Dilworth, Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb, is located just outside of Uptown and is home to the largest hospital in the area, Carolinas
Medical Center. There are lines of mature oak trees and sidewalks that give the neighborhood a friendly, homey feel but there are plenty of conveniences too. Located along the corridor of East Blvd. are many shops, restaurants and offices.

Living options in Dilworth are plentiful. Most prominent in this area are the adorable bungalow homes with front porches, some of the most beautiful Charlotte residential real estate you will find. In addition, there are numerous buildings leasing condos of varying sizes and townhome rental properties as well.

The best way to find a great rental property in this area is to work with a real estate agent in Dilworth or a property manager in Dilworth. From older homes with tons of character to the Atherton Lofts with incredible high ceilings, there is a perfect rental property for everyone.

Want to know what there is to do and see in Dilworth, and why it’s a great place to live? We could go on and on but here are our top five reasons to live in Dilworth:

Paper Skyscraper (330 East Blvd.)

Voted Charlotte’s “Best Gift Store” by the Charlotte Observer , this store has a little bit of everything, including candles and bath products, toys and games, home décor, cards and stationery and an extensive collection of books. The staff is friendly and always willing to make suggestions or help you find that perfect gift and they’ll even ship your gift for your friends and family that are out of town. Visit http://www.paperskyscraper.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Paper-Skyscraper/62063430238?fref=ts.

Toast of Dilworth (2400 Park Rd.)

This is the kind of restaurant that will keep you coming back time and again. The food is fresh and unique and unlike a lot of places these days, that makes it easy to eat healthy. For breakfast, try the Sunrise Burrito with egg whites, brie and avocado. Or if you’re feeling more decadent, try the banana and peanut butter stuffed French toast. They’re open for lunch and dinner too or you can just stop in for a martini or glass of wine. You won’t soon forget the service either because all the waiters work every table and their service is super-fast. Check them out at http://toastcafeonline.com/dilworth or https://www.facebook.com/ToastCafeDilworth.

Wine & Design (1419 East Blvd., Suite J)

If you’re looking for something unique and fun for your next date or girls’ night out, you definitely want to try Wine & Design. Check out the various classes on their website, sign up and then bring your own favorite beverage with you the night of the class. They provide the apron, paint, easel, brushes, canvas and even a corkscrew and cups for your wine. Even if you’ve never done something artistic in your life, you’ll go home with a masterpiece thanks to their awesome instructors. Visit http://www.wineanddesignus.com or https://www.facebook.com/winedesignclt.

Dilworth Billiards (300 E. Tremont Ave.)

Everything at Dilworth Billiard’s is old, but in a good way. The atmosphere gives you that “good ol’ local pub” feeling with the wood floors, antique pool tables and walls of antique memorabilia. They don’t serve food but there is a bar and you are allowed to bring in your own food. The best part though is the beautiful outdoor patio/garden area, complete with fountains and a koi pond. It is a membership club so you will have to fork up $20 to join but it is well worth it. Visit http://www.dilworthbilliards.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/DilworthBilliards.

Dowd YMCA (400 E. Morehead St.)

You may have been to a YMCA before but this one has got everything. Tons of workout equipment, several racquetball courts, two indoor pools, three gyms, group exercise classes and men’s and women’s locker rooms that have saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis and even separate workout areas. But that’s not all, there’s also a dry cleaner, a barber, a pro shop and a restaurant on-site. The staff is very friendly and are always willing to help or even offer an impromptu tour and there’s free Wi-Fi and towel service too. Of course, being a Christian organization, there is a chapel on-site, but they also have baskets of inspirational bible verses by the doors, a nice touch. Check them out at http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/branches/dowd or https://www.facebook.com/DowdYMCA.

Arguably one of Charlotte’s most sought-after neighborhoods, Dilworth offers convenience, suburban amenities, and neighborhood storefronts. If you’re interesting in living in Charlotte’s Dilworth neighborhood, we don’t blame you. We know the ins and outs of the neighborhood, and we’re on-hand and ready to help you find the best places to live. If you’re looking to rent, buy, or sell, we’re here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today!

