Ra With M A Local’s Guide To
LOCAL LOVES DAMN GOOD EATS LIFESTYLE
Melanie Jones
Melanie Jones grew up constantly moving, which made answering the question "Where are you from?" a lengthy endeavor. This nomadic lifestyle taught her how to make friends quickly, navigate new environments, and efficiently unpack her belongings Over her life, she has lived in three countries and seven states, but Raleigh has been home for the past twenty years
MELANIE JONES
melaniejonesliving.com
919-559-2650
melanie jones@hodgekittrellsir com
As a Real Estate Agent for over ten years, Melanie uses her extensive market knowledge to guide clients through the emotional and financial aspects of home buying and selling. She excels at negotiating contracts and showcasing properties, always working diligently on behalf of her clients. With a background in advertising, her ability to communicate effectively is one of her greatest strengths She has built a network of expert service providers to facilitate even the most complex deals
Melanie and her husband, Greg, a rector at St Michael's Episcopal Church, enjoy the vibrant community and ACC sports A former lacrosse player at Brown University, she embodies leadership and teamwork. Beyond her professional life, she volunteers with local charities and is involved with Saint Mary's School and the Brown Alumni Group. An avid tennis player, Melanie has recently taken up Peloton cycling and lives in Five Points with her husband, their three daughters, and a rescue dog
Rale Living in
LivinginRaleigh,NorthCarolina,combines vibrantcitylifewithserenenature.This region,knowasTheResearchTriangle includesRaleigh,Durham,andChapelHill, offersexceptionalqualityoflife,cultural diversity,andinnovation.Residentsbenefit fromtopeducationalinstitutions,astrongjob market,andnumerousoutdooractivities.The area'srichhistoryandmodernamenities createawelcomingcommunity.Withamild climateandvariouslocalfestivals,restaurants, andentertainment,theTriangleprovidesa uniquelifestyleexperience.
REASONS PEOPLE MOVE TO RALEIGH
Strong job market in tech, healthcare, and education.
Quality of life with urban-suburban blend and cultural attractions.
Culturally diverse with vibrant food, music, and arts.
Affordable living balances career and housing costs.
Mild climate supports year-round outdoor activities.
WEEKEND ITINERARIES
FOR THE ADVENTURER FOR THE SHOPPER
Breakfast at Raleigh Raw
Hike in Umstead Park
Lunch at True Foods
Pullen Park Paddle Boats
Dinner at Ajja Eats
Concert at Red Hat Ampitheater
FOR THE
Morning workout at Pure Barre
Coffee at Idle Hour
Father & Son Thrift Shop
Dress Consignment shop
Lunch at Village Green
Vermillion/Monkees/Uniquities
Cocktails at RH Rooftop
LEISURE LOVER FOR THE SPORTS FAN
Brunch at Press
Farmers Market
NCM Art Museum
Browse Quail Ridge Books
Tea at Height House
Dinner at Bida Manda
Breakfast at Third Place
Video games at Boxcar
Hop Shots Putt Putt In Downtown
Lunch at Players Retreat
Carolina Hurricanes Game
Dinner at Bella Monica
GOOD EATS
THEBESTMEXICAN
Gonzas
Gringo a Gogo
Cantina 18
Chido Taco
Gym Tacos
Capital Grille FANCYASTEAK?
Beef Master
Angus Barn
Sulivans
Perry’s
SUSHI&JAPANESE
City Market Sushi
O-Ku
Sushi Mon
Kai Sushi & Sake Bar
Sono
LOCALSTARS
Ajja
Pooles Diner
Crawford & Son
Bida Munda
Second Empire
BARBEQUE
Longleaf
Sam Jones
The Pit
Clyde Coop
BBQ Lab
Prime BBQ
SEAFOOD
St. Roch Postino
Saltwater Seafood & Fry Shack
Brodeto
42nd Street Oyster Bar
Eoups Seafood Market
LUNCH
Tazza
Taste
Wilsons
Hayes Barton Cafe
Nofo
Village Deli
DRINKS
Neuse River
Trophy
Crafty
Corpse River Cocktail Bar
Missy Larie’s
Barcelona Wine Bar
SMALL BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT
In Raleigh
LaMaison&TrellisFloral
High-endhomefurnishingscuratedbyowner MarthaSchneider.TrellisFloralisaParisian stylefloralboutique.Full-servicedesign atelier.
