Blog for www.CharlotteHomeUpdate.com : lake norman

Charlotte Home Sales Rise Again!!!!

Assistant 2 — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:39:00 GMT

Charlotte home sales up 24.9% from March 2012

By Deon Roberts
deroberts@charlotteobserver.com

By Deon Roberts The Charlotte Observer

Posted: Tuesday, Apr. 09, 2013

Modified: Tuesday, Apr. 09, 2013

Sales of existing homes in the Charlotte region jumped 24.9 percent in March from the same month a year ago, while the average sales price rose 10.3 percent, the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association said Tuesday.

Sales of existing homes in the Charlotte region jumped 24.9 percent in March from the same month a year ago, while the average sales price rose 10.3 percent over the period, the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association said Tuesday.

It was the 21st consecutive month of year-over-year increases in sales and the 14th consecutive month of year-over-year increases in average prices for the 17-county area tracked by the CRRA.

For the month, there were 2,621 sales in the region, compared with 2,098 in March 2012. The average selling price rose to $216,445 from $196,214.

In Mecklenburg County, increases in sales and prices surpassed those for the metro area. There were 1,227 sales in the county in March – up 29.3 percent from 949 in the same month last year. The county’s average sales price rose 10.8 percent to $236,184 from $213,234.

Homes continue to sell quicker in the Charlotte region. Days on the market – a measure of the time it takes a home to sell – fell to 112 in March from 120 the same month last year.

The CRRA tracks existing homes, not newly built ones.

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Check out the price trends for the Cornelius area. Click the link below to view your own zip code trends!

Price Trends for Your Area

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Spring Into Buying Your Dream Home....The Time is Now!

Assistant 2 — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:56:00 GMT

Spring Home Buying Season Off To Early Start

Realtor.com’s February 2013 national housing data indicates that listing inventories increased 1.15 percent month-over-month; median age of inventory was at 98 days, a 9.26 percent decrease month-over-month; and median list prices were slightly higher month-over-month at $189,900. These numbers show that home buyers are getting an early start on the spring season despite the fact that inventories recently hit record lows.

The median age of inventory was down by 9.26 percent month over month and total listings are up 1.15 percent month over month, suggesting that many reluctant home sellers are starting to take an early advantage of the recent improvements in housing prices. Annual inventory decreases of -15.97 percent are consistent with a gradual, yet persistent downward trend that has been occurring over the last two years. From January 2013 to February 2013, the median age of inventory decreased in 145 of the 146 markets tracked by realtor.com. The national median list price also reversed its downward trend, rising by 1.55 percent over the month of February and 1.01 percent on an annual basis. In addition, the number of markets experiencing a decline in home prices is shrinking, implying more good news for the housing market and U.S. economy at large.

There continue to be pronounced regional differences in the strength of the housing market. Several areas in California are experiencing the highest increases in list prices coupled with the largest inventory declines. Phoenix, Seattle and Denver are also among the top performers across the U.S. However, many smaller industrialized markets in the Midwest and the Northeast registered year-over-year price declines, as did Philadelphia, Chicago and New York City. While the number of markets experiencing year-over-year list price declines had been increasing, this pattern appears to be turning around as home list prices increased in 78 markets last month on a year-over-year basis and declined in 39.

National Data

In February, the total number of single-family homes, condos, townhomes and co-ops for sale in the U.S. (1,494,218) increased by 1.15 percent month-over-month. On an annual basis, however, inventory was down by 15.97 percent.

The national median list price for single-family homes, condos, townhomes and co-ops ($189,900) increased by 1.01 percent year-over-year and 1.55 percent month-over-month in February.

The median age of inventory of for sale listings fell to 98 days in February, down 9.26 percent from January and 11.71 percent below the median age one year ago (February 2012).

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It's Official!! Sea Life Aquarium at Concord Mills will begin construction this July and Open in Spring 2014. It will feature a walk through underwater tunnel!!

Assistant 2 — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:42:00 GMT

Concord Sea Life aquarium scheduled to open in spring 2014

Construction set to start in July

Sea Life Aquarium

Sea Life operates more than 30 aquarium attractions around the world.

Posted: Wednesday, March 13, 2013 1:31 pm

CONCORD, N.C. -- Global visitor attraction operator, Merlin Entertainments (Merlin), has confirmed that it has reached an agreement with the City of Concord, Cabarrus County and The Mills, a Simon Company, to develop plans for a $10 million SEA LIFE aquarium to open in spring 2014 at Concord Mills, the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in North Carolina.

“North America is a very important development market for Merlin, and we are delighted to be able to move forward with this exciting project in North Carolina,” commented Glenn Earlam, Managing Director of Merlin Entertainments’ Midway Attractions group. “We have already worked very successfully on two other projects with The Mills in Dallas and Phoenix; and in recent months we have also developed excellent working relationships with the Cabarrus Convention and Visitors Bureau, the City of Concord and Cabarrus County. These were key factors in our decision to come here. This support, together with our proven success in other key Simon Malls, underlined our belief that Concord, and particularly Concord Mills, is a perfect location for a quality family-based leisure facility.”

