Take Advantage of Your Home Equity: A Homeowner’s Guide

Homeownership offers many advantages over renting, including a stable living environment, predictable monthly payments, and the freedom to make modifications. Neighborhoods with high rates of homeownership have less crime and more civic engagement. Additionally, studies show that homeowners are happier and healthier than renters, and their children do better in school.¹

But one of the biggest perks of homeownership is the opportunity to build wealth over time. Researchers at the Urban Institute found that homeownership is financially beneficial for most families,² and a recent study showed that the median net worth of homeowners can be up to 80 times greater than that of renters in some areas.³

So how does purchasing a home help you build wealth? And what steps should you take to maximize the potential of your investment? Find out how to harness the power of home equity for a secure financial future.

WHAT IS HOME EQUITY?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and the amount you owe on your mortgage. So, for example, if your home would currently sell for $250,000, and the remaining balance on your mortgage is $200,000, then you have $50,000 in home equity.

$250,000 (Home’s Market Value)

-           $200,000 (Mortgage Balance)

______________________________

             $50,000 (Home Equity)

The equity in your home is considered a non-liquid asset. It’s your money; but rather than sitting in a bank account, it’s providing you with a place to live. And when you factor in the potential of appreciation, an investment in real estate will likely offer a better return than any savings account available today.

 HOW DOES HOME EQUITY BUILD WEALTH?

A mortgage payment is a type of “forced savings” for home buyers. When you make a mortgage payment each month, a portion of the money goes towards interest on your loan, and the remaining part goes towards paying off your principal, or loan balance. That means the amount of money you owe the bank is reduced every month. As your loan balance goes down, your home equity goes up.

Additionally, unlike other assets that you borrow money to purchase, the value of your home generally increases, or appreciates, over time. For example, when you pay off your car loan after five or seven years, you will own it outright. But if you try to sell it, the car will be worth much less than when you bought it. However, when you purchase a home, its value typically rises over time. So when you sell it, not only will you have grown your equity through your monthly mortgage payments, but in most cases, your home’s market value will be higher than what you originally paid. And even if you only put down 10% at the time of purchase—or pay off just a small portion of your mortgage—you get to keep 100% of the property’s appreciated value. That’s the wealth-building power of real estate.

WHAT CAN I DO TO GROW MY HOME’S EQUITY FASTER?

Now that you understand the benefits of building equity, you may wonder how you can speed up your rate of growth. There are two basic ways to increase the equity in your home:

1)    Pay down your mortgage.

We shared earlier that your home’s equity goes up as your mortgage balance goes down. So paying down your mortgage is one way to increase the equity in your home.

Some homeowners do this by adding a little extra to their payment each month, making one additional mortgage payment per year, or making a lump-sum payment when extra money becomes available—like an annual bonus, gift, or inheritance.

Before making any extra payments, however, be sure to check with your mortgage lender about the specific terms of your loan. Some mortgages have prepayment penalties. And it’s important to ensure that if you do make additional payments, the money will be applied to your loan principal.

Another option to pay off your mortgage faster is to decrease your amortization period. For example, if you can afford the larger monthly payments, you might consider refinancing from a 30-year or 25-year mortgage to a 15-year mortgage. Not only will you grow your home equity faster, but you could also save a bundle in interest over the life of your loan.

2)    Raise your home’s market value.

Boosting the market value of your property is another way to grow your home equity. While many factors that contribute to your property’s appreciation are out of your control (e.g. demographic trends or the strength of the economy) there are things you can do to increase what it’s worth.

For example, many homeowners enjoy do-it-yourself projects that can add value at a relatively low cost. Others choose to invest in larger, strategic upgrades. Keep in mind, you won’t necessarily get back every dollar you invest in your home. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine’s latest Cost vs. Value Report, the remodeling project with the highest return on investment is a garage door replacement, which costs about $3600 and is expected to recoup 97.5% at resale. In contrast, an upscale kitchen remodel—which can cost around $130,000—averages less than a 60% return on investment.⁴

Of course, keeping up with routine maintenance is the most important thing you can do to protect your property’s value. Neglecting to maintain your home’s structure and systems could have a negative impact on its value—therefore reducing your home equity. So be sure to stay on top of recommended maintenance and repairs.

