Tag Archives: Triangle

Hilltop Farms of Willow Springs

Owned by Fred Miller and his wife Virginia Rowland Miller (who was born and raised on the land), Hilltop Farms of Willow Springs started out as a 44 acre Tobacco Farm in the 1750’s. Since Fred and his wife took over her family-owned farm, they reshaped the 44 acres into a tasteful 44 acre Organic Produce Farm. What makes Hilltop Farms different and unique from other local farms? The answer is all in the way they farm. First certified in 2004 to grow Certified Organic Produce and being the ONLY USDA Certified Organic Produce Farm in Wake County, they still hold that title today! Continuing to expand their knowledge and finding innovative ways to farm more organic produce for the community. You can find their fresh products at any of THESE fine stores and restaurants! Priding themselves to growing organic products such as herbs, fruits, flowers, and vegetables of all sorts, protecting not only their soil but the community they feed. They use NO chemical pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or fertilizers on their crops along with their use of NON-GMO seeds. Although on our end we aren’t too sure of what some of these “icides” are, we know that we do NOT want them in our produce so knowing we have local Farmers ridding these chemicals from their crops makes us pride them for doing so. Their Farm-stand recently opened to the public this past Saturday, February 12, 2022. Winter hours are 1pm – 4pm on the second and fourth Saturday’s of the month through March. Currently you can find fresh greens, Hilltop honey, eggs, Carolina mushrooms, and veggies! Interested in Organic Farming? Looking to help better the quality of produce? Look no further than the CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program Hilltop Farms offers on their farm. Farmer Fred explains it like this:
“A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a farm membership program that relies on its members to join prior to the start of the harvest season to provide the farm with “seed money” to purchase actual seed, fertilizer and so on for planting the new crop. In return for their support, members receive a weekly or bi-weekly delivery/pick-up of fresh, chemical-free vegetables grown on our farm! Please, check out our Harvest Schedule on the Join page that shows you what we intend to grow this year and what month to expect it’s harvest and find it in your weekly box!”
Want to join the team and learn more on how to sign up? There is still time to do so! Click HERE to learn all about how to sign up for the program, learn more about what you will be doing, the months worked, and so much more!

What can you find throughout the months of operation?

Arugula, Snap Beans, Blueberries, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Collards, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Kale, Lots of Lettuces, Mizuna, Mustard Greens, Onions, Okra, Pac Choi, Peas, Peppers, Potatoes, Radishes, Spinach, Squash, Strawberries, Sweet Potatoes, Tatsoi, Lots of Tomatoes, Turnips, Watermelons and Winter Squash!

Head over to their website to find some yummy recipes straight out of the families cookbook! Here is my personal favorite —–> Chinese Salad

Welcome Home to 252 Golf Vista Trail, Holly Springs

Welcome Home to 252 Golf Vista Trail, Holly Springs | 12 Oaks 12 Oaks Golf Course Community is a family-oriented neighborhood that you will be happy to call home right in the heart of Holly Springs. This private club is filled with so many delightful and useful amenities you are certain to enjoy every day of the year whichever season it may be! On the grounds of 12 Oaks you will find the Clubhouse with an enchanting members-only dining room along with an upscale bar full of conversations with friends waiting to be had. Their award winning Golf Course designed by Jack Nicklaus is one that will keep you on the greens everyday. Enjoy private event spaces for parties of all kinds and three swimming complexes filled with saltwater and splashes during the hot months. The elegance and peace of mind that has surrounded this community is sure to bring homeowners tranquility and many memories throughout the years to come. We spoke with the homeowners of 252 Golf Vista Trail and asked them a few questions regarding their beautiful abode. Here is what they had to say – What first attracted you to your home?
“The neighborhood. We enjoyed the several amenities the neighborhood offered. Three pools with water slides, three playgrounds, greenways, and a clubhouse with a pub!”
Any memories in your home that you would like to share with your buyer?
“Enjoyed Summer nights on the large patio with firepit and music.”
What would you consider is your home’s best selling feature?
“The open floor plan allows family to all be together while still allowing separation for working from home.”
Anything about the location or neighborhood of your home you would like to share?
“Perfect location to Holly Springs and Apex. Holly Springs shopping center is 1 mile away and Downtown Apex is 10 minutes away!”
Anything else?
“The Clubhouse offers monthly events for families! i.e. Halloweenfest, Polar Express, Easter Brunch.”
This gorgeous home was sold in Coming Soon status and site unseen! WOW!