SEA LIFE is the world’s biggest aquarium brand with more than 15 million visitors a year and 50 superb attractions in Europe, USA and Asia Pacific. This will be Merlin’s sixth SEA LIFE Center attraction to open in the USA, and SEA LIFE at Concord Mills will highlight all of the qualities which have gained the brand the support and endorsement of marine experts worldwide. Initial plans call for more than 30 spectacular displays of diverse marine life for visitors to enjoy - everything from shrimp and starfish to seahorses, sharks and rays. In keeping with other SEA LIFE attractions, there will also be a unique element reflecting the Carolinas’ location based around the marine creatures most associated with the region. Finally, the stunning centerpiece will be a huge tropical ocean tank with a walk-through underwater tunnel.

The SEA LIFE focus is on quality of experience rather than scale, taking visitors on a seamless journey under the sea, which entertains, inspires and teaches both young and old. The attractions offer everything from viewing windows, giving a glimpse into the ocean itself, to enlightening talks, feeding demonstrations and many other ways to interact directly with some of the creatures. Conservation is also at the heart of the business and visitors will see strong evidence of SEA LIFE’s exciting Breed, Rescue and Protect activities around the world, including new projects developed locally. Merlin calls the SEA LIFE experience “fun learning.”

Set to begin construction during July 2013, SEA LIFE at Concord Mills will be the aquarium of the Carolinas. It will add a new dimension to the existing family-oriented shopping and leisure activities in Cabarrus County. Located close to interstate highways and the airport, as well as the world famous Charlotte Motor Speedway, which welcomes tens of thousands of visitors every year, Concord Mills is already acknowledged as being one of the region’s most important and exciting shopping destinations. It successfully combines quality, big name value retail stores, with some of the best family dining and entertainment venues like SEA LIFE.

“The SEA LIFE aquarium will be a welcome addition to Concord Mills’ successful mix of retail, dining and entertainment concepts,” said Gregg Goodman, president of The Mills. “We look forward to this next exciting venture with Merlin Entertainments and are confident that the millions of visitors who are already drawn to Concord Mills will be attracted to the unique SEA LIFE concept.”

John Cox, president and CEO of the Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation and Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce said, “We are delighted that a global leisure company as dynamic and successful as Merlin is coming to our County, and bringing such a great attraction. It will not only bring jobs to Cabarrus County, but also be a showpiece for the Carolinas. We hope it is just the start of a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Merlin.”

Merlin also operates SEA LIFE aquariums in the USA at LEGOLAND, Calif.; the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Arizona Mills in Tempe, Ariz.; Grapevine Mills, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; and Crown Center Kansas City, Mo.

Merlin currently also has 12 other attractions in North America. These include the LEGOLAND Florida theme park resort and Water Park; LEGOLAND California theme park with its exciting Water Park, SEA LIFE aquarium, and hotel due to open in April this year; Madame Tussauds celebrity wax attractions in New York, Washington DC, Las Vegas and Hollywood; and LEGOLAND Discovery Centers in Chicago; Dallas/Fort Worth; Kansas City Missouri; and Atlanta, Georgia; with two more due to open in the Spring in Westchester, N.Y. and Toronto, Canada.

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Four Great Reasons to Get Your Home Inspected BEFORE You Try to Sell It!

Assistant 2 — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 18:45:00 GMT

Get an Inspection Before Selling Your Home

According to the U.S. General Accounting Office, more than 85 percent of homebuyers who applied for a mortgage also requested an inspection -- not too surprising, since home inspections can reveal hidden flaws and potentially pricey repairs. But even though an inspection can make or break the deal, most sellers wait for the buyer to take the initiative (and chew their nails while awaiting the results). Here are a few reasons why you might benefit from getting your home inspected before you put it on the market.

Reason #1: Reassure prospective buyers.

Even after a walk-through or two, buyers rarely know exactly what to expect from a home inspection -- there's always the possibility of termites gnawing on that rustic log cabin or faulty wiring lurking behind those faux-finished walls. Providing a pre-inspection assures the buyer that no major surprises are in store; while they might not waive their own follow-up inspection, they'll at least feel more comfortable about placing a bid.

Reason #2: Buy time and save dough.

Even in a relatively new or completely renovated home, chances are a home inspector can find a red flag or two. After all, that's their job. When a fault is found during a typical home inspection, you may only have a few days to decide whether to make the repair or adjust the sale price appropriately -- and you'll need to find a solution that satisfies you and the buyer. A pre-inspection gives you more time to compare prices and treatment options from a variety of contractors. You may also avoid conceding a huge chunk of change for unpredictable repair costs like mold remediation or structural work.

