Chatham County Relocation Package

Everything You Need to Know About Relocating 

Near Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Apex, Pittsboro or Jordan Lake!

What is Chatham County, NC Like?

Chatham County has the best of all worlds.  It's peaceful countryside - but just minutes from shopping and big city life. 

North Carolina has over 1500 lakes, and Chatham County surrounds one of the largest of these: Jordan Lake.   There are golf courses, wineries, and the Haw River. 

Whether you're looking for a multi-million dollar estate in an exclusive golf community, or an affordable new custom home on land of your own, you'll find something you love in Chatham County. 

Chatham County is becoming "home" for people who want access to the careers, nightlife, culture, and education that the Triangle has to offer, but want to start their days at a little slower pace, on patios and decks, enjoying views of starry skies, brilliant sunrises, leafy woods, and green meadows.

Here are some of the highlights of Chatham County, plus links to area resources! 

Natural Resources in Chatham County, NC 

Let's start with the most visible symbol of Chatham County - Jordan Lake. 

With over 14,000 surface acres of water, the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and more - all within 20 minutes of Raleigh, NC.

Find out more here:

Jordan Lake NC - Water Activities, Picnics and More - Just Southwest of Raleigh!

 Jordan Lake Camping - Parkers Creek Campground - Best Places to Camp in the Raleigh Area!

 The Haw River descends through Chatham County.  It first touches Chatham County just east of Eli Whitney, then winds itself southeast between Fearrington and the Chapel Ridge Golf Club, goes through fingers of Jordan Lake, then finally empties into the Cape Fear River at the border of Chatham County and Lee County.

Haw River - Kayaking, Canoeing, Whitewater Rafting and More, Just Outside Raleigh, NC

 

Want to Get Outside?  There are plenty of beautiful places to walk, hike, ride a bike, or even take your horse:

Want to Hike in the Raleigh Area? Spend a Few Hours on the American Tobacco Trail!

 

 

 

Get a Feel for the Country Life in Chatham County, NC

There are small towns and country crossroads, all just outside of Chapel Hill and Raleigh.  Read more about a few of the top areas of Chatham County:

Take a tour of Pittsboro, NC.  This growing town offers small-town living, not too far from all the action.

Pittsboro, NC - Just Outside Raleigh and Chapel Hill - Chatham County Relocation Package

Silk Hope, NC - Find out about this country community, and why you won't want to miss it.

What is Silk Hope, NC? Find Out More About This Beautiful Chatham County Community

Wine Tastings and Tours -

Enjoy the fruits of the harvest in Chatham County.

Wineries Near Raleigh NC - Haw River Wine Trail - Here's 7 Great Wineries to Taste and Tour!

Arts and Crafts -

Monthly small town festivals are just part of the attraction.

Raleigh Area Arts and Crafts - "First Sunday" in Pittsboro - Fun Things to Do

Old Fashioned Farmers Day - Labor Day Weekend in Chatham County, NC! 

Where to Shop and Eat in Chatham County 

But as peaceful and beautiful as the countryside is, there's plenty to do if you like to shop.  Check out a few of the local shopping options:

Chatham Downs - Shopping off 15/501 in Chatham County - Groceries, Coffee, Banking and More

Southern Village in Chapel Hill - Eat and Shop after a Day at Jordan Lake

The grocery shopping options are nearly endless.  We decided to share a couple of our favorites:

An Adventure in Groceries - Checking out the local Whole Foods market

Trader Joe's in the Triangle - Out of the Ordinary Grocery Shopping  

And there's plenty of great places to eat too! 

Carolina Brewery - Chapel Hill and Pittsboro - House Brews, Great Food, and all the UNC Games You Can Watch!

Where to Work in Chatham County, NC

Where do residents of Chatham County work?  Many work in Chapel Hill or Apex, but many more work throughout the Triangle, including at great companies in Raleigh and Durham.