DesignedForJoy
Leatherbags,jewelry,andhomedecormade byvulnerablewomeninourcommunity. Providesatransitionalworkexperiencefor womenemergingfromvulnerablesituations.
BaySix
Brandingpowerhouseofferinga comprehensiverangeofservicesincluding screenprinting,direct-to-film,laserengraving, artandgraphics.
ActiveChiropractic
Individual,compassionatecarefocusedon optimalhealthandqualifyoflife.chiropractic care,acupuncture,massage,reiki,cupping,dry needling,stretchesandexercises
Buying A Home In Raleigh
ConnectWithMe
Ifwehaven'tscheduledameetingyet,please getintouchnow We'lldefineyourgoalsand aspirationstogether.Evaluatingyourneeds anddesiresisthecrucialfirststepinthehome buyingjourney.
WriteTheOffer
Onceyouidentifyapropertyyouadore,Iwill assistyouincraftingacompellingoffer We willtakeintoaccountmarketconditions, recentcomparablesales,andtheproperty's overallcondition.Iwillnegotiateonyour behalftoensureyoureceivethebestpossible terms
DetermineYourBudget& GetPre-Approved
Obtainingpre-approvalforamortgageis essentialbeforestartingyourhomesearch. Thisprocessprovidesyouwithabetter understandingofyourborrowingpotential andguidesyouinyourquest.Alendercan assistyouinfiguringouthowmuchyoucan comfortablyspendonahome.Iwouldbe delightedtosharemylistoftrustedlocal lenderswithyou
StartYourHomeSearch
WewillestablishanMLSsearchtoensureyou receiveinstantnotificationsaboutanynew propertiesonthemarket.Iwilldiligentlyseek outhomesbeforetheyofficiallyhitthe market.Youwillvisitopenhouses,and togetherwewillexplorevariousproperties
UnderContract
Oncewefinalizethecontract,it'sessentialto carryoutinspectionsandcompletealldue diligence.Iwillmanagetheinspectionprocess, andtogetherwewillgoovertheinspection report.Iwillassistyouinanyrequired negotiationswiththeseller.We'lladdressany contingenciesoutlinedinyourcontractand makesurethatfinancingandclosing preparationsarehandledefficiently.
Priortoclosing,wewillperformafinal walkthroughtoconfirmthattheproperty meetstheagreed-uponcondition.Duringthe closing,youwillsigntherequireddocuments, settletheclosingcosts,andofficiallyassume ownershipoftheproperty Settlement
THE VALUE OF A LOCAL BUYER’S AGENT
ExclusiveRepresentationforYourInterests
Workingwithabuyer'sagentoffersadistinctadvantagecomparedtogoingthroughalistingagent,who primarilyrepresentstheseller'sinterests Abuyer'sagentisdedicatedexclusivelytoyou,prioritizingyour needsandpreferences.Theyprovideimpartialadviceandsupport,guidingyouthroughouttheentirebuying journey.
AccesstoOff-MarketListings
Yourbuyer'sagenthastheabilitytoconnectwithanetworkthatextendsbeyondtraditionallistings, incorporatingoff-marketor"pocket"listings.Thisaccesscanbevitalinsecuringyouridealhomeinhighly competitivemarkets
In-DepthMarketInsights
Buyer'sagentsprovideexpertknowledgeofthelocalrealestatelandscape,encompassingeverythingfrom pricingtrendstoneighborhoodcharacteristics.Thisexpertiseisessentialformakinginformeddecisionsand discoveringhiddentreasures.
SkilledNegotiationonYourBehalf
Havinganexperiencednegotiatoronyourteamcansaveyouasignificantamountofmoney.Buyer’sagents negotiatenotonlyonpricebutalsoonthetermsandconditionsthatalignwithyourbestinterests
CoordinationoftheBuyingProcess
Youragenttakescareofallthelogistics,fromorganizingviewingstocoordinatinginspectionsandmanaging theclosingprocedures.Thiscarefulcoordinationiscrucialforensuringaseamlesstransitionfromhouse huntingtohomeownership.
