Make Your Yard Pet Friendly

Pets – cats, dogs, birds, rabbits and even reptiles are part of our lives. In 2020, pet ownership in the U.S. rose to an all-time high of 70%, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA). Pets play a central role in comforting and offering companionship to their owners, which feels especially important now. No matter what pet you have in your house you want to keep them safe, happy and healthy. And that extends to the yard as well; it is important to consider the hazards to pets outside your home and plan ways to accommodate their needs in a safe way. The following are some ideas to get you started. 

Shaded Retreat. While your pet is outside, providing them a place to hide out from the heat of the sun is a good first step to keeping your pet safe. This can be a restful spot for them to take nap on a bed or put a pool underneath the shade for those water loving pets. 

Avoid Toxic Plants. Responsible owners should be aware of the plants that are toxic to their pets. Although it is unlikely that your pet will be enticed to eat your favorite begonia, it is important to know. Amaryllis, lilies, hyacinth, and daffodils are toxic for cats, while tulips, azaleas, oleander, iris, ivy, and peonies are just some of the danger plants for dogs. Ferns, palms, catnip, lemongrass, and hibiscus are some of the most pet-friendly plants. 

Preventative Medication. Fleas and ticks pose a serious health threat to your pets and now that they are likely spending more time outdoors, it is important to make sure your pet’s medication and preventative treatment is up to date. You can also restrict the habits of fleas and ticks by keeping a well-maintained lawn. 

Install a Fence. Fencing can give you peace of mind knowing that your pet can exercise in a safe environment. A fence also keeps your pet safe from the hazards posed by cars or pets on the loose. 

We’d love to help you and your furry friends find your new home! Visit our website for current incentives and available homes or call 910-798-3006 today! 

Creating a Happy and Healthy Home

It is likely that you are getting very familiar with the interior (and exterior) spaces of your home these days. As you navigate through the challenges brought on by the pandemic and sift through the ways to create healthier lives for yourselves and families, it’s only natural that you start with your home. Often overlooked, your home has considerable effects on your health. As a place where you often escape to after the stress of work or the hectic pace of life, your home needs to be a place of serenity to help you recharge from the day. 

Experts agree that there are some simple and effective ways to improve your personal spaces and create a true oasis of calm. Clean your clutter. Every time you walk past it you think about it and over a day you can spend a lot of energy on those negative thoughts. Everything should have a place. You’ll feel the tension leave the room as you toss away unneeded items or better organize an area. Add Plants. When in doubt, add more plants. Plants are the embodiment of energy; they add freshness and vitality to your home, and they can purify the air. Create a Healthy Sleeping Space. The body requires good quality sleep to regenerate itself. If this is interrupted by an unhealthy sleeping space it can result in poor health and well-being. Instead of hanging that TV, add some calming plants or surround yourself with items that make you feel loved and cared for. 

Your home is an extension of yourself, they’re not just the physical spaces you fill with furniture and décor. You want it to be welcoming, relaxing and filled with positivity. Hopefully these simple suggestions will help you slow down and notice the beauty of the present moment in your McAdams’ home. 

North Carolina Fun Facts

We might be a bit biased, but we think North Carolina is one of the most interesting of the lower 48 states. From the mountains and rolling hills, to the pine forests and beautiful coastline, North Carolina has it all! If you live in North Carolina, you know it is rich in history too, from influential places and people, the Tar Heel State has helped shape the United States. From historical facts to fun tidbits about our great state, there is so much to learn about North Carolina. We don’t claim to have the exhausted list below, but here are some fun things you might not have known about our amazing state. 

  • Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
  • The University of NC at Chapel Hill claims to be the oldest public university in the U.S. – the university first opened its doors in 1795. 
  • North Carolina grows more sweet potatoes than any other state.
  • High Point, North Carolina is the “Furniture Capital of the World.”
  • Putt-Putt Golf was created in Fayetteville, North Carolina by Don Clayton in 1954. 
  • North Carolina’s state song and state toast are called “The Old North State”. North Carolina is the only state with an official drinking toast. 
  • The Northern Cardinal is the state bird. 
  • The Venus Flytrap plant is native to North Carolina.
  • North Carolina was one of the original colonies.
  • Milk was designated the official state beverage of North Carolina in 1987.
  • The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned house in the U.S., and is located in Asheville, North Carolina.
  • Texas Pete Hot Sauce is actually from North Carolina. 
  • Asheville, NC has the most breweries per capita in the U.S., boasting roughly 100 local craft beers. Did you miss the fact about our state toast?! 
  • The state motto is Esse Quam Videri: To be rather than to seem.
  • Emeralds are naturally occurring in North Carolina. “Hiddenite”, the town in NC where the gemstone was found is named in its honor. 
  • Every North Carolina resident lives within a 30-minute drive of a community college campus. 

We have only just scratched the surface when it comes to fascinating things about North Carolina, but it’s easy to see why we think it is one of the most interesting states in the USA. 

Higher Education Abounds in Southeastern NC

From the Appalachian Mountains to the miles of white sandy beaches, North Carolina is known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. Something you might not know about our amazing state is that we also have one of the most valuable higher education systems in the country. North Carolina introduced our budding nation to the concept of a public university in 1789 and today it continues to lead the way in the arena of higher education. Students in North Carolina have a variety of higher education options, including large research universities, midsize colleges and small private liberal arts colleges.

North Carolina is home to numerous private colleges and esteemed public universities. We are home to four Tier 1 research universities, Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, NC State University and North Carolina A&T. Tier 1 refers to universities known for world-class research, academic excellence, an exceptional student body and the highest levels of innovation, creativity, and scholarship. 

NC Community Colleges are one of the most comprehensive community college systems in the country. Originally created in the years following World War II, in response to the shift from an agricultural to an industrial economy, community colleges in North Carolina continue to be deeply rooted in economic development and workforce training while also providing basic skills, literacy education and pre-baccalaureate programs.

North Carolina’s community colleges open the door to high-quality, accessible educational opportunities that minimize barriers to further education, maximize student success, develop a diverse and competent workforce, and improve the lives and well-being of individuals.

Wilmington is home to UNC-Wilmington, Cape Fear Community College and Miller-Motte College. With Brunswick Community College in Bolivia, NC, and Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville, NC, there is a good concentration of higher educational opportunities in our area. Whether you just want to take some personal enrichment classes or you have children readying for college or maybe you want to go back to finish your degree, Wilmington and the southeastern NC area is full of opportunities for you and your family!

Perks to Building a McAdams Home

At McAdams Homes, we knows that the journey to homeownership can be one of the most rewarding, yet overwhelming experiences in life. We are here to guide our customers every step of the way to make the home buying experience easy and enjoyable. From the first tour of one of our communities, until long after you have closed and are settling into your new home, your level of satisfaction is our measure of success. When you purchase a McAdams home, you get the attention of a local business with the assurance of a world-class homebuilder. We consistently provide service that exceeds the expectations of our customers during the most significant purchase of their lives. We know customers want a homebuilder with a solid reputation, we stand behind our homes and take pride in each and every one that we build.

Extras come standard. We offer amazing floor plans with incredible features that come standard in every McAdams’ home. You’ll enjoy granite countertops, 42” cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, premium plumbing fixtures, 9’ ceilings and crown molding throughout. 

Streamlined building process. Our efficient building process saves homeowners money and ensures your home is delivered on time. From the pre-construction meeting to the warranty follow-up after closing, you can expect a simplified process as we build your new McAdams home. Our Quality Assurance Representative will walk through your home with a comprehensive checklist to verify our high attention to detail, the functionality and construction of your home. You will also be provided with a detailed demonstration of your home systems, review the McAdams Homes warranty manual, and discuss other useful information. We will walk you through your new home and help verify any minor or major issues identified. We coordinate with your real estate agent to ensure a smooth closing process. 