Reason #3: Know where you stand.

Generally, your final selling price is determined long before the inspector ever sets foot inside your door. That leaves a huge question mark lingering over your negotiations -- are you going to be forced to drop your final figure again if a major problem is uncovered? By getting an inspection early, you'll know what concessions a buyer might request. That allows you to set your asking price accordingly and find out whether or not you're in a position to play hardball.

Reason #4: Prevent repeat repairs.

No matter how handy you are, there's always a risk of misdiagnosing a problem. But getting your home pre-inspected could help you avoid wasting money on unnecessary repairs. Say your toilet hasn't been flushing quite right, so you pay a plumber to replace it -- only to learn upon inspection that the problem was in your septic system. A pre-inspection helps you avoid doing double-duty, since the inspector can pinpoint the problem and recommend the right repair.

While the average home inspection costs a few hundred dollars, it can save time and money in the long run. To find a home inspector in your area, visit the American Society of Home Inspectors at www.ashi.org.

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Pulitzer Prize winner to speak at Davidson College on Feb. 26th-FREE admission

Assistant 2 — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 19:54:00 GMT

Pulitzer Prize winner to speak at Davidson

Posted by CW Web Adminon February 14, 2013in Davidson College, News|0 Comment

DAVIDSON – The Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Robert A. Caro will speak at Davidson College at 8 p.m. Feb. 26 in the Duke Family Performance Hall.

Admission is free, but tickets are required. Tickets are available for pickup at the Alvarez College Union box office from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekdays.

A reception and book signing will follow the lecture.

Caro has won virtually every major literary honor in American letters for his five major works.

He is best known for his four-volume biography of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, which the London Times called “the greatest biography of our era.”

Caro won his first Pulitzer Prize for “The Power Broker,” a 1975 study of New York politician Robert Moses.

In 2003, his second Pulitzer honored “Master of the Senate,” the third volume of his examination of President Johnson.

Caro’s other honors include two National Book Critics Circle Awards for best nonfiction book of the year, the National Book Award, the Gold Medal in Biography from the National Academy of Arts and the Francis Parkman Prize from the Society of American Historians for the book that “best exemplifies the union of the historian and the artist.”

He also received the National Humanities Medal, awarded by President Barack Obama.

Call the ticket desk at 704-894-2135 for more information.

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Another great ranking for Charlotte, NC!!!

Assistant 2 — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:37:00 GMT

Charlotte among America's best cities for small business

Charlotte is among America's best cities for small business, according to a report from On Numbers.

Jen Wilson

Associate Editor/Online- Charlotte Business Journal

Charlotte scored high marks on a recent analysis of the friendliest places in America for small businesses. The Queen City ranked No. 11— not a bad spot on a list of the nation's 102 major metropolitan areas.

But Raleigh placed even higher, ranking No. 4. Austin, Texas, topped the list for a fourth straight year.

The rankings were determined through an analysis by The Business Journals, a division of Charlotte Business Journal parent American City Business Journals Inc., that used a six-part formula to assign scores based on the concentration of and growth rate among small businesses, population growth, employment growth and other factors.

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Exciting News for Charlotte Area Home Sales!!

Assistant 2 — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:33:00 GMT

Realtors: Annual Charlotte-area home sales soared 40% in January

Susan Stabley

Staff Writer- Charlotte Business Journal

Residential real estate closings in the Charlotte metro area saw a 40 percent spike in January compared with the same period a year earlier, according to the Charlotte Regional Realtors Association’s monthly market activity report released Thursday.

Closings in the 10-county area totaled 2,163 last month, up from 1,541 in January 2011, the report states.

Realtors have been reporting double-digit gains for the Charlotte area for months when it comes to year-over-year figures. Home closings jumped 23.4 percent in December, 35 percent in November and 36.8 percent in October, in comparison with year-earlier levels.

Local industry observers expect 2013 to continue in a steady fashion. This report marks the 12th straight month of positive returns for the Charlotte area.

Still, Eric Locher, association president, urges sellers to remain realistic about their expectations.

“With inventory decreasing and new listings down, we are seeing continued upward pressure on prices, Locher says. “We are a couple of months ahead of the selling season, and it’s a good time for sellers to prep homes for listing, keeping in mind that the property still needs to be realistically priced for what the market will bear.”

Average sales price were flat last month compared with January 2012, rising a mere 0.6 percent to $189,007 from $187,803 a year ago. The median sales price — considered a more accurate measurement of trends over time — increased 2.6 percent to $150,000 from $146,200 year-over-year.

Pending sales are up a whopping 62.3 percent, with contracts increasing year-over-year to 2,925 from 1,802.

