Elite Builders Group Blog

Luxury Modern Craftsman Home: Clayton, NC Highlights

Are you looking for a luxury home that combines modern amenities with classic craftsman style? Look no further than this newly listed home in the Portofino Community of Clayton, North Carolina. This modern craftsman home is a perfect blend of comfort and style, featuring some of the most impressive features you can find in a luxury home. From its sophisticated interior design to its spacious outdoor living area, this home has something to offer everyone. Keep reading to learn more about the impressive features of this luxury modern craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina.

The Kitchen

297 Diamante Drive is a luxury modern craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina is the perfect place to show off your culinary skills. The kitchen features a 48” Thermador gas range and appliances, beautiful custom cabinetry, Quartz countertops, Calcutta gold marble backsplash, modern pendant lights and top-of-the-line, Thermador coffee and pellet ice machines, as well as a wine refrigerator.

Modern Chef's Kitchen at 297 Diamante Drive, Clayton NC

The outdoor space of the home includes a custom outdoor cooking area and a fireplace, so you can entertain your guests outdoors in style. There’s even a separate butlers pantry for the finishing touches.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or just learning the ropes, this kitchen will allow you to take your cooking to the next level.

The Great Room

Open Living Areas at 297 Diamante Drive, Clayton NC

A grand, open-concept space awaits in the great room. This expansive room is the perfect place to host family and friends for special occasions or everyday gatherings.

With a stunning 12-foot ceiling and wall of panoramic doors and windows, this area is bathed in natural light and features spectacular views of the outdoors.

The neutral color palette, stylish furnishings, and modern accents create a tranquil atmosphere to relax and unwind. Whether it’s for a special holiday gathering or simply having coffee on a lazy Sunday morning, the great room offers a warm and inviting setting for all.

The Master Suite(s)

The master suite in this luxury modern craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina is sure to impress. Boasting two exquisite owner’s suites on the first floor, both featuring spa-like en-suite bathrooms adorned with beautiful Calcutta gold tile. The first suite features a large walk in shower, soaking tub, makeup vanity and dual sinks with tons of storage. The second suite also features a large walk in shower and a soaking tub, perfect for hosting guests. Both bathrooms are complete with glass tile accents, custom lighting and intricate detailing, making them truly one-of-a-kind.

Incredible owner's ensuite bathroom at 297 Diamante Drive, Clayton NC

The master suite also has its own private sitting space, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views of the surrounding nature. With a gas fireplace, luxurious seating, and plenty of natural light, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a long day.

The bedroom itself is equipped with custom cabinets and shelving for extra storage and organization for a cozy feel. The room is also complete with an over-sized window that offers stunning views of the outdoor living space and beyond. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the sunsets or catch up on some reading.

Overall, the master suite in this luxury modern craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina is sure to wow even the most discerning buyer. With its spa-like amenities, first-floor access, and spectacular views, it’s the ultimate retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Outdoor Entertaining Spaces

Fantastic outdoor entertaining at 297 Diamante Drive, Clayton NC

Welcome your guests to the great outdoors with this luxurious home’s outdoor entertaining spaces. The large wooded lot provides the perfect backdrop for you to enjoy a cozy outdoor gathering with family and friends. An outdoor cooking area, complete with a custom fireplace, is perfect for preparing delicious meals, while the screened-in porch ensures everyone stays safe and comfortable.

To top it off, the Phantom electric screens and natural woven electric shades provide additional protection from the elements while still allowing plenty of natural light in. To keep your landscape lush and green, the home is equipped with a whole-house irrigation system. With all these features, your guests will be thrilled to spend time enjoying the great outdoors in comfort and style.

Energy Efficient Design and Construction

Front Elevation of 297 Diamante Drive, Clayton NC — default

The luxury modern Craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina has been constructed with energy efficiency in mind. From the moment you step into the home, you can feel the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating a home that is not only stylish and comfortable but also energy efficient.

From the exterior of the home, you’ll notice its sustainable construction materials, such as insulated siding, high-efficiency windows and doors and all brick siding. These features not only provide superior insulation from the elements, but also help to reduce heating and cooling costs.