Our homes come with a warranty. As the 1st anniversary of your home approaches, a Warranty Representative will review and discuss any issues with your home. This is an ideal time to submit a list of any warranty concerns. If any issues are found and are covered under warranty, they will be repaired or completed in the following weeks. See our warranty manual here.

Wilmington Area’s Award-Winning Health Care

We are fortunate in Wilmington, North Carolina, not just for the surrounding natural beauty and wonderful coastal climate, but also for the top-notch health care facilities and services offered in our area. There are an abundance of doctors, dentists and specialty physicians offering quality care for generations of families through all stages of life.  At the beginning of 2021, Novant Health and New Hanover Regional Medical Center celebrated the beginning of their partnership. The two NC not-for-profit health systems are teaming up to meet the needs of the growing region and to continue to promote the health of our community by focusing on patient care and access for all. 

Already we are seeing signs of the benefits of this partnership. The NHRMC Betty H. Cameron Women’s & Children’s Hospital has been named to Newsweek’s 2020 list of Best Maternity Care Hospitals. This award of distinction recognizes facilities that have excelled in the care of mothers, newborns and their families. Additionally, NHRMC has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, making it one of 212 hospitals across the country to be recognized for its high standard of care for heart attack patients. They also offer the largest team of board-certified cardiologists in southeastern NC. 

With an extensive network of doctor offices and hospitals, Novant Health and NHRMC have you covered from Brunswick County to Burgaw; no matter what stage of life you are in or what your healthcare needs are. It is very comforting to know that we have some of the finest medical facilities and care providers in the country right here in our backyard. Visit the NHRMC website for recent news and to see more of their accolades and recognition.

A Checklist for Your New Kitchen

Having the right inventory of cookware, tools, gadgets, and utensils in your new McAdams Homes’ kitchen will make cooking more enjoyable and give you more time to enjoy family, friends or even new neighbors. Maybe you want to update some items or wish to expand your culinary prowess? Take a look at the list of essentials below for some ideas on how to stock your new McAdams’ kitchen. Oh, the possibilities! 

Food Prep. Professionals will tell you that setting up beforehand is a must. Mise en place, a French culinary phrase which means “everything in its place,” is a tried-and-true plan of action when it comes to cooking whatever is on your menu. In a nutshell, you gather the ingredients and tools you need. Put your knife skills to work, make sure everything is measured out and in its own bowl. Getting your ingredients prepared ahead of time will require:

  • Various cutting boards, including one dedicated for meats
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Small bowls for spices and/or sauces
  • Grater
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Colander

Utensils and Tools. You will also need the following tools to help in preparing and cooking:

  • Knife set, including a chef’s knife
  • Biscuit cutter
  • Wooden or silicone spoon sets
  • Slotted spoon
  • Ladle
  • Whisk
  • Pizza cutter
  • Tongs
  • Spatulas
  • Meat thermometer
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Rolling pin
  • Stand Mixer, Hand Mixer and Immersion Blender
  • Strainers

Cookware. No matter what your level of culinary expertise is, here are some items that will help:

  • Frying pans
  • Multiple sized pots and saucepans
  • Baking sheet
  • Cooling rack
  • Roasting pan
  • Dutch oven
  • Muffin tins
  • Casserole dishes

Organize. Your kitchen will feel complete when your items are organized and easy to find. One of the great features of a McAdams’ home is the kitchen storage. From the pantry and island to the granite countertops and 42″ cabinetry, you’ll find plenty of space for all your tools and items. 

Summer 2021: McAdams Homes Update

Summer is here and just like the real estate market in southeastern North Carolina things are HOT, HOT HOT! Tune in as we share some juicy details about what’s coming down the pipeline for McAdams Homes.