HOW DO I ACCESS MY HOME EQUITY IF I NEED IT?

When you put your money into a checking or savings account, it’s easy to make a withdrawal when needed. However, tapping into your home equity is a little more complicated.

The primary way homeowners access their equity is by selling their home. Many sellers will use their equity as a downpayment on a new home. Or some homeowners may choose to downsize and use the equity to supplement their income or retirement savings.

But what if you want to access the equity in your home while you’re still living in it? Maybe you want to finance a home renovation, consolidate debt, or pay for college. To do that, you will need to take out a loan using your home equity as collateral.

There are several ways to borrow against your home equity, depending on your needs and qualifications:⁵

1)    Second Mortgage - A second mortgage, also known as a home equity loan, is structured similar to a primary mortgage. You borrow a lump-sum amount, which you are responsible for paying back—with interest—over a set period of time. Most second mortgages have a fixed interest rate and provide the borrower with a predictable monthly payment. Keep in mind, if you take out a home equity loan, you will be making monthly payments on both your primary and secondary mortgages, so budget accordingly.

2)    Cash-Out Refinance - With a cash-out refinance, you refinance your primary mortgage for a higher amount than you currently owe. Then you pay off your original mortgage and keep the difference as cash. This option may be preferable to a second mortgage if you have a high interest rate on your current mortgage or prefer to make just one payment per month.

3)    Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) - A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card. It allows you to draw out money as you need it instead of taking out a lump sum all at once. A HELOC may come with a checkbook or debit card to enable easy access to funds. You will only need to make payments on the amount of money that has been drawn. Similar to a credit card, the interest rate on a HELOC is variable, so your payment each month could change depending on how much you borrow and how interest rates fluctuate.

4)    Reverse Mortgage - A reverse mortgage enables qualifying seniors to borrow against the equity in their home to supplement their retirement funds. In most cases, the loan (plus interest) doesn’t need to be repaid until the homeowners sell, move, or are deceased.⁶

Tapping into your home equity may be a good option for some homeowners, but it’s important to do your research first. In some cases, another type of loan or financing method may offer a lower interest rate or better terms to fit your needs. And it’s important to remember that defaulting on a home equity loan could result in foreclosure. Ask us for a referral to a lender or financial adviser to find out if a home equity loan is right for you.

 I'M HERE TO HELP YOU

Wherever you are in the equity-growing process, I can help. I work with buyers to find the perfect home to begin their wealth-building journey. I also offer free assistance to existing homeowners who want to know their home’s current market value to refinance or secure a home equity loan. And when you’re ready to sell, I can help you get top dollar to maximize your equity stake. Contact me today to schedule a complimentary consultation!

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

1.      National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/highlights-from-social-benefits-of-homeownership-and-stable-housing

2.      Urban Institute -
https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/homeownership-still-financially-better-renting

3.      Census Bureau -
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/08/gaps-in-wealth-americans-by-household-type.html

4.      Remodeling Magazine -
https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2019/

5.      Investopedia -
https://www.investopedia.com/mortgage/heloc/home-equity/

6.      Bankrate -
https://www.bankrate.com/mortgage/reverse-mortgage-guide/

Local Market Insights - Dec 2019

What's Happening in Your Local Market?

Whether you are planning to sell or buy a property, understanding your local real estate market is empowering.

December 2019

(Combined 3-County Stats)


This month the Federal Reserve voted to leave its key benchmark rate unchanged, which was widely expected. While the rate decisions by the Federal Reserve do not directly affect mortgage rates, Federal Reserve policy does affect the economic markets overall. Mortgage rates ended the year close to three-quarters of a percent lower than in 2018, a welcomed improvement for buyers as well as homeowners who took the opportunity to refinance.

In 2019 home prices were up again in most markets. Buyer demand continues to be strong but with tepid seller activity still in many locations, total sales are lower than they would normally be in a more balanced market. While up from their recent lows a few months ago, mortgage rates end the year close to three-quarters of a percent lower than a year ago, helping to improve affordability and offset rising home prices.