2021 YEAR-END MARKET UPDATE

Happy New Year! Looks like our local real estate market will continue to be a buzz topic in 2022. The Wake county Register of Deeds office just reported December 2021’s Median Sales Price for Wake County Real Estate was $411,000, the highest of all-time, wow! Most of our numbers trended slightly lower however with a 10-30% increase over last year’s SALES PRICES! We took an in-depth look at our 2021 housing market, in particular compared to our 2020 numbers. See our report Here. 2021 Year-end Just like last year, we have a high number of new construction homes that had not closed yet so I took those numbers into account again as well. It looks like some of our new homes are starting to catch up a bit with supply so that is helping improve our inventory. This improvement is mainly being seen in the outer areas of our market; Harnett County home sales prices have increased by as much as 30% over 2020 pricing whereas Wake County was more in the 20% range. Front Porch Realty has some exciting news; we now have a satellite office in downtown Clayton! This office location helps us round out our service to the entire west, south and east of the Triangle. Be sure and think of us if you have friends, family, or business partners Clayton way. If you would rather receive this report by email, please let me know. In addition, if we can be of any assistance to you or your clients, rest assured they will be extremely satisfied with our level of professionalism and expertise. Please stay safe and we hope to see you real soon!

Fuquay Mineral Spring Park

Discovered in 1858 by two farmers Davey Crocket Fuquay and Stephen Fuquay while plowing their father’s farm, now a historic landmark in Fuquay-Varina. The Mineral Spring was believed to have healing powers. Travelers came from all over to indulge in the mineral waters. This historic Mineral Spring was believed to cure kidney and intestinal ailments. Today locals and visitors still visit The Mineral Spring and it’s beauty. You will find a gazebo with easy access down to The Mineral Spring (be careful not to slip!). Picnic tables surround The Mineral Spring making it a lovely spot for an afternoon picnic! It is a peaceful place to find yourself strolling through the park, enjoying nature, listening to the trickle of the spring fountain. We highly recommend making this a stop if you have not yet taken the time to visit.

Naylor Roadside Market

Nestled right outside of Fuquay-Varina’s city limits heading towards Lillington, you will find Naylor Roadside Market and right next-door is family fun zone Naylor Family Farm & GIANT Corn Maze. The Naylor’s started off with the Farm & Corn Maze back in 2011 and since have added a Farm Market Barn including a concession stand, produce stand, indoor/outdoor picnic area, and restrooms. The Market consists of goodies throughout all seasons. In the spring/summer you will find a beautiful array of flowers and delicious juicy watermelon. In the fall time, pumpkins for miles and produce to match the season! They sell locally made NC products including jams & jellies, candles, salsas, honey, and so SO much more! When the sun is shining in the spring and summer months, Naylor Roadside Market offers a variety of food trucks for you to enjoy! Be sure to follow their social media pages to keep up to date with all the family fun to be had at both Naylor Roadside Market and Naylor Family Farm & Corn Maze.

The Corner Biergarten

Fuquay-Varina’s very own indoor Biergarten with southern hospitality! The owners, Mike and Anne moved to the area in 2017 and surely enough agree it is the BEST decision they have ever made. They opened TCB with much knowledge in brewing their own beer and running a similar spot prior. Inside you will find plenty of games, beautiful seating areas with low-lighting, coolers full of all types of beers and in case you get a craving for something salty, they offer a gigantic Bavarian pretzel, YUM! The Biergarten will often have local food trucks so be sure to follow their social media pages to see when your favorite will be visiting! “TCB is passionate about being dog-friendly! Bring in your pup and enjoy the surroundings. We support local K-9 rescues and are dedicated to providing a safe and unique experience for our “fur-baby” patrons, inside and outside of our venue. In fact, we even have a selection of “beers” & treats crafted for our four-legged friends.” They also have a special donation box for any extra doggie supplies! Follow RoarNC for more information, they also have a Facebook page!

Inner Beast Hatchet House

Fuquay-Varina is filling up with all sorts of fun activities for date night out, family night out, team building outings, etc. The newest addition to activity based venues that are popping up is family-owned Inner Beast Hatchet House. The newest axe throwing spot is right here in wonderful downtown Fuquay near shopping, food, and breweries. What all should you expect at Inner Beast Hatchet House? TONS of excitement, that is for sure! They offer projection based games for throwing your axe at such as Zombie Shootout, Tic-Tac-Toe, Cornhole, and so many more! Never thrown an axe before? Not to worry, they have AXEperts that will check you in and demonstrate the safe and proper way to throw your axe. If you need to quench your hunger or thirst during this time, not to worry! Inner Beast Hatchet House offers canned beer, water, and snacks! When you go to their website to sign up for a time-slot, ensure you properly fill out your waiver before you head over there! You may book either a 60 minute slot or a 90 minute slot, this will be timed for you while you are throwing. They also offer bigger party bookings such as birthdays, work social events, bachelor/bachelorette parties, etc. Be sure to check them out, YOU DO NOT want to miss this new fun edition to Fuquay-Varina.