Our Featured Project, The Landing at Lewis Creek, conveniently located off of Gordon Road near the I-40 exit, is in the full throes of new home construction with new families moving in daily.  The final phase will be released this fall and demand is strong with most of the homesites already under reservation and a full waiting list.

As The Landing at Lewis Creek winds down, we have our eye on our next project, Silo Ridge. This 75-acre, new home community will be located in Pender County and will offer 315 homes/townhomes. We will look to begin construction this year and pre-sells will begin in early 2022. The floor plans will range from 1752 to 2381 square feet and pricing will be released in early 2022.  We are not taking reservations at this time.  However if you’d like to be the first to receive new information on this project, sign-up here!

We look forward to what the remainder of 2021 has in store and keeping you looped in on what’s happening in Silo Ridge.  Stay tuned to our social media for progress pictures!

The McAdams Homes Team

Live Music and Events Coming Back to Wilmington NC

We are happy to see more events and live music coming back to Wilmington, North Carolina. We have been missing the many festivals and outdoor concerts we are so accustomed to in our dynamic and vibrant riverfront city. 

Bring your chairs, blanket and picnic dinner as you join in on a wonderful summer tradition by the Airlie Oak. Enjoy live music while taking in all the beauty of Airlie Gardens. With a schedule full of local Wilmington bands, be sure to check out their lineup, as concerts will sell out. 

The Hugh Morton Amphitheater, better known as Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, is truly one of the most magical and intimate places to see a show or play. With a backdrop of ancient cypress trees, towering pines and the lake, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Shows already scheduled this year include Tedeschi Trucks, Umphrey’s McGee, Scotty McCreery, Shakey Graves, Band of Horses, The Revivalists, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Big Something and many more. 

Live Nation is managing the Riverfront Park Amphitheater on the northern end of the Riverwalk in Historic Downtown Wilmington. This brand new and large capacity outdoor amphitheater will offer 2,400 seated and 4,800 lawn ticketed options, as well as a VIP area and on-site food and beverage options. With the natural setting of the Cape Fear River, the Battleship North Carolina and Riverwalk as the backdrop, concert goers will relish in the state-of-the-art facility. Check out the calendar of events lined up already including live music and comedy. 

Although it was delayed, it is great to see the North Carolina Azalea Festival events happening again in Wilmington. July and August will see the Azalea Festival parade, street fair, concerts and the garden party. 

Every 2nd Thursday, The Bellamy Mansion hosts “Jazz at the Mansion”. Be sure to bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy an evening out on the lawn! Beer, wine and snacks are available to purchase as well. 

Essentials to Get Your Summer Backyard Season Started

Whether you are having family and friends over for an impromptu patio party, hosting the entire neighborhood for a holiday bash, or enjoying the sunset from your covered porch, the following are some essentials to help make your McAdams’ home, a backyard summer oasis.

It’s all about the atmosphere and outdoor lighting can completely change a space. Place a string of lights over a seating area or by using them to border your space you will create a warm ambiance. Try incorporating light in a variety of ways through candles, firelight or even tiki torches. And leave the string lights up all summer, just switch out a strand or bulb whenever they burn out. You can also set the mood with a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. Be careful, with a setting this magical, your guests will want to stick around long into the night. And that’s why unbreakable drink and dishware are a must for grill season and summer patio living. 

For some, every season is grill season, but no matter what level of barbecue fanatic you are, the Wilmington Grill is perfect for our coastal climate. Made locally from heavy gauge 304 stainless steel, these grills stand the test of time. If you are already set on your grill, check out this StarNews article on local NC sauces, these are sure to get your mouth watering and give you some good ideas for what to throw on the grill.

Outdoor games are a summer staple and great way for guests to break the ice. From bocce ball, corn hole, croquet or you name it, the list of favorites games is endless. Just be sure to have plenty of sunscreen and bug spray or citronella handy for the pests. Also, be sure to have ample and comfortable seating, ice-cold drinks and there is no doubt that you or your guests will be enjoying your McAdams’ home.