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Jennifer Baxter is a freelance writer who lives in the Lake Norman area. Have a story idea or project you need help with? Contact her at http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-baxter/22/74a/520

The downtown area of Charlotte known as “Center City” or “Uptown,” is divided into four wards by the intersection of Trade St. and Tryon St. Fourth Ward is the area that lies to the North of this intersection. This historic neighborhood is home to Discovery Place, as well as several historic churches, including St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church.

Currently, homes in the Fourth Ward include high rise buildings leasing condos, and townhome rental properties that start at about $250k. There are also many beautiful and ornate Victorian residential real estate properties. If you don’t already have a realtor or a property manager in the Fourth Ward, contact us today to find your rental property in the Fourth Ward!

So why should you want to live in the Fourth Ward? Here are the top five reasons:

Discovery Place (301 N. Tryon St.)

Whether you’re a child or just a child at heart, you will love this interactive, hands-on museum. With exhibits on everything from biology to architecture and everything in between, there’s something for everyone. Project Build is a particularly cool exhibit where you can build your own buildings and of course, the aquarium and rainforest are always fun. Kids can literally get their hands dirty too in the “please touch” exhibits that allow them to touch certain sea creatures. There’s also an IMAX theatre on-site that shows beautiful nature movies, and on occasion, a mainstream new release. Tickets are pretty affordable too, with adults being $12 and children $10. IMAX does add a small extra cost but you won’t want to miss it. Visit www.discoveryplace.org or https://www.facebook.com/DiscoveryPlace.

Roxbury Nightclub (116 W. 5th St.)

If you want to party like it’s 1999, this is the place to be. For those who are familiar with Charlotte, the Roxbury is owned by the former owners of the Breakfast Club (a 1980’s-themed nightclub that is now closed). The era of choice may have changed (it’s now 80’s and 90’s), but it is every bit as entertaining. It’s a wonderful blast from the past, not just with the music, but also with the old TV shows and commercials that play on the TV’s in the club. There’s also a room filled with old arcade games and an outdoor patio area. Even though there are two floors though, it is still a little small and can get packed quickly, so be sure to get there early and avoid the line. Visit http://www.roxburynightclub.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/Roxburync.

Miss Brow (A Spa Studio) (127 N. Tryon St.)

No guys, this one isn’t just for us girls. Anyone with unruly eyebrows will want to see the ladies at Miss Brow. They work quickly and their work is crazy accurate, resulting in eyebrows that look literally perfect. Although they offer waxing and threading, chances are once you try threading, you’ll be hooked. Pooja, the owner, is very friendly and excellent at what she does. The studio is only open during the week though, so make an appointment on your lunch break or pop in after work since they’re open until 6pm. Visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Brow-A-Spa-Studio/172610152811141?fref=ts.

Alexander Michael’s Restaurant & Tavern(401 W. 9th St.)

This pub/restaurant is truly a hidden gem. Located in a residential area, it looks like a quaint house on the outside and is just as cozy on the inside. Although it’s a little small, the dim lighting and wood interior give it a homey feel. The menu includes sandwiches, entrees and salads but make sure you try the fried pickles, they’re delicious! The staff is friendly and although they are often crowded, they don’t take long to bring you your food. Try stopping in after a carriage ride or walking tour of the Fourth Ward for a perfect Saturday! Visit http://almikestavern.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/AlMikesTavern.

McColl Center for the Visual Art (721 N. Tryon St.)

If you didn’t take a second look, you would think this was a church. The center, which is located in a neo-gothic church building, has a ton of gallery space featuring art from all types of media. Artists can also complete residencies here with the nine studios available on-site, which makes for a cool bonus during your visit if you can catch one of them in person. The volunteers that work here are always very pleasant and well-educated about the exhibits and admission is free so it’s great for those on a budget! Visit http://www.mccollcenter.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/McCollCenterNC.

It’s no surprise with gems like those that Charlotte’s Fourth Ward is sought after for buyers and renters alike. Fourth Ward is one of the premiere neighborhoods in Charlotte, and it’s where we work and play every day. If you’re interested in learning more about renting, buying or even selling in Fourth Ward, please let us know!

