Despite a market turndown, Realtors remain optimistic that Durham and other nearby North Carolina communities will hold their value due to the many amenities they offer.

"Nestled among the native long-leaf pines in the heart of the Tar Heel State, lies a cluster of delightful communities with a quality of life second to none," says Realtor Tom Menges. "Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest and Chapel Hill make up an area that has been ranked among the nation's best places to live, start a business, raise a family and get a world-class education. At the core of the criteria for these ranking, you'll discover unique neighborhoods and communities that are steeped in tradition and history with a rare blend of cultural diversity of people from around the world.

"What is your dream home?" continues Menges. "Is it brand new, or in an established neighborhood? Out in the country or within walking distance to restaurants and stores? No matter what's on your house "wish list", there's a home that's just right for you. You can choose from everything from a home on the golf course to a loft apartment downtown, a trendy townhouse to a horse farm or a great retirement community."

"Durham today ranks among the top cities in the United States for its standard of living," says Realtor Rick Freeman. "Once a quiet town with its roots in textiles and tobacco, Durham is now a pacesetter in medicine, education, research, high-tech industry and the arts. With a population of over 223,000, Durham is North Carolina's fifth largest city. Unlike Wake and Orange Counties, the city of Durham is the only incorporated municipality in the County of Durham. The city is located 23 miles northwest of Raleigh and 12 miles northeast of Chapel Hill."

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Published: October 29, 2004

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