Ballantyne. Charlotte, N.C.

Ballantyne. Charlotte, N.C.

Today I was up early and went to meet a lender friend of mine at the Starbucks on Rea Road, near the Piper Glen subdivision.  Just to let you know, it was cold and I had a delicious Pumpkin Spice coffee, which is my favorite. My friend and I were sipping our hot gourmet coffee and talking about how nice Ballantyne is.  Residents can find just about everything they need within a few miles of where they live.

Ballantyne is basically an upscale new and expanding development with the best restaurants, hotels, fitness centers, specialized doctors, corporate offices, banking centers, walking trails, soppings centers, movie theaters, and you name it. Homes in Ballantyne varies from the low 200,000 to over a million dollars.

There are some really hot spots in Ballantyne. StoneCrest on the corner of Rea Road and Ballantyne Commons is an attractive place for the youngsters, where they can meet friends, go to the movies, to the bookstore, and enjoy some of their favorite fast food restaurants. A few miles south of StoneCrest, Blackney offers a variety of places where people can shop, eat, or just go for a walk. Featuring stores includes Old Navy, Brixx Pizza, Harris Teeter, Target, and Marshall’s. But if you prefer live music and enjoy good ice cream, then you need to go to the corner of Providence Road and Ballantyne Commons. There you can find good sushi, Cold Stone ice cream, Lowes Food, among others.

If you have not yet visited Ballantyne, make sure you do. If you are planning to buy a house, Ballantyne offers it all.

For more information about Ballantyne or any other neighborhood in Charlotte, NC, please visit www.MyCasaBela.com

Maria Ferreira - Realtor/Broker Charlotte NC & SC

Nothing Less Than What You Should Expect From a Realtor!

Maria is committed to providing a variety of real estate services to a diverse group of clients. These services include but are not limited to proficiently lead her clients during the process of buying and selling residential real estate properties in North and South Carolina but with a special focus in South Charlotte and Fort Mill. Maria has an extensive experience with first time home buyers, short sales, foreclosures, HUD homes and more. She is part of a team of professionals striving to provide clients with superior services. Although, teamwork is the trade mark of the group that shares, understands, and exceeds expectations when performing in any aspect of the real estate business, as individuals, each one of them have somehow specialized in one or more specific field in order to better address the needs of  clients. Maria is a buyer’s agent, and she works directly with the buyers guiding them through the process of getting qualified, choosing the most effective lenders and programs , understanding the implication, advantages, and responsibilities involved  in buying a home, looking for the right home at the most affordable price, submitting an acceptable offer, negotiating on behalf of the buyers, and most important, giving the buyer the peace of mind and assurance that choosing the right Realtor is the first step  in completing a successful real estate transaction

Maria Ferreira is a native of Brazil and has been living in the USA for the past 19 years. After living in Florida for most of this time, her family decided to relocate to Charlotte and she loves it. Maria has a Florida Atlantic University Bachelor’s degree in Business Health Care Management, but it is in real estate that she has found her passion. She speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese which gives her the capability of providing real estate service to a diversified group of people.  She is very personable and takes every opportunity she has to learn from others. She believes that a great Realtor will make the difference when her clients are purchasing and selling real estate. One of Maria’s goals is to carefully guide her clients throughout the entire process and provide high quality service that will result in a positive experience for every one of the people she works with.

Maria Ferreira

Realtor/Broker NC-SC

maria@mycasabela.com

704-287-7468 Cell

704-248-6127 Fax

CasaBela Realty

http://www.MyCasaBela.com

“It is all about attitude. “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it… We are in charge of our attitudes” (C. Swindol)

How to Buy a HUD Home With Only 100 Down Payment. Charlotte, N.C.

How to Buy a HUD Home With Only 100 Down Payment. Charlotte, N.C.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development,HUD is an organization that offers homes for sale that are a great deal for buyers. You can find these homes in several areas of Charlotte, NC as well as surrounding cities. HUD offers some discounted programs including programs that allow buyers to put only a 100 as down payment in order to purchase properties in some designated areas. HUD will also pay up to 3% closing expenses for the buyer. The Neighbor Next Door initiatives are a collection of FHA’s home sales programs designed to help communities and promote homeownership. It is an excellent program for firefighter, emergency medical technician and teachers. HUD offers 50% discount on eligible properties.