New Listings increased 16.9 percent for Single Family homes and 28.3 percent for Townhouse/Condo homes. Pending Sales increased 50.1 percent for Single Family homes and 68.2 percent for Townhouse/Condo homes. Inventory decreased 3.5 percent for Single Family homes but increased 0.4 percent for Townhouse/Condo homes.

Median Sales Price increased 15.8 percent to $295,249 for Single Family homes and 8.2 percent to $201,600 for Townhouse/Condo homes. Days on Market decreased 6.3 percent for Single Family homes and 30.9 percent for Townhouse/Condo homes. Months Supply of Inventory decreased 15.0 percent for Single Family homes and 6.7 percent for Townhouse/Condo homes.

With low mortgage rates, low unemployment, and continued wage growth, home buyer activity is expected to remain healthy into the new year. New construction has been on the rise in 2019 and is expected to continue into 2020, but many experts note that the country is still not building enough new units to quench demand. It remains to be seen whether existing homeowners will be enticed to sell by higher home prices, which could finally bring the overall housing market into greater balance.

Above info is combined New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender Counties, provided by Cape Fear REALTORS®

Update: Under Contract! Condo for sale - 111 Florida Avenue 2, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

This is a great 2bed/2bath condo on Carolina Beach, with a beautiful south-facing view of the Yacht Basin.  $300,000.  Bring your offers!

Local Market Insights

What's Happening in Your Real Estate Market? 

October 2019 Stats

Whether you are planning to sell or buy a property, understanding your local real estate market is empowering.

In the three-county area, historically low mortgage rates continue to shore up buyer demand as we enter the seasonally slower time of year. Throughout much of the country, the continued low level of housing inventory also continues to constrain sales activity from where it would likely be in a balanced market. In short, current trends are expected to continue.

For the 12-month period spanning November 2018 through October 2019, the price range with the largest gain in sales was the $450,001 or more range, where they increased 24.4 percent.
The overall Median Sales Price was up 2.4 percent to $251,000.
The property type with the largest price gain was the Townhouse/Condo segment, where prices increased 2.9 percent to $195,000.
The price range that tended to sell the quickest was the $150,000 and below range at 51 days; the price range that tended to sell the slowest was the $450,001 or more range at 109 days.
Market-wide, inventory levels were down 1.3 percent. The property type that gained the most inventory was the Condos segment, where it increased 2.5 percent. That amounts to 3.8 months supply for Single Family homes and 3.3 months supply for Townhouse/Condo.
(Information provided by Cape Fear REALTORS®)

With sale prices continuing to rise and inventory to decline, one surprising statistic is that affordability in the three county area has very slightly improved since 2018.  Perhaps this is because  historically low interest rates have more than off-set the rise in prices, helping many to find buying a home more accessible. 

Will Your Remodel Pay Off? The Best (and Worst) Ways to Spend Your Budget

Most new homeowners have something about their property that they want to change. And as family needs and design trends shift over time, many will eventually choose to remodel. Some homeowners make updates to their property before listing it to maximize their potential sales revenue.

Whatever your reasons are for taking on a home improvement project, it’s wise to consider how the money you invest will impact your home’s value.

We’ve taken a look at six popular home renovations and identified those that—on average—have the best and worst returns on investment. So before you lift a hammer or hire a contractor, take a look at this list and see if your remodeling efforts will reward you when it comes time to sell.

RENOVATIONS THAT PAY OFF

These three common home improvement projects not only add function and style to your home, but they also offer a strong return on investment. Making strategic upgrades to your property will help you increase its value over time.

Minor Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen is often referred to as the “heart of the home,” and for good reason. Traditionally used for preparing food, it has morphed into so much more. Many of us now eat our family meals in the kitchen, it serves as a favorite spot for homework and kids’ art projects, and it’s the place guests tend to gather when we host events.

Because we spend so much time in our kitchens, it’s natural that we will eventually want to make updates and upgrades to better suit our needs and changing style preferences.

