Bryan

If an agent were truly qualified in their field (there aren't very many in Chapel Hill) then a retainer is acceptable and in some markets I have no problem paying one. But most realtors, especially the ones in this area, just want to unlock doors and run around doing a bunch of nothing and they don't add any value to the real estate buying process as they only care about making their 6% commission so I certainly haven't found any worth giving a retainer too, and I certainly don't want to work with an agent that can't afford to drive around and pay for gas or take me to lunch. - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:30

In Chapel Hill I would recommend Downing Creek and Falconbridge as there are plenty of properties that can be purchased for under $200K and the neighborhoods are quite safe. Hope Valley Farms is not too safe unfortunately, but if you go to Woodcroft it is quite safe as I walk there regularly. The best thing to do is go to the local police department and ask the for a given area how many calls they respond to during a month period - it is quite telling! - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:21

Realtors in this area will always lie and say they are increasing (just look at the answer provided by the ostrich with her head in the sand below). All you have to do is look at the final sale prices of CLOSED homes and you will see that yes indeed, Chapel Hill has seen a drastic decrease in final selling prices. Real Estate agents always like to skew data and yes prices have fallen so don't be fooled by their lack of expertise or experience in the Chapel Hill market. - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:17

I would recommend Kensington Trace as all of the maintenance is up to date and they replaced the roof and the polybutelene pipes withing the past 2 years. It is quite affordable at $115K. If you have more money to invest I would recommend the condos at Kirkwood and Southern Village and Meadowmont as they all are priced to appreciate. The Rosemary St condos are quite affordable at $300K and an excellent location for walking to campus if that is of importance and she doesn't wish to ride the bus. Whatever you choose she won't need a car which is always a good thing! - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:12

How wonderful you have paid off all of your debts as well as your car! That is the first step to financial freedom. The next step is to start a 10 year savings plan and save enough money to purchase an affordable house for cash and buy it outright. Even with the VA backing you are far more prudent to always live within your means and that means living debt free. The economy wouldn't be in such a state if more people would have actually purchased homes and cars they could afford and have paid cash for them rather than finance. Don't be swayed by mortgage brokers or real estate brokers both of whom only make money by convincing people to make poor financial decisions. Stick to a savings plan and in no time at all you will have enough to buy a wonderful and affordable home in Smithfield! - Wed Jul 16 2008, 10:08