Most loan programs today require a minimum of 3.5% down payment, but with some HUD homes, the buyer can still get an excellent deal and put only a 100 dollars down. For more information, please contact a HUD qualified agent at www.MyCasaBela.com. We will be happy to provide you with additional information about the HUD homes or any other program available for you.

Whether, you want to buy or sale a home, we can help!!

Thanks,

CasaBela Real Estate Consutlatns

Maria Ferreira - Realtor/Broker Charlotte NC & SC

Nothing Less Than What You Should Expect From a Realtor!

Maria is committed to providing a variety of real estate services to a diverse group of clients. These services include but are not limited to proficiently lead her clients during the process of buying and selling residential real estate properties in North and South Carolina but with a special focus in South Charlotte and Fort Mill. Maria has an extensive experience with first time home buyers, short sales, foreclosures, HUD homes and more. She is part of a team of professionals striving to provide clients with superior services. Although, teamwork is the trade mark of the group that shares, understands, and exceeds expectations when performing in any aspect of the real estate business, as individuals, each one of them have somehow specialized in one or more specific field in order to better address the needs of  clients. Maria is a buyer’s agent, and she works directly with the buyers guiding them through the process of getting qualified, choosing the most effective lenders and programs , understanding the implication, advantages, and responsibilities involved  in buying a home, looking for the right home at the most affordable price, submitting an acceptable offer, negotiating on behalf of the buyers, and most important, giving the buyer the peace of mind and assurance that choosing the right Realtor is the first step  in completing a successful real estate transaction

Maria Ferreira is a native of Brazil and has been living in the USA for the past 19 years. After living in Florida for most of this time, her family decided to relocate to Charlotte and she loves it. Maria has a Florida Atlantic University Bachelor’s degree in Business Health Care Management, but it is in real estate that she has found her passion. She speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese which gives her the capability of providing real estate service to a diversified group of people.  She is very personable and takes every opportunity she has to learn from others. She believes that a great Realtor will make the difference when her clients are purchasing and selling real estate. One of Maria’s goals is to carefully guide her clients throughout the entire process and provide high quality service that will result in a positive experience for every one of the people she works with.

Maria Ferreira

Realtor/Broker NC-SC

maria@mycasabela.com

704-287-7468 Cell

704-248-6127 Fax

CasaBela Realty

http://www.MyCasaBela.com

“It is all about attitude. “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it… We are in charge of our attitudes” (C. Swindol)

Beautiful Ranch For Sale. Windsor Park. 4321 Gillespie Ct. Charlotte, NC 28205

Beautiful Ranch For Sale. Windsor Park. 4321 Gillespie Ct. Charlotte, NC 28205

4321 Gillespie Ct. Charlotte, NC 28205. Windsor Park

There is no other home like this in the neighborhood. Beautiful house with high end kitchen upgrades, granite counter tops, new light fixture, wood floors throughout, new interior doors, completely upgraded bathroom, clean and well kept, french doors leading to deck, new roof,large back yard. That is not all!! you MUST see it!

• New roof – June 2007
• All new 6 panel interior doors – 2008
• New Trane air condition system – March 2008
• New heating unit /  Gas furnace – December 2009
• Completely remodeled kitchen with granite countertops – January 2009
• All new stainless steel whirlpool appliances – January 2009
• Refinished hardwood floors throughout entire house
• 1000- 1300 Total HLA
• 3 Bedrooms
• 1 Bathroom
• Large 0.62 Acres lot
• Completely Renovated!
• Granite Countertops
• Tile Bathrooms
• Mature landscape with lots of trees
• Hardwood floors throughout

Can you ask for anything better at this price????

John Paul Soto Charlotte, NC Realtor/Broker

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a deal.

Dream home for sale!!! Great conditions low price! Charlotte, NC

Dream home for sale!!! Great conditions low price! Charlotte, NC

10908 Delsing Ct. Charlotte, NC 28214

It is a Gorgeous home, with lots of upgrades, clean, and bright. Lots of windows and an oversized sunroom with the view of a large, private back yard with mature trees. The sunroom is the perfect spot for relaxation, entertain, and play games. It has 2 large skylights and lots of windows. Nice kitchen with tile floors, back splash, open family room with wood-burning fireplace.

