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The Lost Colony 88th Season Opens May 29th, 2025
The Lost Colony 88th Season-Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty is a Proud Corporate Sponsor
The Lost Colony’s 88th season begins May 29th and runs through August 23rd, 2025. The show begins at 8:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday at Waterside Theatre on Roanoke Island. Tickets start at $25. For more information visit www.thelostcolony.org.
Dare Nights at The Lost Colony
Sponsored by Midgett Insurance, Dare Nights, which historically have been performances that Outer Banks locals may attend for free with donations to local food pantries, will take place on May 29th and May 30th. Make plans to arrive early to drop off donation items and receive your free tickets.
Dare Nights May 29th, 2025- Supports The Roanoke Island Food Pantry
Dare Nights May 30th, 2025- Supports The Beach Food Pantry
For more information: www.thelostcolony.org
Also returning for a fourth year is the popular free Native American Pre-Show, performed by indigenous members of the cast on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Investment Property or Vacation Home? Which One is Right for You
Investment Property or Vacation Home? Which One is Right for You
So, you’re thinking about finally investing in that beach house up for sale in your favorite resort town. But will it be your vacation home? Or will you use it as a rental property?
Maybe you’re planning on doing a little of both. Either way, purchasing a property can always be seen as a good long-term investment, whether you plan on generating rental income or not. However, mortgage lenders and the IRS will define your home as either a personal residence or investment property.
Here are some of the main differences between vacation homes and investment properties.
Vacation Homes
A vacation home, or second home, is a residence that you plan to occupy for part of the year. It’s typically used as a vacation home but could also be used as a property that you visit on a regular occasion—such as an apartment in a city you visit frequently for work. Typically, vacation homes must be located a certain distance from your home, or in a resort area, such as the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
A second home is a reasonable distance from your primary home. You must occupy the home some portion of the year and you cannot typically own another home in the same area.
Borrowers who want to purchase a vacation home must have enough income to qualify for monthly payments and will typically need a sizable downpayment.
The downpayment amount will vary depending on the loan type and the lender, so it’s best to speak with a loan officer about your situation when trying to determine how much is needed for your downpayment.
To qualify for a second home, a borrower must ensure that the home will be occupied only as a second home and that the property will be kept available for the borrower’s exclusive use and enjoyment. This means that the borrower cannot use the home solely as a time-share or rental home.
When purchasing a second home, your lender will want to ensure that the owner intends to occupy and control the home. Also, even if there is seasonal rental income on the home, you cannot use any rental income for qualifying.
This doesn’t mean you can’t rent out your vacation home on occasion, which is a common misconception.
Your vacation home is considered a dwelling unit if you use it for personal purposes for 14 days during a taxable year or use it 10 percent of the total days you rent it out to others.
For instance, if you occupy your vacation home for 20 days throughout the year, it is still considered as a vacation home—unless you rent it out more than 180 days throughout the taxable year. You should consult your tax advisor for more details.
In fact, borrowers may rent out their vacation home 14 days throughout the taxable year without reporting any income to the IRS. You cannot deduct expenses associated with renting the property, but can still deduct mortgage interest, real estate taxes and casualty and theft losses, according to the IRS.
Locally property management companies allow homeowners to be absentee owners but still have full control to use the property whenever they want for however long they would like. The property management company can help you keep track of rental usage and report it to the IRS.
Investment/Rental Homes
An investment property is not your primary residence, and it is purchased in order to generate income, profit from appreciation, or to take advantage of certain tax benefits.
An investment property is a true investment, purely for rental income or for clients who own multiple homes in the same area.
Borrowers purchasing an investment home will likely need to put more money down than they would for a second home. Under some circumstances, projected rental income can be used to help qualify the borrower for an investment property.
The biggest difference in qualifying for an investment property and vacation home is that the reserve assets needed on an investment property is greater, and rental income could be used to qualify for an investment property.