But listings dropped 1.3 percent to 3,838 as inventory as plummeted 29.4 percent from this time last year, leaving the region with a five-month supply of houses, the report states.

Average list prices last month rose 2.6 percent to $252,586 from $246,197 a year earlier, as counted through Carolina Multiple Listing Services Inc.

The average amount of time from listing to closing decreased by 10 days year-over-year to 155.

Of the new listings last month, 11.1 percent involved distressed properties, down from 14.4 percent a year earlier, while 18.1 percent of the closings last month were sales of distressed properties, down from 21 percent a year ago.

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The Numbers Are In......Charlotte Got a Huge Economic Boost from the DNC!

Assistant 2 — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 16:02:00 GMT

Democratic National Convention economic impact: $163.6 million

The convention brought $91 million in new spending, study finds; hotel industry was the biggest winner

By Steve Harrison
sharrison@charlotteobserver.com

Posted: Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013

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Obamas and Bidens at the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C. on 09.06.12. This is the final day of the convention. David T. Foster III-dtfoster@charlotteobserver.com
September’s Democratic National Convention injected $91 million in new spending into the local economy, for a total economic impact of nearly $164 million, according to a consultant’s report released Monday.

September’s Democratic National Convention injected $91 million in new spending into the local economy, for a total economic impact of nearly $164 million, according to a consultant’s report released Monday.

The three-day DNC was the city’s largest convention and its most lucrative, local leaders said during a news conference Monday. More than one in five dollars poured into the local economy came from the federal government, through a security grant.

“This is the most direct spending in the history of Charlotte,” said Tom Murray, chief executive of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority.

The visitors group, along with the city of Charlotte and three other groups, hired Tourism Economics to conduct a detailed study of the convention’s dollars. The decision to hire an outside consultant for $25,000 came after the Visitors Authority’s past estimates of economic impact for conventions were found to be wildly inflated.

Tourism Economics said it tried to be conservative in how it calculated visitor spending.

It aimed to determine the amount of money lost because of people staying away from the city during the DNC. It estimated local businesses lost $7.3 million because of the DNC. In determining an economic impact of nearly $164 million, it said it accounted for the fact that much of the hotel industry’s profits didn’t stay in Charlotte.

“Marriott’s profits are going to Maryland,” said Adam Sacks of Tourism Economics.

The economic impact number accounts for more money rippling through the local economy. If a bar sells more beer during the convention, for instance, a beer supplier will also make more money.

The final estimate of $163.6 million is smaller than some previous estimates from host cities. Sacks said it’s possible the actual number could be higher.

In Denver, convention boosters said the 2008 DNC had a total economic impact of $266 million.

Hotels gain the most

Hotels were the biggest beneficiary of the DNC.

The consultant said area hotels booked 61,246 hotel room nights for the DNC, generating $20.9 million in revenue. September was the local hotel industry’s best month in at least four years. Tax revenue for hotels was up more than 80 percent compared to September 2011.

For context, events tied to the Charlotte Convention Center usually book about 150,000 hotel room nights in an entire year. Visitors for the CIAA basketball tournament usually buy about 45,000 of those hotel room nights.

The next biggest category of spending was nearly $20 million. That mostly accounts for equipment bought for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police, as well as overtime paid for officers. The city received a $50 million federal security grant, but the consultant said $30 million of that money left the Charlotte area.

Tourism Economics estimated DNC visitors spent $5.7 million on food and beverage and $5.3 million on ground transportation.

City leaders said the report showed that the DNC was worth it for the city financially. Mayor Anthony Foxx said the city should try for other events, including the Republican National Convention in 2016 and the Super Bowl. He also mentioned that Charlotte could one day host the Olympics.

Bob Morgan, president of the Charlotte Chamber, said the city received valuable exposure.

“Name a network and they were here,” Morgan said. “Charlotte was the story.”

Tax revenue brought in

Though Tourism Economics said it was conservative in tallying how much DNC visitors spent, the group was more generous in estimating how much new tax revenue was generated from the event.

The study said the state received $1.7 million in sales taxes from the DNC. Local governments received $2.2 million in new sales taxes, including the special hospitality tax on hotel and motel rooms.

But the study also assumed local governments received $1.9 million in new property taxes from DNC spending.

The DNC did not create new property that was taxed, at least not at a rate of $1.9 million. Instead, the consultant said, that number was created by estimating the total economic activity from the convention as a share of the region’s total tax base.

Tourism Economics said the DNC spending supported nearly 1,500 jobs. But Sacks acknowledged in an interview those jobs would not disappear this year because there is no political convention in Charlotte.

Tourism Economics said 35,000 people attended the convention, including 15,000 media. Those were the estimates for attendance used before the convention.

The consultant didn’t ask the DNC host committee to count the credentials issued to delegates and media to get an exact number. Republican City Council member Warren Cooksey asked whether a more accurate head count would have produced more accurate spending estimates.

