we were treated to a beautiful summer night of some awesome movie music with NC symphony. New Bern music lovers came in huge numbers and made this a spectacular event as always. Evening stared with Tryon Palace drummers and a surprise marriage proposal. Concert was held in Tryon Palace historic gardens overlooking Trent River. What a glorious night! Conducted by William Henry Curry in his 14th season with NC symphony, orchestra was magnificent.   In 2009 - 2010 season they have planed 4concerts in New Bern's Riverfront Convention Center and season tickets or individual tickets are available now. More Info at www.NCsymphony.org     Your North Carolina Broker Sonja Babic 252-617-0861 New Bern NC Real Estate New Bern NC Homes For Sale Read My BLOG Search Entire New Bern MLS 06/23/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! HOMES SOLD (Closed), May 1 through May 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)Under $100K = 15$100K-$159,999 = 36$160K-$199,999 = 22$200K-$249,999 = 11$250K-$299,999 = 06$300K-$399,999 = 04$400K - $499,999 = 01Over $500,000 = 01 Total May 2009 = 96Total May 2008 = 151Total May 2007 = 196 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD" LAST MONTH NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contac... 06/05/2009

NOAA Issues Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook, Encourages Preparedness   Recommended Disaster Supply Kit   Have an emergency supplies ready and packed in one place before disaster hits. Store supplies in an easy to carry case or container with ID tag (very important!)   For Medical Needs   First Aid Kit Prescriptions and all the medication you are currently taking with instruction and dosage information's. List of allergies Extra glasses and hearing aid batteries. Medical insurance information's List of doctors as well relatives to be contacted should you gat injured   General Emergency Supplies   Battery operated radio or TV, flashlight and extra batteries Change of clothing, shoes and rain gear Blankets or sleeping bags Extra set of keys Cash, credit cards, cell phone, cell phone char... 06/03/2009

· Our real estate market has fared better than some other parts of the country and state!    However:  · Inventory levels are climbing (it's Spring) and sales are sluggish.  63% of homes sold in the first quarter of 2009 where under  $200,000.00 · Homes priced between $200-299,999K represented 23.9% of all 1st quarter sales   · Homes priced at $300k & up represented only 13% of 1st quarter sales .  · Buyers are scarce and offering prices are lower. Days on the market are increasing.  · Until inventory levels of new and existing homes come down substantially AND the economy improves, the downward pressure on prices will continue to intensify, as sellers  compete for fewer qualified buyers that are actively ready and willing to buy now.  · If you are considering selling make sure you unde... 05/09/2009

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.comHOMES SOLD (Closed), April 1 through April 30. (From NB Board of Realtors MLS System) Under $100K = 11$100K-$159,999 = 18$160K-$199,999 = 11$200K-$249,999 = 12$250K-$299,999 = 6 $300K-$399,999 = 6$400K - $499,999 = 1Over $500,000 = 1 Total April 2009 = 66Total April 2008 = 129 Total April 2007 = 171 NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD" NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE"For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!Email Dianne(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800 05/05/2009

Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation has received a $646,650 federal grant to create a public marina for transient boaters on Jack's Island at Lawson Creek Park.The money comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and is intended specifically for boating infrastructure projects. The grant is expected to pay for nearly half of a $1.4 million construction project that will create a 14-slip marina.Of those, 12 slips would be available to the public, one would be for a "pump out" boat and one for a safety vessel. Dubbed the River History Marina, it would provide the first public, short-term dockage available in New Bern.The marina is designed for 35- to 40-foot boats that would dock there no longer than 10 days. Boaters would be charged a base fee, and then $1.50 a foot per vesse... 04/19/2009

Come and get a little taste of New Bern history!The annual New Bern Spring Historic Homes and Gardens Tour features 16 historic homes and gardens.The Friday and Saturday tour is sponsored by the New Bern Historical Society and the New Bern Preservation Foundation, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.Many of the areas historic churches will also be open and will offer music. Homemade bagged lunches and baked goods will be available at the restored Pinnix Drug Store.The Tryon Palace Gardens will be open to the public for the tour weekend. Spring Homes Tour ticket holders will receive a discount on the Governor's Pass to tour the Palace and the New Bern Academy.All tour ticket holders are also invited to a special reception at Carolina Creations at 317 Pollock St. on Friday from 5-7 p.m. There... 04/14/2009