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Jennifer Baxter is a freelance writer who lives in the Lake Norman area. Have a story idea or project you need help with?  Contact her at http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-baxter/22/74a/520

The downtown area of Charlotte known as “Center City” or “Uptown” is divided into four wards by the intersection of Trade St. and Tryon St. Second Ward is the area that lies to the South of this intersection. This neighborhood is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Charlotte Convention Center and the government district, as well as St. Peter’s Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic church in Charlotte, and Grace A.M.E. Zion Church, one of Charlotte’s oldest African American congregations.

Although a great deal of the Second Ward’s residential buildings were removed during an urban renewal program in the 1960’s, there are currently several hi-rise buildings leasing condos and new residential real estate developments are planned for the future. Because there are not a lot of rental properties currently in this area, if you want to move to the Second Ward, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled and work with a property manager in Charlotte.

So what are the Top 5 Reasons the Second Ward is an awesome place to live? We thought you’d never ask.

The Green (400 S. Tryon St.)

This beautiful park is a little piece of nature right in the middle of uptown Charlotte. Inspired by its literary theme, there are large bronze structures of books and poems etched onto unique bronze plaques that resemble pieces of paper casually lying about. There’s plenty of lush grass to picnic on, or benches if you’re in your best business wear. And the kids will love the fountains that look like fish with water spewing from their mouths. In the summer, the park hosts the Charlotte Shakespeare Festival, as well as other free movies and plays throughout the year. Follow on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Green/114728078596020.

NASCAR Hall of Fame (400 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.)

It’s four levels of fun and everything a diehard race fan could ever dream of. Ever wanted to be part of a pit crew? Test your skills in the Pit Challenge exhibit. More interested in being behind the wheel? Test your speed on a qualifying lap or drive in a state-of-the-art racing simulator for just a $5 additional fee. You can also “inspect” a car, tour a transporter and of course, check out an array of historical displays and videos. With a huge gift shop and a café to boot, you can easily spend all day here and for $19.95, it’s well worth the money. Visit http://www.nascarhall.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/nascarhall.

Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte (650 East Stonewall St.)

This ain’t your mama’s theater and that’s exactly how they want it at the Actor’s Theatre. Known for putting on inventive productions that sometimes push boundaries, they are sure to make you laugh, cry and most importantly, thoroughly enjoy yourself. Supporting the community is important to this group too, so they employ local actors and crew members, and even feature local artists on the walls of their lobby. It’s right off the highway and parking is free, so it’s the perfect affordable night out! Visit http://actorstheatrecharlotte.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/ActorsTheatre.

Aquavina (435 S. Tryon St.)

If you like seafood but are tired of having it prepared the same old ways, you’ll love Aquavina. They have all the standards… salmon, shrimp, scallops, and some beef and chicken selections for the non-seafood fans. But the real treasure here is in the details. To start with, the house salad isn’t one of those disappointing piles of iceburg lettuce with a few shreds of carrot and a cherry tomato. There are nuts and cranberries and a house dressing that’s both spicy and sweet. And how do you make a couple of old favorites taste divine? Step them up a notch like the lobster mac n’ cheese and shrimp and grits. For dessert, you have to try the pumpkin cheesecake or the banana crème brulee. Get extra napkins though, you may drool a lot. Visit http://aquavina.com/.

Childress Klein YMCA (301 S. College St.)

If you’ve ever been to a branch of the YMCA, then you already know what to expect and the Childress Klein branch will not disappoint. There’s a fitness center packed with all the latest nautilus and cardio equipment, an extensive schedule of fitness classes, an indoor pool, two basketball courts and an indoor track. In addition to these YMCA staples, this branch has a pro shop and a fitness bar that’s open for breakfast, lunch and snacks. There are also masseuses on-site and free Wi-Fi. If you want to take your workout to the next level, check out the personal training services and nutrition counseling. And because rates are now based on income, it’s affordable for everyone. Visit http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/childressklein or https://www.facebook.com/centercityymcas.

With a quality of life like this, it’s no small wonder why it’s hard to find great spots to live in Charlotte’s Second Ward. Luckily, knowing the local real estate here is literally our business. If you’re interested in renting in Second Ward, or even buying or selling a home here, we’ve got you covered. Please let us know how we can help by contacting us today!