Sacks said Tourism Economics was confident the estimates were correct, based on the number of hotel rooms used.

The report was paid for by the city of Charlotte, Center City Partners, the Charlotte Chamber, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority and the Charlotte Regional Partnership.

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Read more here: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2013/01/29/3818143/dnc-economic-numbers-to-be-announced.html#storylink=cpy

Neighborhood Highlight-River Run in Davidson, NC

Assistant 2 — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 20:32:00 GMT

At River Run, the living is easy and the fun is just around the corner. You can truly appreciate our challenging and highly rated golf course, or enjoy tennis at the modern, 16-court indoor/outdoor complex. There are walking trails that provide scenic views while strolling along or biking. This beautiful tree-lined neighborhood, rightly gives you a sense of community and quaint small-town setting. River Run invites you to experience the gracious tradition of fine living.

River Run is calling your name! With the gorgeous custom homes, living in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, will make you want to call this place home. And with a beautiful country club right in the neighborhood and so many recreational opportunities nearby, fun and entertainment are right at your back step.

River Run is far enough away from the busy city life, but close enough to enjoy all that the Charlotte area has to offer!

• Charlotte-Douglas International Airport: 25 minutes
• Concord Mills Mall: 15 minutes
• Northlake Mall: 20 minutes
• Lake Norman Regional Hospital: 10 minutes
• Presbyterian Hospital – Huntersville: 15 minutes
• Birkdale Village – 10 minutes

Click HERE to read more about Davidson, NC

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Wal-Mart....giving back to those who have served in the military!

Assistant 2 — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 21:04:00 GMT

NEW YORK — Why wait on Washington when there's Wal-Mart?

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer and the biggest private employer in the U.S. with 1.4 million workers here, said Tuesday that it is rolling out a three-part plan to help jumpstart the sluggish U.S. economy.

The plan includes hiring more than 100,000 veterans in the next five years, spending $50 billion to buy more American-made merchandise in the next 10 years and helping its part-time workers move into full-time positions.

The move comes as Wal-Mart tries to bolster its image amid widespread criticism. The company, which often is criticized for its low-paying jobs and buying habits in the U.S., recently has faced allegations that it made bribes in Mexico and calls for better safety oversight after a deadly fire at a Bangladesh factory that supplies its clothes. Wal-Mart said its initiatives are unrelated to those events, but rather are meant to highlight that companies don't have to wait for lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to fix the economy.

"We've developed a national paralysis that's driven by all of us waiting for someone else to do something," Bill Simon, president and CEO of Wal-Mart's U.S. business, said Tuesday at an annual retail industry convention in New York. "The beauty of the private sector is that we don't have to win an election, convince Congress or pass a bill to do what we think is right. We can simply move forward, doing what we know is right."

Any changes that Wal-Mart makes to its hiring and buying practices garner lots of attention because of the company's massive size. Indeed, with $444 billion in annual revenue, if Wal-Mart were a country, it would rank among the largest economies in the world. But critics say the changes amount to a drop in the bucket for the behemoth, and they question whether Wal-Mart's initiatives will have a major impact on the U.S. economy.

"America's largest retailers play an important role in our nation's economy and in the well-being of millions of lives," said Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union. "Retailers like Wal-Mart could provide the nation with a much needed economic boost by paying higher wages and providing stable scheduling – while still remaining profitable and continuing to offer low prices."

The centerpiece of Wal-Mart's plan is a pledge to hire veterans, many of who have had a particularly difficult time finding work after coming home from Afghanistan and Iraq. The unemployment rate for veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan stood at 10.8 percent in December, compared with the overall unemployment rate of 7.8 percent.

Wal-Mart said it plans to hire every veteran who wants a job and has been honorably discharged in the first 12 months off active duty. The program, which will start on Memorial Day, will include jobs mostly in Wal-Mart's stores or in its Sam's Club locations. Some will be at its headquarters, based in Bentonville, Ark. or the company's distribution centers.

Dave Tovar, a Wal-Mart spokesman, said Wal-Mart hasn't worked out the details but it will "match up the veterans' experience and qualifications." Simon, who served in the Navy, said that veterans have "a record of performance under pressure" and "they're quick learners."

"I think that Wal-Mart has a tremendous opportunity to leverage operational skills that today's veterans bring," said Sean Collins, director of G.I. Jobs, a magazine and web site that highlight employment, education and small business opportunities for veterans.

Wal-Mart said first lady Michelle Obama, who spearheaded a White House drive to encourage businesses to hire veterans, has expressed interest in working with Wal-Mart and with the rest of the business community on this initiative.

In the next several weeks, Simon said the White House will meet with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense and major U.S. employers to encourage businesses to make commitments to train and employ American's returning veterans. The first lady on Tuesday called Wal-Mart's announcement "historic."