North Carolina State Fair

Growing up in North Carolina is a unique and wonderful experience, ask anyone. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the crystal coast beaches you have the best of both worlds. Right in the middle of it all is the State capital, Raleigh which is just outside of our town of Fuquay-Varina.

One thing North Carolina is big on is tradition. Every year the North Carolina State Fair is held in Raleigh at the Fairgrounds. Crowds gather at the fair grounds to enjoy rides, food, free entertainment, and plenty more. Last year was an unprecedented time for everyone and unfortunately the State Fair could not be held as usual. They did find a way to continue the tradition by offering a small variety of the usual fair food vendors but it was nothing like we are used to. This year the N.C. State Fair is back and better than ever!

 

The 2021 N.C. State Fair will be held from Oct. 14 – Oct. 24, tickets are on sale now, click here! Whether you are a thrill seeker or a teacup rider or just enjoy eating copious amounts of food it is a fun-for-all-ages event! With over 90 rides this year including tons of new ones, NEW FOOD VENDORS, and tons more, don’t miss the fun in 2021! 

DO THESE BRISKET MAC AND CHEESE EGGROLLS BY FATBOYS BBQ NOT LOOK DELICIOUS?!?!

Assaggio’s Pizzeria and Ristorante

Craving authentic Italian cuisine but can’t find the time to make it to Italy? You are in LUCK! Just around the corner in Fuquay, Assagio’s Pizzeria and Ristorante is a classic Italian restaurant with specialty pizzas, Stromboli’s, gyros, calzones and so much more more.

Tom and Amy McGrath, the owners of the Fuquay-Varina Assagio’s, met here in North Carolina and married in 2000 later having 2 kids. Opening their first owned restaurant in 2004, Tom was eager show off the skills he has been acquiring since working in the restaurant industry in High School. Tom and Amy love what they do, how could you not when working with pizza?! As Tom stated when asked why he decided to open an Italian restaurant? The answer was simple, “I LIKE PIZZA”! Assiago’s takes pride in their family-friendly atmosphere including wonderful food and great service.

Assaggio means ‘taste’ in Italian and this wonderful pizzeria certainly lives up to their name. Have guests coming over? Assagio’s does catering as well! Be sure to take a look at their MENU and stop by for a bite!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2020 has been quite the year for surprises and hardships and we are all ready to bid it farewell! FRONT PORCH REALTY has been working hard to find some great New Year’s options and wanted to share what we have found with all of you! All are held locally within the Triangle. If you’ve been stuck at home and just dying to get out and do something fun, now is the time to do so! New Year’s Eve Five Course Meal – Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing From 4:30pm to 9pm (201 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603) Enjoy a special evening at the Wye Hill. Wind down, relax and socialize (at a distance of course). Bring your friends or family to join you as you spend your last moments of 2020 together! For safe distancing the setting will be held outside on their heated, covered and cozy patio. It’ll be a perfect night as you enjoy the 5 course meal they will be serving and their amazing dessert to top it off. New Year’s Eve Light Show – Holland Road Lights Starts at 5:30pm (409 Holland Rd, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526) A fun-filled drive by experience as Holland Road Lights wraps up another season with an outstanding show. Enjoy a spectacular light show and hear hard hitting beats, nothing will stop those hips from moving! There will even be free glow sticks while supply lasts! WRAL Nights of Lights – WRAL TV Starts at 5:30pm ( 2105 Umstead Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603) Take a drive through Dorothea Dix Park and check out the mile long holiday lighting. You can’t get any safer than watching the show from your car. Don’t miss the last day to see it! N.W.L. Un-New Years Eve Party – Niche Wine Lounge From 6pm to 10pm (109 N Main St, Holly Springs, NC 27540) Toast at 8:30pm for the New Year! Eat good food and jam to live music played by Liz Reedy. Festivities will take place on their heated outdoor seating area. Lights On The Meadow – Lights On the Meadow From 6pm to 9pm (9301 Hay Meadow Ct, Raleigh, NC 27603) This family began sharing their joy 23 years ago! Celebrate with them and see their light show. You may even see some favorite characters such as Frosty, Rudolph, and Mickey and catch a glimpse of Santa himself. They have over 40 inflatables to enjoy! You will want to tune to channel 88.3 FM to listen as the lights dance to the music. This will be a fantastic treat for the kids! A Night To Remember, A Year to Forget – Tin Roof Raleigh Starts at 6pm (304 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603) Come join the crew as they toast 2020 goodbye and say “hello” to the new year! Table reservation will be required. They will have packages that include Champagne for the Table, Appetizer Platter, your choice of Domestic Bucket of Beer or Bucket of Seltzers. Fees will apply once you reserve. HAPPY NEW YEAR from our FRONT PORCH family to yours! We are here for you for any local real estate need you may have! Let us know HERE!