Top Family Friendly Companies in the Raleigh/Triangle Area - And What To Do To Get Hired 

Best Places to Find a Job in Chapel Hill NC - The Top 10 Employers in Orange County (Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough)

Top 10 Employers in Chatham County NC - Looking for a Job in Chatham County?

Research Triangle Park (RTP) - Top Companies and How To Get a Job

Major Employers in the Raleigh Area - And Available Job Opportunities!

 

 

All the Essentials - Banks and Hospitals in Chatham County

The Raleigh/Triangle area has some of the nation's top rated hospitals, and the UNC Hospitals at Chapel Hill are no exception.

UNC Hospitals at Chapel Hill - What do they offer? How good are they? How do I get there?  

If you're moving - chances are, you'll need a new bank.  Here's our guide to Chatham County area banks:

Relocating and Banking in the Triangle - Overview of Banks in Chapel Hill/Carrboro/Pittsboro

Schools - Private and Public

Private Schools in Chapel Hill NC - What Are They and How Much Do They Cost? - Raleigh NC Relocation Package

MBA Programs in the Raleigh, NC Area - How to Get Started with a Great University 

Places to Live and Property Taxes

We'll continue to profile some of the best places to live in Chatham County. 

Here's just a sample of some of the top Chatham County new home communities:

Cattail Creek - Custom Homes on Wooded Acreage

Cedar Grove - Custom Homes on Wooded Acreage in the $400s to $500s

The Preserve at Jordan Lake - Luxury Golf Course Homes in the $400s to $700s

Chatham County Available Lots and Land - Build a Home Near Chapel Hill, NC

How to Find Land for Horses in the Triangle Area of North Carolina 

Compare Property Tax Rates: 

Find rates for just about every Triangle area county here, and compare with Chatham County property tax rates.

Alamance County Property Tax Rates 2011

Cumberland County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Chatham County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Durham County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Franklin County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Granville County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Johnston County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Harnett County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Orange County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

Wake County NC Property Tax Rates 2011

 

 

Golf - Enjoy the Rolling, Wooded Landscapes!

The Preserve at Jordan Lake Golf Club - Golf in Chatham County

We'll continue to expand our Chatham County Relocation Package, so check back often! 

Here are some more terrific links to Chatham County information:

 

Chatham County Day Care Provider Lookup

Chatham County - NC School Report Cards

Chatham County Schools - "Building the Future, One Child at a Time"

UNC Chapel Hill

Pittsboro/Siler City/Chatham County Attractions

Chatham County Golf Courses

 

Chatham County Dining - Eat Out in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, Siler City, or Carrboro

Chatham County Shopping - Places to Shop in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Pittsboro, Siler City, Apex, and More

Looking for Great Child Care?

 How To Find Child Care In Chatham County, NC - Pittsboro, Siler City, and Jordan Lake

Are You Looking for a New Home?

If you're considering building a home in the Chatham County area, take a look at our guides and tips.  As a Raleigh custom homes builder, we're happy to share what to look for, and what to avoid when buying a home or having a home built on your lot.

Build On Your Lot in Chatham County, NC

How to Determine a Reasonable New Home Budget

Chatham County Accessible Home Builders

Golf Community Homes in Chatham County

Green Building - What's in a Green Home?

Mother in Law Suite Floor Plans Chatham County 

 

Raleigh Recreation - Raleigh Relocation Package

North Carolina Ski Resorts

Enjoy the Snow in NC! Day and Weekend Ski Trips

Do you love the beautiful white slopes? Can't wait for winter to roll around so you can strap on your skis and glide down the mountain? Whether you are a long time resident or just thinking of moving to the area, here is a list of the North Carolina slopes to help keep your winter fever in check.