Luckily, a minor kitchen remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home. According to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report, it has an average 80.5% return on investment.¹

The key to making a kitchen remodel pay off is to keep it modest in scale. Spend too much on custom or high-end selections, and you are less likely to recoup your investment. Instead, make an effort to keep your existing layout if it works for you and your family. Paint or reface cabinets instead of replacing them. Update countertops with low-maintenance quartz and swap out old light fixtures with modern alternatives. Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models. The average cost for a minor kitchen remodel is $22,500, and it’s likely to recoup more than $18,000 at resale.¹

Wood Deck Addition

A deck addition is a popular way to extend and enhance the use of your outdoor space. It’s the perfect spot for grilling, dining alfresco, and entertaining. In fact, 81% of surveyed homeowners said they have a greater desire to be home since completing a deck addition.²

For a 16 x 20-foot wood deck, you can expect to spend around $13,000. Fortunately, the money you invest offers an average return of 76%.¹

Decks made of composite material are a popular alternative these days, as they don’t require the regular sanding and staining that wood decks need. However, at an average cost of $19,000 for a 16 x 20-foot composite deck, they are significantly more expensive. Plus, the expected return on investment is only 69%.¹ Still, if you plan to hire someone to provide regular maintenance to a wood deck, then a composite deck may offer cost savings over time.

Siding Replacement

Everyone knows good curb appeal is important when selling your home. And while it may not be the most exciting way to spend your remodeling budget, new siding can make a big impression on buyers … and your selling price.

Your home’s exterior is one of the first things buyers see when they view your home. It sets the tone for what they are going to see inside. It also gives an impression of how well the property has been maintained. Worn, peeling, or rotted siding can be a major red flag for buyers.

Replacing 1,250 square feet of siding costs around $16,000 and will net you an average of 76% at resale.¹

For an even greater impact, consider replacing a portion of your siding with manufactured stone veneer. It can have a dramatic effect on the visual appeal of your home. A 300 square foot area will run you around $8,900, but you can expect to see a nearly 95% return when it comes time to sell.¹

RENOVATIONS WITH WEAK RETURNS

These three popular remodeling projects are homeowner favorites. However, don’t expect to see a high rate of return at resale. Instead, consider them an investment in your current quality of life. Just make sure you’ll be living in the home long enough to make them worthwhile.

Major Kitchen Remodel

If there’s one room the majority of homeowners dream about making over, it’s their kitchen. From custom cabinetry to high-end appliances, the possibilities are endless. But those dreams can come at a cost.

An upscale kitchen remodel with high-end cabinetry and countertops, commercial-grade appliances, and designer features can cost upwards of $130,000. And unfortunately, you’ll only get back around 60% at resale. Even a mid-range kitchen remodel that includes new semi-custom wood cabinets, laminate countertops, and energy-efficient appliances could run you around $66,000 and net you a mere 62% at resale.¹

Of course, an outdated or non-functional kitchen could turn buyers off from your home completely …  and keep you from enjoying it yourself! So if your kitchen needs a major remodel, you shouldn’t necessarily scrap your plans. Just go in with the realization that you may only get back a fraction of what you invest. Then you can decide which upgrades are worth the splurge.

In-ground Pool         

Few additions deliver more entertainment or enjoyment than an in-ground pool. It brings families and friends together, provides a break from the summer heat, and offers a fun and convenient way to stay fit. Plus, you’ll be the envy of your neighbors! But before you dive into a pool addition, consider whether the benefits outweigh the (substantial) costs.

The average expense to install a standard 18 x 36-foot in-ground pool is $57,500. And the estimated return at resale is only or 43%.²  In addition to the installation cost, plan to spend money each year on maintenance, repairs, and additional insurance.

However, 92% of surveyed homeowners said they “have a greater desire to be home” since installing a pool, and 83% have “an increased sense of enjoyment when they are at home.” For you and your family, the perks of a pool may be priceless.²

Master Suite Addition

If you own a house built before the 1980s, there’s a good chance it lacks a master suite, which is a feature that has become commonplace in most newly constructed homes.³

Master bedrooms have evolved from a simple place to sleep into a homeowner’s retreat—often featuring a sitting area, his-and-hers walk-in closets, and an attached bathroom with double vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower.