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Jennifer Baxter is a freelance writer who lives in the Lake Norman area. Have a story idea or project you need help with?  Contact her at http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-baxter/22/74a/520

The downtown area of Charlotte known as “Center City” or “Uptown,” is divided into four wards by the intersection of Trade St. and  Tryon St. First Ward is the area that lies to the East of this intersection. This neighborhood is home to the uptown campus of UNC Charlotte as well as The Epicentre, a popular hotspot loaded with great restaurants, bars, a movie theater and a bowling alley.

First Ward contains a variety of real estate including remodeled bungalows and newly constructed single family homes, as well as rental property options including leasing condos and townhomes. There are also new Charlotte residential real estate communities planned in the First Ward, including an extensive urban village that will consist of at least eight blocks of apartments, offices, restaurants and stores once completed.

If that’s not enough reasons to start looking up real estate agents in First Ward, here are our five best reasons to live in Charlotte’s First Ward:

Mortimer’s Café & Pub (210 E. Trade St, Suite C 148)

If you’re looking for a great neighborhood bar with awesome food, this is where you want to be. The menu will make your mouth water just reading it and includes a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, paninis, pitas and wraps. If you’re in the mood for something light, try Blaine’s Asian Chicken Wrap with cucumbers, mandarin oranges and wontons. Or if you want to go all out, order the Disco Fries, covered with brown gravy and melted provolone. There’s live music on Tuesday and Friday nights and the staff is fun and friendly. Their motto says they’re working to preserve old fashioned service, and that’s exactly what they do. Visit http://www.mortimerspub.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/MortimersPub.

Blumenthal Performing Arts Center (130 N. Tryon St.)

The center for all things cultural, the Blumenthal has live music, comedians, dance and Broadway shows. From Wicked to Blue Man Group and everything in between, you can catch all the hottest events right where you live. There are several theaters including the largest, the Belk Theater, which holds 2,100 people and offers an excellent view from every seat in the unique horseshoe layout. Although there is a snack bar in the lobby, check out the nearby restaurants that offer specials or discounts just by showing your event tickets. Visit http://www.blumenthalarts.org or https://www.facebook.com/NCBPAC/.

Cosmos Café (300 N. College St.)

They have a menu of over 30 different martinis. Need we say more? Well besides the awesome martinis (like the Dreamsicle or the Sweeteani), the food menu is equally pleasing, ranging from tapas to full entrees. Particularly yummy choices are the new signature mac n’ cheese (you can add bacon or lobster) and the flank steak salad that is topped with French fries. There are two floors of spacious seating and a dance floor upstairs, so be sure to stop in on Thursday or Saturday night for some hot salsa dancing! Visit http://www.cosmoscafe.com or https://www.facebook.com/CosmosCafeCLT.

blis Gift Boutique (100 N. Tryon St.)

Not only do the ladies (the shop is owned by a mother and daughter) at blis offer a great selection of unique gifts, but they will make your experience individualized and pleasant. Beneath shimmering crystal chandeliers, is an array of fabulous gift items ranging from soaps and lotions to food items to stationary. They also offer monogramming for personalized gifts and will gift wrap any item for free. For those unexpected moments when you need a quick gift in a pinch, try their “Desktop Concierge” service and get your order filled ASAP! Visit https://www.blisuptown.com or https://www.facebook.com/blisgiftboutique.

Modern Salon & Spa (214 N. Tryon St.)

The ultimate pampering experience conveniently located close to home and work. Modern Salon & Spa is conveniently located in the lobby of the Hearst Tower and has that unmistakable, instantly-relaxing smell of an Aveda salon. Services include haircuts & color, mani/pedi’s, make-up, massages and facials, each taken to a higher level of relaxation. Seriously, the head massage will make you want to fall asleep at the shampoo bowl. And with the added amenities of a café (they even serve beer & wine) and free internet, it is the perfect spot for your next lunch break. Visit http://www.modernsalonandspa.com or https://www.facebook.com/modernsalonandspahearsttower.

As you can imagine, First Ward is a popular hotspot so good rentals are tough to find (particularly higher-end condos) and rents can escalate quickly without proper representation. If you’d like to live in First Ward or are thinking of buy/selling in the area, please contact us today!

