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Durham, NC

Homes

The real estate market in Durham is much like the rest of life in this city: full of variety. There are new homes and historical homes, apartments, and twin homes. You can live in the heart of the action downtown or move a bit further out into the suburbs. Choose from homes lining public and private country clubs and golf courses to homes in planned communities. Graceful Southern mansions, contemporary deck houses and everything in between are awaiting the potential home buyer in Durham.

For younger families, there are many starter homes available at affordable prices. If maintaining a home and yard are not your style, take a look at one of the great condos. Those with a flare for remodeling will be happy to know there are also fixer-uppers that have been a part of Durham history for ­generations, waiting to look as good as new with a bit of elbow grease. Whatever your taste and budget, there are places in Durham for you to call home.

Finding the perfect home for your needs is easy in Durham. There are several real estate agents ready to help you find your dream home, whether it is a custom-built estate, a smaller starter home or a low-maintenance condo. Local real estate agents know the Durham area well and will be able to discuss your needs and then show you areas in Durham that will best meet those needs.

Living in Durham is also affordable. Property taxes are low for residents in Durham and those in the county. The Durham City/County Tax Office, located at 200 East Main Street, First Floor, can supply newcomers to the area with up-to-date tax rates for every area of the city and county. The office can be reached at 919-560-0300. Property is reassessed every eight years for valuation according to North Carolina law; Durham is scheduled to be reassessed in 2009.

Neighborhoods

Northern Durham: In northern Durham, homes are within easy driving distance of Duke University and downtown. This area is less crowded than the central and southern areas of Durham and is ideal for those wanting to be close to the action but not necessarily in the middle of it all. One of the most relaxing communities in northern Durham is Treyburn. Set among beautiful forests, lakes and streams, Treyburn features a Tom Fazio-designed, par 72 golf course. It is also just a short drive to Treyburn Corporate Park, home to companies like AW North Carolina and BD Biosciences.

Central Durham: For those wanting to be within walking distance of Duke and NCCU, central Durham is a great option. Located in the heart of downtown, central Durham’s housing options are varied. There are renovated lofts and historic homes on tree-lined streets, as well as affordable rentals. The area is home to a shopping center and mall as well as the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and is perfect for those looking to live where the action is.

Southern Durham: Southern Durham is expanding ­rapidly. There are single-family homes, townhomes, condos and apartments. The area has many new neighborhoods as well as established homes, all coming together to form a cohesive community. Home buyers are able to have their dream home built by one of the many qualified contractors in the area. Newcomers to these neighborhoods gain a quick sense of community, since most residents are also new to the area.

Area Builders

If you are looking for a reputable builder to build your dream home in Durham, there are many available. Builders in the area have an excellent reputation for building affordable and elegant homes to suit each homeowner’s individual tastes and preferences while meeting their deadlines. Several new neighborhoods are being built, with lots selling quickly.

Senior Living
Seniors in Durham have many choices in senior living. Whether one is looking for a full-functioning nursing home or just a place that has a bit of extra help when needed, there are several communities to choose from.
The Croasdaile Village is one of the newest communities of The United Methodist Retirement Homes and is home to 550 retirees. The campus has apartments, duplexes and cottages promoting independent living for seniors as well as residential assisted living, health care and special care (dementia).

The Forest at Duke is another choice for seniors looking to retire in beautiful Durham. There are 80 cottages and 160 apartments as well as 58 health care rooms, including assisted living and nursing care. A community center is home to an elegant dining room, a casual café, an extensive library, a well equipped exercise room, a computer room, a gift shop and much more. Residents don’t have the worry of general maintenance and lawn care but do have the enjoyment of gardening, beautiful walking trails and the overall favorable climate of Durham, all while staying close to the state-of-the-art medical centers.

Temporary Housing

Duke Tower is a great short-term housing option in Durham, whether you are stopping in for business, are on vacation or are relocating. Each of the 114 suites includes a living room, bedroom, kitchen and bath. Pets are permitted at Duke Tower with notification. With a fully equipped kitchen and convenient laundry room, Duke Tower provides all the comforts of home. Located near downtown, Duke Tower provides guests with beautiful surroundings, including an outdoor pool, at an affordable price. While there is no minimum stay required, room rates vary depending on the length of the visit and range between $75 per night for stays of less than seven days to $60 per night for stays of 14 nights or longer. Call 919-687-4444 to book your stay today.

For more information on real estate options in the greater Durham area, call the Durham Association of Realtors at 919-383-2117 or the Home Builders Association of Durham and Orange Counties at 919-493-8899.