And master suite additions have become increasingly popular—both in homes that lack one as well as those with aging owners who can no longer accommodate stairs to an upper-level bedroom.

But what’s the typical return at resale? Unfortunately, a master suite addition offers one of the lowest returns of any remodeling project. With a median cost of $125,000, most sellers will only recoup around 52% of their investment. Nevertheless, in a survey of homeowners, the majority were satisfied with their decision to add a master suite, giving it a “Joy Score” of 10 out of 10.⁴

WEIGHING COST VS. BENEFIT

It’s always wise to enter into a remodeling project with knowledge of how it will impact your home’s value. In most cases, upscale or highly-customized upgrades are less likely to offer a high rate of return. That said, home renovations that improve your quality of life and enhance your enjoyment may be worthwhile no matter the cost.

GET A CUSTOMIZED ANALYSIS OF YOUR PROJECT We’ve been talking averages. But the truth is, the actual return you can expect on a home improvement project will vary depending on your particular home and neighborhood. If you have plans to remodel, call or send us the details. We’d be happy to conduct a free analysis to determine how the renovations will impact the value of your home!

Sources:

1.      2019 Cost vs. Value Report -
https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2019/

2.      NAR’ Remodeling Impact Report - https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2018-05-remodeling-impact-outdoor-features-05-23-2018.pdf

3.      Zillow -
https://www.zillow.com/blog/evolution-of-the-master-bedroom-48286/

4.      House Logic -
https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/bedroom-closet/master-suite-addition-return-investment/

Top 6 Home Organization Upgrades that “Spark Joy” for Buyers

 Thanks to Marie Kondo and her hit Netflix series “Tidying Up,” home organization is a hot topic right now. Marie encourages her viewers to minimize their possessions and keep only those items that “spark joy.”

With spring in full bloom, now is the perfect time to do some spring cleaning and add organizational systems to your own home. Not only will you clear out clutter, your efforts can actually increase the value of your home.

Ready to give it a try? Here are six home organization ideas that will “spark joy” for you and your property value.

Boost Bathroom Storage Capacity

When was the last time you cleaned out your bathroom cupboards? If it’s been awhile, remove everything and take a look at each item. Toss any old or expired products—keep only what you actually use.

If your vanity has drawers, add drawer organizers, so you have a dedicated space for smaller items, like makeup and jewelry. For deep cabinets, install roll-out shelves or baskets to maximize the use of space.

And don’t forget about the walls! Mount open shelves to store towels. If you’re short on storage space, a cabinet over the toilet can offer additional room for supplies. These inexpensive additions can make your morning routine a little easier while giving your bathroom a more custom feel. And on average, minor bathroom remodeling projects like these see a 102% return at resale.¹

Upgrade Your Laundry Room

Sort through the items in your laundry room and throw away or donate anything you no longer need or use. If you’ve been holding onto a collection of old washcloths and single socks, it’s time to say goodbye. Then give your laundry room an upgrade with some customized organizational features.

A mix of open cubbies and cabinets with doors will give you plenty of options for storing detergents and supplies. If you have space, a divided hamper or set of laundry baskets can provide a place to sort your clothes before washing. Install a hanging rod or drying rack for delicates and a flat work surface for ironing and folding clothes. With a few simple tweaks, you can turn this chore into a score!

Fully Utilize Your Basement or Attic

Basements and attics can easily become a dumping ground for clutter. If that’s the case in your home, you know what to do!

Once you’ve conducted a thorough clean out, think about how you can better utilize the space to meet your family’s needs. Install cabinets and a table so you can use the area as a craft room. Or you could turn it into a game room with a media center and ping-pong table. Investing in your basement will not only add function for your family, but also the average basement remodel can see up to a 70% return on investment when it’s time to sell.²

If you have an attic, consider adding a cedar closet to store your off-season clothing. The cedar lining will keep your clothes free from moths and smelling fresh year round.³ Turning your attic into a more usable space will pay off down the road, too. A finished attic sees an estimated 60% return on investment.²  

Customize Your Closets

Cleaning out the closet is a chore most of us dread, but by now, you’re a pro! Get rid the clothes and shoes that don’t fit you, are uncomfortable to wear, or that no longer “spark joy.”