InsiderAdviceonPropertyPotentialandPitfalls
Abuyer'sagentdelvesdeeperthanjustthesurface,providinginsightsonthepotentialbenefitsand drawbacksofproperties Theyassistyouinunderstandingthecompletescenario,takingintoaccountfactors suchasfutureresalevalueandrequiredrepairs.
WelcomeTo
Raleigh
AN UP-AND-COMING HUB FOR HIGH-TECH PROFESSIONALS
There's so much to love about Raleigh. With over 200 days of sun during the year, over a dozen growing neighborhoods, and quintessential Southern charm, Raleigh embraces visitors and new residents. Raleigh's real estate landscape is also home to some of the most beautiful properties in North Carolina. A favorite amongst those looking for Raleigh homes for sale include stately Georgian Colonials that dot the area with large manors that can feature gated grounds. You can search the Raleigh real estate market and find a bounty of newer, luxurious farmhouse-style homes accompanied by beautiful, expansive yards.
WHAT TO LOVE
Parks and greenways suitable for an active lifestyle
Warm, welcoming Southern hospitality
Sophisticated entertainment, including sports, museums, and live shows
Ranked #1 Best Places to Live; US News & World Report 2022-2023
Extraordinary opportunities for professional growth
Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which operates 48 non-stop flights and counting
Ranked among Top 3 Hottest Job Markets in America; Wall Street Journal 2022
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Raleigh has much to offer people from all walks of life. The city's historical charm coexists with a modern, vibrant energy that appeals to professionals and young families. The Raleigh area also offers many economic opportunities and paths for career advancement features that often transcend demographics. Home to North Carolina State University, Raleigh forms a third of the vaunted Research Triangle; the city is a magnet for the engineering, technology, agriculture, and medical industries.
THINGS TO DO
Music lovers will thrive in the Raleigh area. The region hosts live music events like the Bluegrass Festival and the Hopscotch Music Festival, both held annually in downtown Raleigh. Also downtown, the Red Hat Amphitheater hosts a wide variety of smaller musical events. Most of the larger concerts are held at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park, a 77-acre complex with an outdoor amphitheater in east Raleigh.
Art lovers will enjoy viewing Art in Bloom, a constellation of floral creations hosted by the North Carolina Museum of Art each spring.
The PNC Arena hosts the Carolina Hurricanes (the 2006 Stanley Cup champions), shows, leading standup comedy acts, and concerts by music luminaries, especially country stars.
Raleigh is home to many beautiful parks, including William B. Umstead State Park and Dorothea Dix Park, known for its beautiful sunflower field, where viewers flock from all over when it is in full bloom every July.
Durham
LOOKING TO AN INNOVATIVE, TECH-FORWARD FUTURE WHILE EMBRACING ITS RICH HISTORY
Durham, NC is emerging as a major tech hub in the Southeast, attracting investments from companies like Apple, IBM, Meta, and Google. The city, home to Duke University and other top schools, offers educational and professional growth. Its real estate features a mix of Southern charm with ornate architecture and lush parks. Homes range from older bungalows to modern farmhouses, and investors can find manors, contemporary houses, and land for new construction.
WHAT TO LOVE
Premier educational and professional opportunities
Fast-growing research and tech hub
Palpable sense of history
College athletics
Ranked #1 Best Places to Live; US News & World Report 2022-2023
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Durham has evolved beyond being known as the tobacco capital of America, now embodying a mix of a startup incubator, college town, local commerce hub, and historical site. The growth is largely due to its universities, which host various cultural and athletic events. The presence of Duke, North Carolina Central, and Shaw universities contributes to a vibrant arts and dining scene. Family-friendly neighborhoods like Forest Hills attract residents, while smaller tech companies have emerged, influenced by larger tech firms, enhancing the city's international appeal.
THINGS TO DO
For those who love to spend time outdoors, there's Eno River State Park. The park has almost 4,000 acres of woodlands where visitors can hike, camp, fish, canoe, or go for a quiet walk to commune with nature. In addition to the many activities on the Duke campus, there's the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, home to 55 acres of public gardens. The gardens also have five miles of public walking paths, a koi pond, and an amphitheater.