• 1300-1700 Fin HLA

• 3 Bedrooms
• 2/1 Bathrooms
• 2 Story
• Great Floor Plan
• Great location
• Minutes from everything!
• Well Maintained
• Fireplace
• Lots of upgrades
• Fenced Back yard with lots of trees!
• 2 Car Garage
• Large Beautiful Sunroom!!!

John Paul Soto - Charlotte, NC Realtor/Broker

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a deal.

Short Sale!!! Beautiful townhouse in great conditions! Charlotte, NC

Short Sale!!! Beautiful townhouse in great conditions! Charlotte, NC

4717 Stoney Branch Dr. Charlotte NC 28216

Unreal deal, Short Sale! Gorgeous townhouse in a great location! Great floor-plan, lots of windows and a BEAUTIFUL kitchen. Professionally staged and cleaned! Large rooms with private bathrooms. Plenty of closet and attic space! Meticulous owner kept this home looking like new! This home won’t last!

• Short Sale!!!
• 1’100 SqFt
• 2 Bedrooms
• 2/1 Bathrooms
• 2 Story Townhouse
• Great Floor-plan
• Fireplace
• Professionally Staged
• Lots of Storage space!

John Paul Soto - Charlotte, NC Realtor/Broker

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a deal.

Charlotte, NC Latin American Festival

Charlotte, NC Latin American Festival

Don’t miss The Latin American Festival this Sunday October 11, 2009 from 12:00 until 7:00 pm. The Latin American Festival is one of Charlotte’s signature events. The festival features a variety of events, attractions, lots of food, and a great diversity of people.

This is an event you don’t want to miss. Come and enjoy  great food from all different countries of Latin America, listen to a variety of national and international known musicians and dancers  performing  throughout the day. There will be something fun for everyone in the family.

Come explore other cultures and traditions, taste all kinds of food and drinks, and most important, have fun! The festival is educational, entertaining, and it offers an excellent opportunity for networking. Invite your family and friends and be sure to join us!

When: October 11, 2009

Time: 12:00 noon – 7:00 pm

Where: At the Symphony Park in SouthPark.

John Paul Soto - Charlotte, NC Realtor/Broker

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a deal.

Selling your home? Improvements that give the best payback! Charlotte, NC

Selling your home? Improvements that give the best payback! Charlotte, NC

If you are thinking of selling your home in this tough “Buyers” market you better be one of this three options…

• 1. Be the lowest price in your area.
  2. Be the best, cleanest, most updated, and have very competitive price in your area.
  3. Be both!

If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, or finishing your basement, you probably want to get your investment back when you sell your home. But when it comes to payback value of home improvements, some are definitely more profitable than others. As a general rule, kitchen and bathroom projects usually get a nice return on investment, typically 90% or more. Things like adding rooms or finishing basements tend to pay back the least.

The type of project you do and how it fits in with other homes in the area can have a big influence on payback too. If you put your money into the wrong type of improvement, you won’t get your money back. But if you’re smart about what you do, you can make money. The payback will be better on improvements that are in demand and conform to neighborhood standards. Adding a second bathroom in a neighborhood where most homes have two bathrooms will give a high return on investment. Building a large addition that makes your home twice as big as the other homes on the block probably won’t pay back very well. Likewise, the popularity of a project will factor into how much it pays back. An improvement heavily customized to your wants and needs won’t pay back as well as something more common to other homes in the neighborhood.

Another factor to consider is the cost of the improvements. If you can do the work yourself, you can save significantly on the cost of the project and greatly improve the chances of getting a good return on the investment.

The list below is compiled from several published surveys and shows typical payback for some popular remodeling projects:

Kitchen remodeling – 90%

Add a bathroom – 90%

Bathroom remodeling – 80%

Install central heating – 90%

Install central air – 75%

Add a deck – 70%

Replace windows – 70%

Add a room – 55%

Build a pool – 45%

Finish a basement – 40%

Whatever you do, talk to your Realtor before doing ANYTHING! Do a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) and let your Realtor give you his/her advice. This will save you money on unnecessary upgrades.