Rental properties allow for personal use, but it is limited to no more than 14 days or 10 % of the number of days it is rented out.
All rental income must be reported to the IRS. You can write off expenses from your rental homes, such as mortgage interest, property tax, operating expenses, depreciation, and repairs. You must, however, pay taxes on the profit that you earn on the rental property after expenses, according to the IRS.
Looking for more information on an investment property or second home?
Visit cbseaside.com and reach out to work with one of our exceptional agents!
The information contained herein (including but not limited to any description of TowneBank Mortgage, its affiliates and its lending programs and products, eligibility criteria, interest rates, fees and all other loan terms) is subject to change without notice. This is not a commitment to lend.
* TowneBank Mortgage is not a tax consultant. Contact your tax advisor for more details.
Q1 2025 SuperStars
Congrats to our Q1 Superstars!
Q1 #1 in Sales Volume-Cameron Griggs
Q1 #1 in Listings-Brook Sparks
Q1 #1 in Units-Emily Bray
Q1 #1 Team in Listings & Units Sold The Heather Sakers Team
Q1 #1 Team in Listings The Heather Vandermyde Group
Earth Day 2025
Earth Day: Celebrating Our Planet and Taking Action for a Sustainable Future
Every year on April 22nd, millions of people across the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring action to protect the planet. Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has grown into a global movement, with individuals, communities, businesses, and governments all playing a role in shaping a more sustainable world.
The Origins of Earth Day
Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson in response to a growing concern over environmental degradation. At the time, air and water pollution were major public concerns, and the use of pesticides was leading to significant harm to wildlife and ecosystems. The first Earth Day, held in 1970, sparked nationwide environmental protests, led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and helped to pass important environmental legislation, such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act.
What started as a national movement soon turned into a global initiative, as people from all walks of life began organizing to fight for environmental protection. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in more than 190 countries, and its influence is more powerful than ever.
Why Earth Day Matters
Earth Day serves as an important reminder that our planet is fragile, and its resources are finite. From climate change and deforestation to pollution and biodiversity loss, the world faces numerous environmental challenges. Earth Day is an opportunity to take stock of our impact on the environment, reflect on the changes we can make, and take collective action to reverse some of the damage we’ve done.
On Earth Day, we’re not just celebrating nature; we’re advocating for its protection. This day serves as a call to action to reduce our carbon footprint, conserve water, support renewable energy, and protect wildlife habitats. It also encourages us to shift our mindset from one of consumption to one of sustainability, recognizing that small changes in our everyday lives can have a significant, long-term impact on the planet.
How You Can Make a Difference
While Earth Day may only come once a year, the need to care for the environment is a year-round responsibility. Here are some ways you can make a positive impact, not just on Earth Day, but every day:
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Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Be mindful of your consumption patterns. Reduce waste by purchasing items with less packaging, reusing materials when possible, and recycling whenever you can.
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Plant Trees: Trees are vital to our ecosystem, providing oxygen, improving air quality, and supporting biodiversity. Planting trees or supporting reforestation projects is an easy and impactful way to contribute to a healthier planet.
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Save Energy: Turn off lights when not in use, unplug electronics, and consider energy-efficient appliances. Even simple actions like using natural light during the day can make a difference.
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Support Renewable Energy: Advocate for and support policies that encourage the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. If possible, consider switching to a green energy provider.
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Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives: Volunteer with local environmental organizations, participate in clean-up events, or support community gardens. Local actions can have a big impact on the health of your surrounding environment.
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Educate Yourself and Others: One of the most powerful tools we have is knowledge. Learn more about environmental issues, and share that knowledge with others to inspire more widespread action.
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Support Sustainable Products: Choose products that are eco-friendly, from clothing to food to household goods. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, USDA Organic, or Energy Star to ensure that what you’re buying is helping, not harming, the planet.