"We all believe that no one who serves our country should have to fight for a job once they return home," she said in a statement. "Wal-Mart is setting a groundbreaking example for the private sector to follow."

In addition to hiring veterans, Wal-Mart plans to spend $50 billion to buy more products made in the U.S. over the next 10 years. According to data from Wal-Mart's suppliers, items that are made, sourced or grown in the U.S. account for about two-thirds of the company's spending on products for its U.S. business.

Wal-Mart said that it plans to focus on buying more in areas such as sporting goods, fashion basics, storage products, games and paper products. The commitment comes as economics are changing for making goods overseas: Labor costs are rising in Asia, while oil and transportation costs are high and increasingly uncertain.

But even with the additional $5 billion that Wal-Mart plans to spend each year – the breakdown of $50 billion over 10 years – the amount that the company will spend each year on buying goods in the U.S. will only account for 2 percent of its total spending in the country. In the fiscal year that ended in January 2012, Wal-Mart bought $238.8 billion in goods for its U.S. stores.

"They sound impressive when you first hear the numbers but when you begin to look at them, it's a very tiny scale that doesn't add up to much," said Stacy Mitchell, senior researcher at the Institute for Local Self Reliance, a nonprofit national research organization.

The final piece of Wal-Mart's plan is to help part-time Wal-Mart workers transition into full-time employment if they so desire. Among the strategies, Wal-Mart said it will make sure that its part-time workers have "first shot" at the full-time job openings in the stores in their area.

Wal-Mart said the move will give part-time employees much higher earning potential. About 75 percent of its store management start as salespeople, who earn an average of $12.47 hourly. Managers, the company said, can make an average of $50,000 to $170,000 a year.

"There are some fundamental misunderstandings out there about retail jobs, and we need to do better at explaining the opportunities we offer," Simon, Wal-Mart's CEO, said.

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Today Show's real estate analyst is very optimistic about the housing market for 2013! Check out this video!

Assistant 2 — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 18:28:00 GMT

2013=Great Real Estate Market

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Charlotte New Year's Eve-For All Ages!

Assistant 2 — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:18:00 GMT

Charlotte-area New Year's Eve celebrations for all ages

By Hilary Trenda and Brittney Cason
htrenda@charlotteobserver.com

Posted: Friday, Dec. 28, 2012

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Simply Irresistible will perform at First Night Charlotte as celebrants count down to midnight. Photo courtesy of Moira Quinn.
Whether you want to ring in 2013 with a rowdy crowd of confetti-covered strangers or on a quieter, smaller scale, local New Year’s Eve celebrations aren’t hard to find. Here are a handful that caught our eye. (Remember to take a taxi and a brush up on the lyrics to “Auld Lang Syne.”)

Family-friendly

First Night: This alcohol-free salute to community celebration and visual/performance art is back for its fifth year. Events are held at NASCAR Hall of Fame; WBT’s “Holiday on Ice” rink; Charlotte Convention Center’s stage and outdoor terrace; Wells Fargo Atrium; The Green; and Duke Energy Main Stage at Levine Avenue of the Arts. Adult wristbands are $10; kids 5-12 are $5 with a banded adult, 4 and younger are admitted free.

First Night Kids runs noon-5 p.m. and is geared towards families with kids ages 2-10, with storytellers, puppets, mascots, circus performers, dancing and more. Kids Countdown will be 4:40-5 p.m. on Duke Energy Main Stage.

First Night Charlotte is 7-11 p.m. and features silent disco, a mocktail booth, aerialists and entertainment for teens and adults.

“Countdown to Midnight” is 10 p.m.-midnight at Duke Energy main stage, featuring the dance band “Simply Irresistible.”

Details: www.firstnightcharlotte.com.

John Tosco’s third annual variety show: The Tosco Music Party founder’s event is reminiscent of “The Ed Sullivan Show” and features comedy, dance, music and more. 8-10 p.m. at McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. Tickets are $20.12. Details: www.ncbpac.org.

For the adults

Soul in the City: The South Charlotte Chapter of Jack & Jill America will host its annual NYE party 9 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture (551 S. Tryon St.). Tickets are $75 per person (tax-deductible) and include the nouveau Soul Food buffet, cash bar, live and dance music, silent auction and the chance to be the last guests to view the “America I AM: The African American Imprint” exhibit in Charlotte.Details: www.southcharlottejj.org.

Boom! New Year’s Eve Bash: Tickets to last year’s event sold out in two days. This year’s party runs 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at VBGB (920 Hamilton St.) and will include buffet, one drink on the house, and DJ on the tented, heated patio/dance floor. Tickets are $55 for men and $45 for women. Details: www.vbgbuptown.com or in person at VBGB or NoDa Brewing (2229 N. Davidson St.).