Then it’s organizing time. So where do you start? You’ll want to create a designated space for each type of clothing: high hanging rods for dresses and long jackets, lower rods for skirts and shirts, and shelves for folded items like jeans. And accessories need a place to go, too. Add racks for your shoes, drawers for jewelry, hooks for hats, and shelves or racks for handbags.

A well-equipped closet can be a major draw for buyers—the average return on a closet remodel is 57%.⁴ But more importantly, it’ll improve your day-to-day life. Surveyed homeowners gave their closet remodel a “Joy Score” of 10 out of 10, higher than kitchen or bath upgrades.⁵

Install Built-in Bookcases and Cabinets

Built-in furniture adds functionality and storage to a room while giving your home a high-end look. Built-in bookcases can turn an empty room into an office. Custom cabinets can be used in a living room to display media equipment while providing hidden storage for DVDs, board games, and family albums.

When designing any built-in feature, remember not to go too custom. A design that only fits your tastes or belongings could turn off future buyers. Instead, select standard sizes and classic finishes to appeal to a broad range of buyers when it comes time to sell.

Equip Your Garage

If you can no longer fit your car in your garage, it may be time for a clean out. Similar to an attic or basement, the garage can quickly become overrun with clutter. A thorough cleaning will help you assess which items are worth keeping.

When adding organizational systems your garage, start with a small rack to store yard tools and larger racks for bikes and sports equipment. Overhead racks are a great place to put seasonal items and bulky luggage. A workbench against a wall lined with pegboard and hooks creates a dedicated space to use and store tools. If you have children or pets, add a cabinet with a lock. This will give you a place to securely store harsh chemicals and sharp tools. With a little effort, you’ll be pulling in your car (and buyers) in no time!

SPRING INTO ACTION

If you’re searching for service providers to help with your spring cleaning or home organization efforts, let me know! I can connect you with my trusted network of local home improvement professionals. I can also help you determine which organizational upgrades will add the most value to your home. Call me today, and let me know how I can help!

Sources:

1.      HGTV -
https://www.hgtv.com/design/real-estate/top-home-updates-that-pay-off-pictures

2.      Nationwide -
https://blog.nationwide.com/valuable-home-improvements/

3.      HGTV -
https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/interior-remodel/maximum-home-value-storage-projects--attic

4.      The Closet Doctor - https://www.closet-doctor.com/news/what-is-the-return-on-investment-on-closet-organizers

5.      NAR Remodeling Impact Survey -
https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2017-remodeling-impact-09-28-2017.pdf

Weekend Guide to local Holiday Activities

Get into the Spirit of the Season!  

There are so many events at this time of year, all aimed to get you into the bright and shiny Spirit of the Season.  Here are a few to enjoy this week.

Christmas Parade - Carolina Beach

Friday, Nov 30, 7:30 pm, Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach

Area residents young and old look forward to the annual Christmas Parade. 

The parade proceeds from Atlanta Ave down Lake Park Blvd to the Federal Point Plaza in Carolina Beach. Floats, bands and Santa Clause will be there to add to the festivities of the season and provide a night of entertainment for families. 

For more info, visit the Pleasure Island website: website Pleasure Island Parade

Greenfield Park Christmas Tree Lighting and Movie

Friday, Nov 30, 1941 Amphitheater Dr., Wilmington

Tree lighting, free visits with Santa, and the movie "Elf."   The entertainment starts at 5:15 pm, the tree lighting will be at 6:00 and with the arrival of Santa, and the movie begins at 7 pm.   This will be holiday fun for the whole family!