If you have any questions please call us.

John Paul Soto - Realtor/Broker

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a de

First-time Homebuyers. Charlotte, NC

First-time Homebuyers

Your decision to buy a home in Charlotte, NC or surrounding areas is both a sound financial decision and a commendable achievement. Buying your first home is probably the biggest financial investment you will ever make. It is important to be well assisted  by a  team of professional Realtors to help you with such an important transaction.

As your real estate agents . . .

We will lead you through every step of the exciting home buying process at no cost to you!

We will help you define your “wish list” of features you want in your home, your neighborhood, and your Charlotte school district.

We will walk you through the mind-boggling financial details associated with buying a home, including understanding the various mortgages and home buying programs available to you.

We will monitor all new listings and alert you to new houses as soon as they are put on the market.

We will eliminate the stress involved in buying a home by putting our years of real estate experience to work for you.

Finding you a  perfect home is our business. Contact us today!

We will . . .

• Work at no cost to you!
• Provide detailed listing information not available to the general public.
• Negotiate the deal to save you money.
• Guide you through the avalanche of paperwork.
• Commit our time and energy to finding  the right home for you and your family!

Do not forget about the Tax Credit for first time home buyers!

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 authorizes a tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

Learn how you can take advantage of the tax credit to buy the home of your dreams! Call us today!

John Paul Soto Broker/Realtor NC/SC

John Paul Soto is the seller’s connection, and his specialty is to provide the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes in Charlotte, N.C. and surrounding areas. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul Soto will meet with the clients and assists them to stage the house, set the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts, local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquires, John Paul assures the seller that the services he provides and his commitment are essential for the successful closing of a deal.

Photo courtesy of Lumaxart’s Photostrem

Introducing CasaBela Realty, Real Estate Consultants in Charlotte, NC

CasaBela Realty Real Estate Consultants

Introducing CasaBela Realty, Real Estate Consultants Maria Ferreira and John Paul Soto are proud and honored to introduce CasaBela Realty, Real Estate Consultants. CasaBela Realty is a real estate company specializing in residential properties providing full service to residents in Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas. After working several years in real estate and enjoying great success in client satisfaction and results, we felt the need and desire to create our own company.  At CasaBela, we take pride in offering our listing clients and buyers with state-of-the-art technology, internet marketing, high class advertising, area knowledge and expert negotiation skills. CasaBela Realty is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service, making our clients our number one priority. Our Clients never have to wonder, “What has my agent done for me lately?We stay in touch with our clients on a weekly basis and deliver proof of our extensive marketing strategy. Maria Ferreira Owner/REALTOR Broker Maria is mostly a buyer’s agent, as she works directly with the buyers guiding them through the process of qualification, choosing the most effective lenders and programs , understanding the implication, advantages, and responsibilities involved in buying a home, looking for the right home at the most affordable price, submitting an acceptable offer, negotiating on behalf of the buyers, and most importantly, giving the buyer the peace of mind and assurance that choosing the right Realtor is the first step  in completing a successful real estate transaction. Maria is fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish. John Paul Soto Owner/REALTOR Broker John Paul is the seller’s connection and his specialty is web marketing and technology. John Paul is dedicated to providing the resources, expertise, and guidance to clients who are ready to sell their homes. From the initial contact with the seller to the closing of the deal, John Paul meets with the clients and assists them with staging the house and setting the listing price based on a careful and comprehensive market study. He provides facts and local statistics about subdivisions or neighborhoods, which is crucial for the client to make a wise decision when setting the listing price. He is also the source for promotion and marketing, which involves exposing the property to the buyers and Realtors by using several sources of online media, colorful flyers and brochures, property websites, social networking sites, and much more. By making weekly contact with the client and providing up to date information about the home selling process, viewing statistics, and inquiries, John Paul assures the seller that his commitment and the services he provides are essential for the successful closing of a deal. John Paul is fluent in English and Spanish. Vanessa Castaneda CasaBela Administrative Coordinator Vanessa is the professional in charge of making sure our clients always have everything they need, when they need it!  She is responsible for coordinating all closing-related activities and ensuring your closing processes smoothly and without issue.  When a property goes under contract, Vanessa manages the documentation process by setting up inspections, closing attorney, communicates with all parties, orders home warranties, contacts the lender, and handles any unexpected problem that could interfere with a timely closing of the transaction. Vanessa is CasaBela’s support person. She maintains written communication with previous and current clients, designs and distributes promoting and working materials, keeps up with daily schedules, keeps in touch with prospective clients, and most importantly, Vanessa makes sure that the day to day operations of the business runs in a way that benefits not only each Agent at CasaBela Realty, but the clients who we serve. Vanessa is the connection providing value to clients, lenders, service provides, and CasaBela business partners. Vanessa is fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Let us show you why CasaBela Realty is different in a good way. We appreciate and value every client and their referrals and our level of service demonstrates that appreciation. Let us guide you through the home buy/sell process and help make your real estate dreams a reality! . Thanks, . CasaBela Realty Real Estate Consultants Maria Ferreira 704-287-7468 Maria@MyCasaBela.com John Paul Soto 704-200-3232 JP@MyCasaBela.com Vanessa Castaneda 704-968-9043 Vanessa@MyCasaBela.com