Rich and Bennett’s NYE Bash: Phoenix Nightclub (300 N. College St.) hosts three levels of partying, two DJs, party favors and a balloon drop and confetti cannons at midnight. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $55-$75 (includes beer, liquor, wine, champagne and appetizers from Cosmos). Details: www.rockhouseevents.com.

Back to the Future NYE Bash: At Roxbury Nightclub (116 W. Fifth St.), DJ Jody spins hits from the ’80s and ’90s. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $20. Details: 704-375-8090 .

RE:GENESIS: The Sound Council greets the new year at Central Station (2131 Central Ave.) with a glow-friendly 18-and-older party featuring music from Krikett, Madinfluence, Theoretical and more. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $5 cover. Details: 704-313-4430 .

NYE x 2: Big Ben’s British Pub and Restaurant (2000 South Blvd.) will celebrate twice: One countdown will be held at 7 p.m. (midnight in London), and the second will take place in local time. Both celebrations will feature entertainment, champagne and party favors at both seatings. Table reservations are going quick, so calling ahead is strongly recommended. Details: 704-817-9697 ; www.bigbenpub.com.

Livin’ it up at the hotel: The New Year’s Eve party at The Westin (601 S. College St.) is conveniently located – if you pop too much champagne, you can just get a room. DJ Lil Betty spins. 9:30 p.m. No cover; VIP tables (including one bottle of premium champagne and seating for six) are $175. www.cltfun.com. Also at the Westin: Charlotte Salsa Dance Company hosts a Latin Dance Party 9 p.m.-2 a.m. in two of the hotel’s ballrooms. $25 person, or $40 couple. Details: 704-449-8112 .

Dinner and a show: The Comedy Zone (900 NC Music Factory Blvd.) will host two shows featuring headliner Shaun Jones and Carmen Morales: the 8 p.m. dinner show and the 10:15 “Welcoming the New Year” show. The latter will include final countdown to 2013 with champagne toast and party favors. General admission tickets for both shows range from $20 to $30 with dinner and dessert packages available. Details: 980-321-4702 ; www.cltcomedyzone.com.

Dinner and a murder mystery: The Old Courthouse Theatre presents its 22nd annual NYE murder mystery dinner theater and silent auction. Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. in the fifth-floor ballroom at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “Dealt a Deadly Hand – Murder at the Pocono Royale Casino” spoofs “Casablanca” and the dream of hitting the jackpot. $85 per person/$170 per couple includes appetizers, dinner, dessert, wine, champagne toast, party favors, murder mystery and DJ. Details: www.oldcourthousetheatre.org.

Dinner and a party: City Tavern in SouthPark (4331 Barclay Downs Drive) offers a four-course meal for less than $40, then you can burn it off on the dance floor as DJ Rob Reeves spins. Free cover until 10 p.m.; $10 thereafter. Details: 704-442-4000 .

Another dinner and a party: The Grand New Year’s Eve party at 5 Church (127 N. Tryon St.) features a lavish four-course meal, champagne and beats by DJ Edward Shouse. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Levine Children’s Hospital. First seating ($85) is at 5:30 p.m.; second seating ($150) is at 9 p.m. Details: 704-919-1322 .

And another: Celebrate the new year on the waters of Lake Norman with three different cruise options. All include a dinner buffet (tickets start at $75 per person) and the pricier packages ($110-$175 per person) include hotel room and transportation to and from Queen’s Landing, 1459 River Highway, Mooresville. The Catawba Queen boards at 8:30 p.m., departs at 9 p.m. and returns at 12:30 a.m.; Lady of the Lake boards at 9 p.m., departs at 9:30 p.m. and returns at 1 a.m. Details: www.queenslanding.com.

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25 Tips to Having a Stress Free Christmas

Assistant 2 — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 20:33:00 GMT

Christmas 'To Don't' List: What Not To Stress About This Year

Posted: 12/19/2012 8:46 am EST | Updated: 12/19/2012 10:59 am EST-Huffington Post

Between buying and wrapping gifts, playing Santa and prepping and cooking a meal for 12, the joy of the Christmas season can quickly dissolve into stress if you're not careful.

Some simple tactics can help reduce the holiday stress and allow you to enjoy the season more, like letting go of past family arguments and making time for yourself, whether it be to get some extra sleep or go to yoga.

Just in case that's a little easier said than done for you this year, here is your official permission to stop stressing about these 25 things this Christmas. What holiday stressors will you stop worrying about this year? Tell us in the comments below!

1. Spending big bucks on the best presents. A homemade gift can be worth much more.

2. Crafting. On the other hand, if you just don't have the time, no need to stress over homemade gifts, either.

3. Thinking up the perfect present for everyone on your list. A gift certificate for a massage may not be the most personal choice, but she'll like it, we promise.