Appalachian Ski Mountain 

940 Ski Mountain Rd
Blowing Rock, NC 28605

Located just off of U.S. 321 near the Blue Ridge Parkway, about a 3.5 hour drive from the Raleigh area, Appalachian Ski Mountain is open now through mid-March.  With 10 slopes and a total of 4 lifts and a handle-tow, there is plenty of ways to get up the mountain. Appalachian also offers outdoor ice skating and many special events such as Ladies Park Night. Weekday life tickets start at $25 for kids, Seniors and Military and $33 for general admission. Weekend rates are $36-$50. If you need rental equipment, rates run from $9-$21 for the day. For more rates and information, please check out their website. If you would like to make a weekend trip, you can stay in one of four Chalets all within a mile of the slopes. Please click here for more information.

Cataloochee Ski Area

About a four and a half hour drive from the Raleigh area, Cataloochee is just off U.S. 19 near Maggie Valley.  You can find directions and maps here. With weekday rates starting at $24 for kids, and $31 for adults, there are also student and half day rates.  Weekends run from $41-$51 for a full day lift ticket. Equipment rental is also available running from $16-$22. Starting January 14^th, every Wednesday is family day and children 17 and under are free with an adult ticket purchase. Check out more details on their Kids Ski Free program here. With three lifts and 3 conveyors, half of the slopes geared towards intermediate skiers, there are also many choices for beginners and advanced skiers. To save time in line once you get there, print two copies of the rental form in advance and get ready to strap your ski's on!

Beech Mountain Resort

1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy
Beech Mountain, NC 28604

The highest ski area in Eastern America, Beech Mountain is about four hours from the Raleigh area. Beech Mountain offers 15 trails, 10 lifts and 95 acres of beautiful snow to glide down. Rates start at $38 for full day regular admission and $30 for kids and seniors, for additional rates here are the details. Starting December 19^th, night skiing will be available. Beech Mountain also has two terrain parks as well as outdoor ice skating and snow tubing, both of which are offered this weekend. In addition to other specials, military personnel and their immediate family members get discounted lift tickets. Grab your hats and gloves and come on out!

Sugar Mountain  Resort

1009 Sugar Mountain Drive

Banner Elk, NC 28604

Just under four hours away from Raleigh, Sugar Mountain is open for the season through March. General admission for lift tickets is $39 on weekdays and $64 on weekends and holidays. Children start as $30 for weekdays and $43 for weekend lift tickets. Sugar Mountain offers discounts for all students and military personnel, just make sure that you have your ID with you.  Ski Equipment rental is also available. If you are not into skiing, Sugar Mountain also offers snow tubing and ice skating with rates from $15-$25. With 20 slopes, 6 lifts and several terrain styles to fit different levels of skiers, there is something for everyone. If you are looking for a getaway weekend, consider the New Year's Eve Celebration Package, or Sugar Mountain Lodging.

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Four and a half hours from Raleigh and just half an hour from Asheville, Wolf Ridge has been rated best ski slopes in Western North Carolina. With five lifts, 20 slopes and 82 acres of skiing area, Wolf Ridge is just waiting for you to show up. Rates start at $36 on weekdays and $52 on weekends for adults, with discounts for children and students with valid ID. Ski and snowboard rentals run from $14-$30 each. The inner tube run is open all day and starts at $15 per hour with children six and under free with a paying adult.  Cabin rentals and lodging is available for weekend getaways and special events.

Go Hit the Slopes! 

Now that you know where to go, grab your ski gear, hats, gloves and your friends and head out for a day or the weekend to enjoy the beautiful snowy North Carolina Mountains.

 

Raleigh NC New Home Resources - How to Build a Custom Home in Raleigh

 

Raleigh NC New Home Builders

 

Build On Your Lot in Raleigh, NC

 

Accessible Homes NC – Accessible Builders in Raleigh

 

Acreage Lots for Sale Raleigh, NC

 

Golf Course Communities – New Homes on a Golf Course in Raleigh

 

Raleigh, NC New Home Lots and Land

 

Most Up-to-Date Raleigh Market Reports - How is the Housing Market in Raleigh?

 

The Raleigh area market has remained much stronger than almost anywhere else in the country - and overall appreciation rates are still at a POSITIVE 4% for the year, after steady 4-6% appreciation over the past 5 years.

