News & Blog

Winston-Salem has earned a spot on WalletHub’s 2025 Happiest Cities in America list, joining three other North Carolina cities recognized for fostering strong mental and physical well-being. This ranking underscores Winston-Salem’s growing reputation as a city where residents enjoy a high quality of life, thanks to its vibrant community, economic opportunities, and rich cultural scene.

Earth Day is a time to reflect on our planet's beauty and the responsibility we all share in preserving it for future generations. Winston-Salem offers a myriad of opportunities to connect with nature and make a positive impact on Earth Day and beyond. From community events to outdoor adventures, here are five meaningful ways to celebrate Earth Day in Winston-Salem.

This year, the March equinox occurs on the 20th, marking the astronomical first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. As the rhododendrons begin to blossom, this season is prime time for outdoor activities and gives the fall foliage in Winston-Salem and across the Carolinas mountains a run for its money. In addition to its vibrancy, spring is known as the best time of the year to sell real estate in U.S. If you have not fixed up your home during quarantine, take notes of these tips to prepare your home for spring in the Carolinas: Clean Gutters and Downspouts Climb a ladder and clear out any debris that may have accumulated in the gutters. This can be done with a trowel or small shovel. Pay close attention to the area around the downspout. If there is clogging, it won’t drain properly, which can cause your gutters to sag. 2. Check for Roof Damage While you are up the ladder, examine and assess any potential damages to the roof. A roof that needs extensive repair can be quite off-putting to prospective buyers, so make sure to keep an eye out for leaks, curled-up shingles, dark streaks, and moss. If you find problems, you may want to have them repaired. Reach out to your insurance rep to see if your homeowner’s policy or home warranty may cover some of the costs. 3. Repaint with Neutral Colors A fresh coat of paint can give your home an instant facelift at a reasonable cost. The best paint colors to pick are neutrals, such as agreeable gray and different shades of white. If you are on a budget or in a time crunch, prioritize the rooms that are painted bright colors, as vivid hues may not appeal to the broader spectrum of buyers. 4. Refresh Your Linens The cheapest way to give your home a new look is to change out pillowcases, duvet covers, and throws across your house. You can play around with geometric patterns and bolder colors against neutral pieces of furniture. 5. Keep Up with Your Lawn Care A well-kept yard can add significant value to your home’s curb appeal. Make sure to mow your lawn, trim back trees and shrubbery, and water your plants and flowers to keep them lively. Are you interested in purchasing a home in Winston-Salem or the surrounding areas? The Sharpe Mortgage Team would love to discuss your financing options and refer you to one of our trusted real estate partners. Call us today !

House hunting is arguably the most enjoyable part of the homebuying process, though it usually requires a great deal of patience until you find a home you love. In a hot real estate market, it also means that when that moment comes, you will need to act fast and be ready to write a check. To make sure you are ready to put in your best offer on the house of your dreams, have a look at these tips.

Spring is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of Winston-Salem's public gardens! From historic estates to quaint botanical sanctuaries, let’s explore these four gardens that offer a haven for nature enthusiasts, garden lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustle of daily life.