In addition to college basketball games at Duke University always a hot ticket, and the many other college-leve Triple-A minor league baseball games o movie Bull Durham). And the Durham beautiful upscale theater that hosts var musical artists and Broadway shows.
ChapelHill
A HISTORIC, WALKABLE CITY WITH AN UPBEAT ATMOSPHERE
The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill attracts residents and visitors, known for its D-1 sports programs. Beyond sports, it is a significant medical and research institution within the Research Triangle, alongside Duke University and North Carolina State University. Chapel Hill offers diverse real estate options, featuring historic two-story brick homes, farmhouses, and stately manors, often with large yards in the surrounding area.
WHAT TO LOVE
Home to UNC, a world-class institution and Research Triangle constituent
Jobs and degree programs in medicine and research
Hip and fun campus with frequent athletic events
Ranked #12 Best Place to Live in America; Money Magazine 2022-2023
High-tech careers nearby
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Chapel Hill, NC is a beautiful town with an energetic vibe that appeals to young professionals and a climate that attracts anyone who prefers warmer winter temperatures and historic beauty. The UNC School of Medicine employs nearly 2,000 full-time faculty, and the UNC Health Care system operates eight area hospitals, five of them in Chapel Hill. UNC faculty researchers receive over $500 million in funding annually, and Chapel Hill is home to several high-value tech companies. Coupled with the hum of education and commerce in nearby Raleigh and Durham, Chapel Hill is unquestionably an up-and-coming area.
THINGS TO DO
Since Chapel Hill, NC is a college town, many events have some connection to the university. Of course, there's the Dean Dome, where the epic UNC basketball games are played, and the Carolina Basketball Museum is right next door. Also located on campus is the Old Well, a historic local landmark and the Ackland Art Museum. Another lovely outdoor place to visit is the North Carolina Botanical Gardens. Locals can take a short drive to Carrboro to visit Cat's Cradle, a live music venue known for hosting up-and-coming entertainers and world-renowned talents such as Nirvana, Iggy Pop, John Mayer, and more.
WelcomeTo WakeForest
A PLACE TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL, WHILE STILL BEING CLOSE TO MAJOR CITIES
Wake Forest, North Carolina, is a charming and growing town near Raleigh, known for its friendly community, local art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Notable dining options include Sugar Magnolia Cafe & Emporium for Southern cooking and Shorty's Famous Hot Dogs, a family-owned establishment since 1916. At The Factory, visitors can enjoy Gonzas Tacos and Tequila after kids' sporting events. The new Holding Park features an inclusive playground designed for all abilities, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, enhanced walkways, and safety measures. Its adaptive equipment caters to children with sensory issues, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
n the mood to shop? Stop in at The Cotton Company, where you can make your own gift basket filled with Tar Heel souvenirs. The Wake Forest Farmer's Market held each Saturday morning starting in April and offers local produce, cheese, and other artisan crafts and gifts. Dive further into Wake Forest’s rich history at the Wake Forest Historical Museum and the campus of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, which was once the Wake Forest College campus before the school moved to Winston-Salem in the 1950s.
WelcomeTo
Apex
THE "PEAK OF GOOD LIVING," THIS SMALL TOWN IS CLOSE TO EMERGING TECH HUBS.
Not many cities can boast of winning the title of "Best Place to Live in America," but Money magazine bestowed the town of Apex, NC with that title. This community-oriented town is surrounded by beautiful nature and within commuting distance of Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill. A great deal of residential growth has occurred in Apex in recent years. Many of Apex, NC's homes for sale can be more new, and many spacious two-story homes are available, complete with large, well-maintained yards. Quite a few homes in Apex incorporate farmhouse-style elements, and the design of some houses hearkens back to traditional Southern homes by including a one or two-story veranda. Apex, NC's real estate options can also showcase some stately brick homes that are available as well.
WHAT TO LOVE
New homes and opportunities for construction
Close to high-tech areas and short commute to Raleigh Named "Best Place to Live in America" by Money Magazine #3 Best Suburb to Raise a Family in NC; Niche (January, 2022)
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Apex comprises close-knit, growing communities with residential areas characterized by new and contemporary homes. Its people enjoy access to the amenities of Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill at some remove from these cities’ college town atmospheres. Apex is appealing to many newcomers to the area looking for a close-knit and welcoming community, without the hustle and bustle of the nearby cities.