Riverchase Estates. A desirable South Carolina Community!

Riverchase Estates. A desirable South Carolina Community!

Riverchase Estate Entrance

Riverchase Estates is a desirable community full of old world charm and modern amenities, mature trees, beautiful landscapes, 500 acres of natural trails and 2 1/2 miles of river access, private lake and a breathtaking club house. Located in South Carolina along the Catawba River just 25 minutes from the captivating city of Charlotte, and minutes from Ballantyne area! Riverchase Estates will be one of the most desirable communities in the area.

Riverchase Estate Map

The main boulevard or Riverchase Estates will be surrounded by preserve trees and beautiful landscapes. Design your costume dream home in a peaceful and beautiful setting and give your family the privacy and safety that they deserve. Riverchase Estates will be a gated community.

Riverchase Estate Club House

A distinguish club house reminiscent to a stately European castle will be your favorite place in Riverchase Estates. Riverchase Estates 10,000 SQ FT club house will feature an indoor state-of-the-art fitness center, theater room, basketball and tennis courts, play ground, amphitheater and a beautiful pool!

In Riverchase Estates you buy now and built later, bring your own builder and built your dream home. The developer is LGI. Beginning with their first acreage homesite community in Magnolia, Texas in 1995, LGI Development has grown from a respected local land developer into a nationally recognized corporation. LGI is so confident in the property that they are offering two year guarantee. The guarantee states that if in 24 months or more after the day you closed in your property, your land appraises for less than the price you paid, LGI will give you the difference. No question asked.

Riverchase Estates 1+ acres homesites are extremely affordable and well designed. The Riverchase Estates lots start in the high $60s!!! and they keep going up… If you wish to obtain more information and a personal tour of the area, please call (704)200-3232 or send us an email johnpaul.soto@exitsouth.com or call Sabir Mujtaba at 817-975-5404 or email him at sabir@lgiland.com, Sabir is the sales representative at Riverchase Estates. Through The Soto & Ferreira Group or by mention our name as the source of contact to Sabir, and you will be able to get a special discount!!!

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Thanks,

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(Note: I apologize for any grammatical errors in this blog. My primary language is Spanish and I am currently working on improving my grammar in English. Thanks for understanding.

John Paul Soto

John Paul Soto choose to work in Charlotte, NC real estate because he genuinely enjoy working with people, and believe it is an industry that rewards dedication and personal initiative. He also want to give back to his community, and he is currently employed as a firefighter for the Charlotte Fire Department.

John Paul Soto was born and raised in Guatemala, and moved to Charlotte in 2002 to attend college. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, and will continue to make his home in Charlotte, NC after graduation.

He takes great pride in his accomplishments and hope to continue to build a successful track record helping other people achieve theirs. He is now part of “The Soto and Ferreira Group” on of Charlotte’s NC best Real Estate Groups.

Thanks,

John Paul

John Paul Soto