But this post, and other articles like it, may be good news for anyone trying to sell another property out of state so that they can move in to their new home in Raleigh! 

And one more thing that it doesn't mention:  the $7500 tax credit for first time homebuyers, which several buyers I know are taking advantage of right now.

Thanks, Debe, for sharing these articles!

EnergyWise Homes - Save 50% to 70% on Heating and Cooling!

Would you like a guarantee that your heating and cooling bills won't exceed a set amount?  How about a guarantee that you will save 50% to 70% on heating and cooling, versus a conventional home?

That's what a home built with EnergyWise building technology will do for you.  Not only will your bills be lower every month, but your new Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC home will feature:

- Consistent humidity levels that eliminate mold and dust mites

- Healthy indoor air with less pollen and dust

- Relief from excess outdoor noises

- Elimination of hot and cold spots throughout the home

EnergyWise has engineered more than 40,000 homes and commercial buildings over the past thirty years.  And now Stanton Homes is one of a handful of Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill builders able to offer EnergyWise options in new homes.

Real Life Example - $38 Per Month!

This 2,542 square foot Texas home engineered by EnergyWIse is guaranteed at just $38 per month for the heating, cooling, and hot water bills!

Even when it's freezing outside, EnergyWise building techniques guarantee that the heating and cooling bill will average no more than $38 per month.

We don't know any other company that offers this kind of guarantee.

How can they do that?

Find out what makes an EnergyWise home different here.

 

 

Green Home Builders in North Carolina - Green Building Resources

Bayer MaterialScience High Performance Residential Program - Guaranteed Savings

Bayseal Spray Foam Insulation

Green Building - What's in a Green Home?

What Is Geothermal?  Homes with Geothermal Heating and Cooling

Green Home Features Available in Raleigh

Building a Home in the Raleigh NC Area

Site Work is Essential When Building a Home - Here's What to Look For

Top Questions for Raleigh Custom Homes

"What does 'site work' mean?  I've seen some home prices that say 'does not include site work'.  What is it that's not included, and how much should I add to the total cost of the home?"

This is an essential question to ask for anyone looking at building a home. 

The Definition of "Site Work" Can Vary

You'll want to get specifics.  In some cases, "site work" can include quite a few costly items.   

• Lot Clearing
• Foundation Preparation
• Rough Grading
• Final Grading
• Landscaping
• Driveways
• Walkways
• Permits and Fees
• Septic or Sewer
• Well or Water

and even electrical hook up may all be considered "site work" by some builders.  

What's the Price Tag?

These costs can add up to 10% or more to the total construction costs - it depends on several factors.  Some counties cost more to build in than others.  A complex septic system can add to cost.  A sloped or heavily wooded lot will cost more to prepare than a flat meadow lot.

Include Site Work in Your Total Quote

In most cases, you're better off with a construction quote that includes these costs, rather than financing the actual "construction" portion (and paying a deposit), then financing these costs out of pocket.  

When you receive a bid, make sure that each of these items is included, AND is specific to your lot or piece of land, if you're already selected a location.  For example, it won't help you if your building permit allowance covers the costs for one inexpensive county - but not the county you're planning to live in.  Also, consider the allowance amounts. 

Most builders will set up excavation and site work as allowances, as there can be unforeseen challenges.  Take the allowance amounts into consideration when comparing bids.  Make sure the builder has seen your lot, and is familiar with the area you're building in.  If you like a builder who has low allowances, you may want to consider asking that the allowances be raised somewhat so that all costs are more likely to be covered.

Get all the Details in Writing

A valid bid should be detailed enough that you know exactly what is going in to your new home at each stage of construction, so that there are no surprises during or after the project.

We're happy to help homebuyers compare several different bids, and answer any questions on materials or allowances specified.  The more details your builder provides, the better informed your decision will be.

 

 

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5 Steps to Buying a Lot