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Jennifer Baxter is a freelance writer who lives in the Lake Norman area. Have a story idea or project you need help with?  Contact her at http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-baxter/22/74a/520

“NoDa” is Charlotte’s historic arts district and one of the city’s most popular places to live. It is named after North Davidson, the street around which the neighborhood is centered. The community that was once a bustling textile mill village was revamped in the 1990’s into a community for the arts. In addition to a unique mix of original mill buildings and new construction, the area is now home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, shops, music venues and art galleries. Although there are a hundred different reasons to live in this exciting community, here are a few of the top ones:

Amelie’s French Bakery (2424 N. Davidson St.)

This bakery is to die for, plain and simple. With a menu that includes French pastries, homemade breads, savory soups and handcrafted coffee beverages, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The salted caramel brownie is a must have (they make their own caramel in-house) and for those of you non-coffee drinkers, try the lavender lemonade. It’s as wonderfully weird as it sounds. The ambiance is equally enchanting, think Starbucks crossed with your Grandma’s living room. The blue walls are covered in French paintings and seating ranges from bistro sets to comfy couches. There are several areas to dine in, but it is always crowded, so try to get there early. And for all you night owls, it’s open 24 hours a day. Visit http://www.ameliesfrenchbakery.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/AmeliesFrenchBakery.

The Dog Bar (3307 N. Davidson St.)

Want to have a beer and watch the game but don’t want to leave your four-legged friend at home all alone? Now you don’t have to. The Dog Bar provides a fun and safe off-leash environment for your dog to run and play with his new friends, either in the climate-controlled indoor play area or outdoors on the Astroturf patio. The patio has a misting system in the summer and is enclosed and heated in the winter, so your dog will be comfy year-round. Although there’s no food served on-site, there’s plenty of take-out menus and lots of drink specials (try the spiced moonshine and the Stoli hot bloody mary’s). They’ll even throw your pooch (or you) a birthday party with all the trimmings. Memberships are only $10/year and worth every penny. Visit http://www.dogbarcharlotte.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/DogBarCharlotte.

Ruby’s Gift (3204 N. Davidson St.)

Ruby’s Gift is the perfect place to find a unique gift for your loved one. In fact, that’s part of the story behind the shop’s name. Owner, Patricia Snow, wanted to fill her shop with diverse, one-of-a-kind items from local artists. But beyond that, she wanted to celebrate diversity, a lesson she says that was taught to her by her Aunt Ruby. This shop is overflowing with trinkets from jewelry to pottery, clothing to candles and everything in between. Prices are surprisingly affordable and kids even have their own area to play and draw in while you shop! Visit http://www.rubysgift.com or https://www.facebook.com/RubysGift.

Tasty-Yo (3116 N. Davidson St.)

This frozen yogurt shop is not only good for you, it’s good for the environment. The all natural yogurt is offered in two flavors every day; one that changes and the standard “tart” flavor (hard to describe, but it’s GOOD). Toppings are plentiful and include condensed milk, homemade granola and fresh fruit from the local farmer’s market, chopped into just the right size pieces for your sundae. The staff is super friendly and the shop, super cozy with a comfy couch, frees Wi-Fi and local art on the walls. Plus all the paper products are recycled and the spoons and cups are biodegradable, so there’s no need to feel guilty. Visit http://www.tasty-yo.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/TastyYoCLT.

Cabo Fish Taco (3201 N. Davidson St.)

If you love Mexican food, you’ll love Cabo Fish Taco. Located in the historic Hand Pharmacy building, they serve up a unique twist of traditional Mexican dishes mixed with fare typical of Baja style restaurants in Southern California. The result? Delicious creations like the Cabo Signature Tacos, available with 7 different fillings, including delectable beer-battered fish and shrimp. There’s a plentiful selection of cocktails, including budget-friendly $4 tequila shots and $5 margaritas. But it’s a popular spot and there’s often a line, so be prepared to wait. Visit http://www.cabofishtaco.com or https://www.facebook.com/CaboFishTacoNoda.

Charlotte residents love living in NoDa, but because of the vibrant nightlife, gallery crawls and myriad of things to do, rental properties and “For Sale” real estate goes fast.  If you’re considering living in NoDa, contact us today to see what may be available to buy or rent in this awesomely artistic area of Charlotte.
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Jennifer Baxter is a freelance writer who lives in the Lake Norman area. Have a story idea or project you need help with?  Contact her at http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-baxter/22/74a/520