For more info, visit the Wilmington Parks & Recreation web page:  website Greenfield Tree Lighting

Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla

Saturday, Dec 1, 6:00 pm, Carolina Beach Boat Basin, 216 Canal Drive

Fishing boats and pleasure craft decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise form Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit.  
For more info, visit the Pleasure Island website:  website Island of Lights

Cape Fear Festival of Trees

Nov 19-Jan 2, 9 am- 5 pm, at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher  

Santa's Magical Morning

Saturday Dec 15, 8-9:30 am, at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

    Join Lower Cape Fear Hospice at the NC Aquarium at Fort fisher for one of the area's favorite and longest running holiday traditions: Cape Fear Festival of Trees. Admission to the aquarium is all that is needed to delight in a forest of uniquely decorated trees while taking in all the amazing aquatic displays. Sure to delight all ages, Cape Fear Festival of Trees is the perfect way to entertain children out on school break or family and friends visiting during the holidays.

    And keep in mind the upcoming Santa's Magical Morning also at the Aquarium on Saturday, Dec 15, 8-9:30 am.  Enjoy a donut breakfast while Santa dives in the Cape Fear Shoals with his aquatic friends. Wonder at true tales of Santa's North Pole neighbors and polar pals. Enjoy holiday story time with Mrs. Claus, and don't be surprised by the giggles of glee when the jolly old elf presents a specially selected gift to each child.  

For more info, Visit the NC Aquarium website:  NC Aquarium

Wilmington Holiday Parade and Menorah Lighting

Sunday, Dec 2, starting 6 pm

Wilmington’s 16th annual holiday parade will pass through several blocks of downtown, bringing marching bands, floats, and of course, a visit from Santa.  Starting at 6 p.m., the celebrations will begin with the lighting of the community menorah. The lighting will take place at the intersection of Market and Water Streets.  The parade also kicks off at 6 p.m., four blocks north of the menorah lighting on Water Street at Walnut Street.  Festivities will follow down Water Street south toward Chesnut Street. 

For more info and parade route visit the Port City Daily page: Wilmington Parade Article

Christmas By The Sea - Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Nov 25 until Christmas, Carolina Beach Boardwalk

During the annual Christmas by the Sea, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk area is a holiday wonderland, with fun activities for families. The Boardwalk is decorated and lit up each and every night during the holiday season starting with the lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 24th. 

On Saturday, December 1, 8, and 15 the following activities will be active from 6:30 until 8:30 pm:

Come Visit Santa & Mrs Claus Welcome Center
- Fire Pit with story telling 
- Hot chocolate at the Welcome Center
- Puppet show
- Arts & Crafts Area and ornament making activities for kids
For more info, visit the Christmas by the Sea Facebook page:  Page Xmas by the Sea

Enchanted Airlie

Enchanted Airlie 2018 will run the following nights, 

at Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington NC

• November: 23rd, 24th & 30th 
• December: 1st & 7th-22nd

Better get your tickets NOW because they are almost all gone!  

Airlie Gardens in Wilmington presents Enchanted Airlie, where visitors can experience a self-guided walking tour through gardens featuring festive lights and holiday displays.  Santa Claus himself will be in attendance, and a few local food and beverage vendors will have hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies, beer, wine and more!

For more info, see the Airlie Gardens website:  website Enchanted Airlie

City Ballet Presents: A Carolina Nutcracker

Saturday, Dec 1 at 7 pm; Sunday Dec 2 at 3 pm, Wilson Center, Wilmington

A Carolina Nutcracker is the Cape Fear region's own full-length traditional production of the beloved holiday ballet!  Set in 1865 Wilmington at the Bellamy Mansion, the ballet features all the classic elements of the original -- Drosselmeyer, the Mouse King, and the Sugar Plum Fairy -- merged with Wilmington's own history.  The City Ballet is joined by professional guest artists from the Carolina Ballet in Raleigh, and Tchaikovsky's sumptuous musical score is performed by a live 50-piece professional orchestra and a treble chorus.  If you only see one "Nutcracker" this year, this is the one for the whole family!

For more info and tickets, visit the Wilson Ctr website:  website Nutcracker

Area Map of the Best Christmas Lights

If you love driving around to marvel at the the creative and beautiful light displays in our neighborhoods, here's a map that is being constantly updated to help you find the best of the best.    

Wilmington Christmas Lights Website:  Our Lights