Outer Banks Earth Day Events
Earth Fair-Earth Day Celebration Jockey’s Ridge
April 22 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
More information
Come celebrate Earth Day with the Coastal Environmental Educators Network. This free event will take place at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park visitor center parking area. The event will bring together many Outer Banks organizations that offer environmental education, so you’ll be sure to learn something new from the groups that are working hard to preserve the delicate ecosystems of the Outer Banks. Share your love for the natural world and check out our fun and informative exhibits and activities for kids. Walk around and explore the exhibitors, state-of-the-art Visitors Center, and other features of the State Park!
Earth Day & Plant Swap
Saturday April 26th 10-1pm
RWS Community Building
More Information
The third annual Earth Day Celebration and Plant Swap. Come visit members and organizations, Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative (with their electric vehicle), Hatteras Library, Surfrider Federation, NPS, NC Cooperative Extension, Master Gardeners and more.
Conclusion
Earth Day is more than just a symbolic day of recognition; it’s a movement that reminds us of our interconnectedness with nature and our responsibility to protect it. As we face environmental challenges that threaten the future of our planet, Earth Day is a time to reflect on what we can do to make a difference.
So this Earth Day, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the planet we call home—and then take action. Small steps, when taken by many, can create a world of change. The future of our planet depends on what we do today, and together, we can build a more sustainable and equitable world for generations to come.
Happy Earth Day! 🌍
Easter Family Events on the Outer Banks
Outer Banks Easter events that are perfect for the entire family
The Easter holiday is a popular time for many families to visit the Outer Banks, as it usually coinsides with Spring Break. Locals embrace the change of pace and more visitors and everyone welcomes the warmer temperatures! We have complied a list of some not-to-miss Easter events-perfect for the whole family to enjoy!
Easertide at Elizabethan Gardens
April 19th 10am-2pm
www.elizabethangardens.org
Kitty Hawk Kites Easter Eggstravaganza
April 19th 10:30am-1:15 pm
www.kittyhawk.com
Fly Into Spring Kite Festival-Jockey’s Ridge State Park
April 18-19th, 2025
www.kittyhawk.com
Happy Easter from the Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty Team!
Outer Banks Taste of the Beach
Outer Banks Taste of the Beach April 4-6, 2025
Mark your calendars for the Outer Banks Taste of the Beach Weekend! This year, the event will be held April 4-6 with participating restaurants from Currituck County, as north as Duck, NC-all the way south to Hatteras Island! Taste and sip your way through this popoular Outer Banks spring event.
Outer Banks Taste of the Beach Participating Restaurants:
Barefoot Bernie’s
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe
Black Pelican Seafood Co
Dirty Dick’s Crab House
Good Winds Restaurant
Hurricane Mo’s
Jolly Roger Restaurant
Lost Colony Tavern
NC Coast Grill & Bar
Outer Banks Brewing Station
Red Sky Casual Dining
Roadside Bar & Grill
Sanctuary Vineyards
Sandtrap Tavern
Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill
Shore Coffee Roasters
Simply Southern Kitchen
Swellsa Brewing Duck Dive Bar
The Saltbox Cafe
TRIO
Outer Banks Holiday Events
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you are an Outer Banks resident full-time or part-time or a visitor, Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has your guide to holiday happenings in the area.
From local restaurant events, holiday markets, parades, lights, Santa Claus appearances and more, our Outer Banks Holiday Events list continues to grow-check back often!
Outer Banks Holiday Events
WinterLights at The Elizabethan Gardens- November 22-December 28, select nights. The 15th annual draw-dropping light display is one not to miss. The 10 acre botanical gardens is transformed into a Winter Wonderland!
Adults: $22, Children under 17: $14, Pet Friendly
More Information: www.elizabethangardens.org
Kites With Lights at Jockey’s Ridge Presented by Kitty Hawk Kites-November 30th, 2024. From 4 – 7 PM, experience a light display like no other. Kites with Lights, at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, features large 19-to-30-foot kites decked out in the spirit of the holiday season! At 5 PM, enjoy the lighting of the Jockey’s Ridge State Park Solar Christmas tree out on the dunes directly across from Jockey’s Ridge Crossing. Warm beverages are available across the street at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing. All donations benefit the Friends of Jockey’s Ridge.