THINGS TO DO
When residents want to engage in outdoor activities, they turn to one of the many local parks including Hunter Street Park. This 12-acre park offers a children's playground, a soccer field, batting cages, picnic areas, a skate plaza, a dog park, and much more. The Apex Nature Park is another beautiful park that offers walking trails, disc golf, a children's playground, a dog park, and an amphitheater.
The Apex Farmers Market is a great place to spend an afternoon when you want to enjoy some live music while shopping for fresh, locallyproduced food items, fine meats, and seafood.
Several festivals occur throughout the year, including the Apex Musical Festival, the Peak City Pig Fest on Saunders Street in downtown Apex, and the PeakFest held downtown on Salem Street. The annual Rotary Christmas Parade takes place on Salem Street as well.
WelcomeTo
Cary
INTERTWINING MUSIC AND THE ARTS AMID A CHARMING AND VIBRANT DOWNTOWN
Cary is an ideal community for families, known for its excellent schools and abundant parks that provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The town features a vibrant cultural scene with festivals, art galleries, and theaters, catering to a variety of tastes. Dining options range from local Southern cuisine to international fare, while shopping enthusiasts can explore charming boutiques and modern centers. With its friendly atmosphere and convenient location, Cary offers a perfect blend of tranquility and urban amenities.
WHAT TO LOVE
Beautiful parks and greenery everywhere
Breweries, great dining and cultural arts galore
Multiple theaters, golf courses, tennis courts, and libraries
Ranked #1 Cities With The Most Resilient Economies; 2022 SmartAsset Report
Great schools and a plethora of local festivals
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Cary's top-rated schools make it easy to see why the area feels suburban and community-oriented. The homes are lovely, and so are the many parks and 80 miles of greenways. There's still a small-town vibe to Cary, as exemplified by all the various festivals sponsored by the town. Yet, people with advanced education and careers have easy access to top-notch companies to work for nearby Raleigh and Durham.
THINGS TO DO
The Koka Booth Amphitheatre and the Cary Arts Center host top-rated musical and theater performances. The Cary Arts Center also offers programs for people of all ages in woodworking, art, clay, glass, and metals.
When Cary residents want to get outdoors, they head to the Fred G. Bond Metro Park. Set alongside Bond Lake, the park is 310 acres of beautiful green spaces and stunning foliage. Along with relaxing views of the lake, the park offers picnic areas, boating, kayaking, trails for hiking, and more. The Downtown Cary Park opened in November of 2023 and is over 7 acres in downtown Cary. With water features, play structures, dog runs, public art, and event space this newest space is attracting people from all over the Triangle.
The city of Cary is also involved in several events throughout the year. These include the annual Farmers Fall Festival at the Cary Downtown Farmers Market, the Barktoberfest held in nearby Raleigh, and the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival held near Academy Street in downtown Cary.
PLUMBER
MidtownPlumbing Cell:9193736788 midtownplumbingllccom
KiddPlumbing kiddplumbing.com
INTERIORDESIGNER
MarthaSchneider
Cell:919.821.2970
Cell:9193242310 lamaisonraleigh.com
KatherineConnellDesigns Cell:919.219.6331 kcdesign.com
CameronJonesInteriors
LANDSCAPERS
WesEnglebreth
StorybookStone
DERMATOLOGISTS
SouthernDermatology
Dr.MargaretBoyse
BlueRidgeDermatology
Cell:202-617-5976 cameronjonesinteriors.com
Cell:919.538.7661
Cell:984.363.7246 storybookstone.com
Address:4201LakeBooneTrailsuite207
Office:919.782.2152
Dr KendallHash 4225MaconPondRoadsuite300
Office:9197811050
NextSteps Ready
I hope this neighborhood guide was valuable to you as you consider the various neighborhoods in Raleigh. Now that you’re more acquainted with the areas that may suit your family, let’s choose a time to discuss your goals.
Give me call to set up a time.