4. Giving the same gift to multiple people. Unless they live under the same roof, they'll never know!

5. If one of your giftees wants to return your gift. Don't take it personally!

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6. Cooking everything yourself. It's okay to delegate!

7. Staging elaborate scenes with the Elf On The Shelf. Who has the time?

8. A homemade pie crust. No one will notice.

9. A last-minute addition to the guest list. They won't expect an elaborate, personal gift; they'll just be glad to have your company and hospitality.

10. A real Christmas tree.

11. Christmas-themed table decorations.

12. Sending Christmas cards/photos. You keep in touch with the people you want to keep in touch with already. Shoot your other friends a "Thinking of you" email and save yourself the stress of staging the family photo.

13. Arguments. They happen. Move on.

14. Wrapping stocking stuffers. That's what the stocking is for!

15. Attempting to be everywhere at once. Trying to make it to 4 p.m. Christmas dinner at your mom's house, dad's house and significant other's house is physically impossible. Don't ruin your own Christmas just to please others!

16. Accepting every holiday party invitation. It's important to say no to certain things to make time for yourself.

17. Going to church service on Sunday, Christmas Eve service on Monday and Christmas service on Tuesday. If things are getting stressful, just pick one.

18. Preparing a 100 percent traditional meal.

19. Inviting the whole family over for Christmas Eve or Christmas dinner. There's plenty of time to see everyone throughout the holiday season.

20. Professional-caliber wrapping. It gets torn, after all. Why not recycle some newspaper?

21. Spending the same amount of money on each friend/sibling/child. Just because a gift for one of them costs a little extra doesn't mean you love one any more than the other.

22. Dining out. Lots of restaurants are open on Christmas, and you can start a fun tradition. Others will even whip you up a more traditional holiday meal to eat in the comfort of your own home.

23. Buying a card for every present. A simple tag -- even something made out of wrapping paper -- will do.

24. Trying to cram in every single Christmas tradition -- going out to look at lights, building the perfect snowman, making sure you bake the Christmas cookies, having the house all decorated. If you run out of time for one (or a few!) of these traditions, remember: There's always next year!

25. Taking the lights down promptly.

For more ways to de-stress this holiday season, check out these tips from PsychCentral.com Founder, and HuffPost Blogger, Dr. John Grohol:

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When searching for a home, find the right style for you!

Assistant 2 — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:17:00 GMT

Find Your Home Style

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Electrolux adding jobs to Charlotte!

Assistant 2 — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 20:00:00 GMT

Electrolux adding 80 R&D jobs in Charlotte

Appliance maker moving laundry-products research from Iowa to University area

By Ely Portillo
elyportillo@charlotteobserver.com

Posted: Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012

Electrolux said Tuesday it will relocate a laundry-products research center from Iowa to Charlotte, bringing 80 jobs and pushing its Charlotte employment past 800 as the appliance company further expands and centralizes its North American headquarters.

The new positions will include engineering, product design and testing, company officials said. Those product design and testing functions will be stopped at the company’s Webster City, Iowa, facility in the third quarter of 2013.

Electrolux expects the move will build on the design, testing and marketing capabilities already in place at its complex in Charlotte’s University Research Park. The company also has significant engineering and design operations at a facility on Statesville Road.

“We are increasing our R&D investment, moving closer to major science, engineering and technology universities and leveraging on the state-of-the-art research facilities that we already have in Charlotte,” Chris Harris said in a statement. He is vice president of laundry and dish-care products for Electrolux Major Appliances North America.

Electrolux spokeswoman Eloise Hale wouldn’t say whether Electrolux will seek to further consolidate its research and design capabilities in Charlotte. “This is the only announcement we’re making today,” she said.

The new Charlotte jobs will all be focused on washing machines and dryers, said Hale. Product testing in that group includes tests to see how long appliances will last, such as continually opening and closing a dryer door, or running a washing machine continually with a load of heavy towels in it.

The engineering and design work focuses more on innovative designs, such as washing machines that use less water. Electrolux’s capabilities in Charlotte include a high-tech computer-assisted design center. The wall-sized screen is fed by a bank of projectors the size of a small car that shows a three-dimensional virtual model of a potential product, eliminating the weeks-long process of designing physical prototypes.

In 2009, Electrolux announced it would move its North American headquarters to Charlotte from Augusta, Ga.

The company was lured in part by state and local incentives worth up to $27 million – if it brought 738 jobs by 2015. The company’s Charlotte headcount passed 750 this year.

Hale said the employees in Iowa will be eligible for any open positions in the company. Harris said in his statement that Electrolux will help them with their transition.

“This was a difficult but necessary decision,” Harris said. “The company is committed to assisting our Webster City employees and we are making this announcement nearly a year in advance to help with the transition.” Observer staff writer John Arwood contributed.

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Read more here: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/11/28/3691302/electrolux-adding-80-rd-jobs-in.html#storylink=cpy

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