Hangin’ with Santa-Kitty Hawk Kites-Nags Head. Share all your Christmas wishes and have your picture taken with Santa at Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing in Nags Head on Friday, November 29th from 10 AM – 2 PM, and Saturday, November 30th from 1 – 4 PM.
More information: www.kittyhawk.com
The 12 Bars of Christmas-Opening November 29th. 12 festive pop-ups, fully decked out in holiday cheer! More details can be found here: 12barsofchristmas.com
Theatre of Dare Presents: Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus-A young girl writes a letter to the editor of the New York Sun. “Dear Editor, I am eight years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says if you see it in the Sun, it’s so. Please tell me the truth. Is there a Santa Claus?” Ed Mitchell, the editor, assigns Frank Church—a reporter on the verge of self destruction—the task of answering Virginia’s question. Church’s quest and reply have become one of the world’s most quoted and beloved editorials. Radio Drama by Andrew J. Fenady, Directed by Gail Hutchison.
Performances: December 7, 12, 13 & 14 at 7:30 p.m.
December 8 & 15 at 2:00 p.m. Individual show tickets go on sale November 16
View more information here:Visit Website
Holiday Markets:
Soundside Holiday Market at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head-11/24, 12/1, 12/15 12PM – 4PM
Featuring photos with Santa Claus, an appearance (or two) from the Grinch, a live camp fire to keep your hands and toes warm, Christmas tunes to sing along to, food trucks AND 60+ of your favorite Outer Banks local makers and artisans will offer a little something for everybody.
First Flight Holiday Market-Aviation Park, KDH-Get ready to shop, eat, and experience all the festive fun because the holiday markets are officially starting soon! From handmade gifts to delicious treats, community vibes to holiday music, there’s something for everyone at our markets! Don’t miss out—mark your calendars, grab your friends, and get ready to shop, snack, and spread cheer!
More information: Visit Website
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season-full of cheer!
Check back often for updates on local OBX Holiday Events!
2024 Outer Banks Real Estate Q3 Results
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty is proud to be leading the Outer Banks real estate market for the third quarter of 2024!*
Q3 2024 Ranking by volume:
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty | $251,947,387
Q3 2024 Ranking by units sold:
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty | 382
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty Q3 Super Stars
| Top 5 Teams: 1. The VanderMyde Group 2. The Driscoll Team 3. The Heather Sakers Team 4. The Sandman Team 5. The Beth Garcia Team |
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| Top 5 Agents: 1. Brook Sparks 2. Cameron Griggs 3. Emily Bray 4. Melissa Morgan 5. Heather Huling |
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*Based on information provided by the Outer Banks Association of Realtors. 1/1/24-09/31/24.
**Based on information provided by the Outer Banks Association of Realtors. 1/1/14-09/31/24.
Top Ten Reasons to Work With CBSR
Top Ten Reasons to Work With The Coldwell Banker Brand
#1
118 YEARS OF GUIDING PEOPLE HOME
For 118 years, the Coldwell Banker brand has served clients with honesty, integrity and real estate expertise.
#2
LOCAL LEGACY OF SUCCESS
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty is locally owned and operated and recently celebrated their
32-year anniversary!
#3
GLOBAL NETWORK
The Coldwell Banker network includes 100,000 agents across 40 countries and is #1 in Agent Loyalty.
#4
COLDWELL BANKER IS THE #1 REAL ESTATE BRAND ONLINE
Home buyers are online, and more of them are visiting Coldwell Banker® sites than other real estate brands, which means your property gains better exposure and more qualified buyers.
#5
PROVEN SUCCESS NATIONALLY
Affiliated agents handled 481,548 transaction sides in the U.S. in 2023. In fact, we’ve guided more home buyers and sellers than any other company in the history of America.
#6
PROVEN SUCCESS LOCALLY
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has sold the most real estate on the Outer Banks for 10 consecutive years*. The
#7
THE MOST TOP PRODUCING AGENTS
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has the most agents in the Top 100** of the Outer Banks MLS!
#8
LUXURY MARKETING
Backed by their Global Luxury Marketing Program, in 2023 Coldwell Banker agents sold more over $200 million in luxury homes daily, with each sale exceeding $1 million.
#9
GIVING BACK
Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has donated over $165,000 in the past 5 years alone to local charitable organizations.
#10
FULL SERVICE
We are there for you in all aspects of your home buying or selling journey. Our goal is to ensure you receive 5-Star service from start to finish!
For the 10th year in a row, Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has sold the most real estate on the
Outer Banks! With over 32 years of local knowledge and experience, our family-owned and operated company offers real estate services across the entire Outer Banks as well as all of northeastern
North Carolina.
Visit cbseaside.com and use the CB Estimate tool to learn what your home is worth.
Search all listings at cbseaside.com or call us at (888) 939-4119
Benefits of Buying On The Outer Banks This Fall
Fall Buying on the Outer Banks
While the real estate market is dynamic and can change throughout the year, there are several compelling reasons to consider buying a home in the fall of 2024.
Cooling Market Leads to Less Competition
As we move into the fall of 2024, many experts predict that the housing market will continue to cool down from its peak in recent years. This cooling trend can offer several advantages for buyers, including:
• Reduced Competition: Fewer buyers in the market often leads to less competition for properties, potentially resulting in lower prices or fewer bidding wars.
• More Negotiating Power: With less competition, buyers may have more leverage to negotiate favorable terms with sellers, such as lower prices, seller concessions, or closing cost assistance.
• More Time to Consider Options: The slower pace of the fall market can give you more time to carefully consider different properties, negotiate favorable terms, and make a well-informed decision.
Mortgage Interest Rates Have Decreased
Mortgage rates have dropped over the recent months and could drop further this fall depending on the policy set forth by the Federal Reserve. Purchasing this fall could allow you to take advantage of lower interest rates without increased competition.
You’ll See the Neighborhood in Action
Buying in the fall allows you to check out potential homes when neighborhoods are bustling with back to school activities. You can see where your child’s bus stop would be, get a good feel for how many kids are in the neighborhood and you can visit the school itself, while classes are in session.
Less Sales Means More Attention for You
Moving companies aren’t as busy, so it is easier to schedule your moving date. It’s also a great time to get a lot of attention from your REALTOR® and Mortgage Loan Officer.
Take Advantage of Those Year-End Sales
If your house is a fixer upper, jack pot! The fourth quarter can be a great time for renovations. Fall is the time to save on new floors, windows, cabinets, air conditioning, really anything that is considered off season. Companies and tradesmen want to keep their people busy and are willing to give you a price break as incentive.
Don’t fret fall house hunting! Take advantage of all that fall has to offer and get into your beautiful new home in time for the holidays.
Experts Say We’re Not in A Bubble
The housing bubble that burst in 2008, causing crippling economic repercussions and lead to the Great Recession, was primarily driven by lenders extending credit to those who were not qualified. There is one huge difference between now and 2008 – lenders have raised their requirements for securing a mortgage. As a result, average credit scores are higher, more documentation is needed, and loans are more proportionate to the borrower’s income. If you’re waiting for a bubble to pop, it might be time to reconsider.
Looking into buying an Outer Banks home this fall?
The information contained herein (including but not limited to any description of TowneBank Mortgage, its affiliates and its lending programs and products, eligibility criteria, interest rates, fees and all other loan terms) is subject to change without notice. This is not a commitment to lend.