Inside the home, energy efficiency continues with features such as a full home water softener and reverse osmosis drinking water system, plus luxurious waterproof hardwood flooring throughout the main level. The cozy family room has a gas fireplace surrounded by bright panoramic windows for optimal natural light. To further maximize energy efficiency, there are programmable thermostats with automated settings, as well as upgraded insulation in walls and attic spaces.

In short, this luxury modern Craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina is designed and built with energy efficiency in mind. Not only is it a beautiful and comfortable place to call home, but its thoughtful design and construction make it an ideal choice for those who want to save money on their utility bills while living in style and comfort.

See yourself in this home? Let’s talk!

If you can imagine yourself in this magnificent, modern craftsman home in Clayton, North Carolina, then now is the time to reach out to Michelle Odom, Real Estate Agent. Michelle has been working in the area for over a decade and knows the area inside and out. She will be able to answer any questions you may have about this beautiful home. Make the most of this incredible opportunity and contact Michelle today!

Local Farms Around the Triangle You Have to Visit

Spring has sprung! Summer is fast on its way here in the Triangle area, which means the days are getting longer and those temperatures are climbing fast! Now is the perfect time to get outside and explore the local Triangle community—before the heat and humidity set in! Bonus: it’s also just about strawberry-picking season here in NC!

Triangle Local Farms for Your Berry-Picking Needs

Need a weekend activity that’s fun for all ages? Take a trip to a local Triangle-area farm to pick your own berries, buy farm-fresh produce, sample fresh-baked goods, or just enjoy some outdoors time! The Triangle might be a huge metro area, but there are actually quite a few farms around here!

Here are some local farms open for business this spring.

DJ’s Berry Patch

Location: Apex
Perks: Pre-picked, pick-your-own, farm market

DJ’s is open for strawberry picking from mid April through late May. They also offer a fresh farm market filled with tomatoes, sweet corn, watermelon, cantaloupe, and more. Come fall, you can pick your own pumpkins, and Christmas time is perfect for trees!

Learn more: DJ’s Berry Patch

Ogburn Berries and Produce

Location: Willow Springs
Perks: Pick-your-own, roadside farm stand

This fourth-generation family farm has been providing the community with fresh produce since 1910! Today, they operate a roadside stand with seasonally available vegetables and berries. During picking seasons, you can also stop on by to pluck your berries right off the plant. Strawberry season starts soon!

Learn more: Ogburn Berries & Produce

Page Farms

Location: Raleigh
Perks: Pick-your-own, seasonal corn maze

Page Farm offers an activity for every season—strawberry picking in the spring, blackberries in the summer, pumpkins in the fall, and a corn maze, too! You can also experience a real working farm and learn more about the land and the people who farm it. They even offer a recurring Handmade Market. The first one will be on May 15, 2021.

Learn more: Page Farm s

Phillips Farms

Location: Cary
Perks: Pick-your-own, farmers market, seasonal corn maze and haunted farm, parties and events

Phillips Farms has been a working farm serving North Carolina for over 100 years. Today, they offer fresh berry picking, as well as a variety of seasonal and planned events. So stop by for some fresh produce, or plan a field trip, birthday party, or corporate event for something a little bit different.

Learn more: Phillips Farms

Porter Farms & Nursery

Location: Raleigh, Willow Springs
Perks: Pick-your-own, pre-picked, farmers market, homemade ice cream

Swing over to one of the farm’s two locations for your strawberry-picking fix, and stock up on farm-fresh produce while you’re there. Then, treat yourself to a cone of rich and creamy homemade ice cream (only at Willow Springs). During the fall, choose from a variety of pumpkins, gourds, and garden mums.

Learn more: Porter Farms & Nursery

Smith’s Nursery and Produce Farm

Location: Benson
Perks: Farm market and garden center, ice cream and coffee, wholesale nursery, events

Smith’s lets you experience small doses of the farm lifestyle—ultra-fresh produce, homemade ice cream, a variety of plants, gorgeous pottery, hanging baskets, and more. They also offer virtual and self-guided field trips and tours around the farm, as well as a unique Animal Pen Pal program.

Learn more: Smith’s Nursery and Produce Farm

Looking for More Ways to Spend Time in the Triangle?

If you haven’t guessed it, there’s a lot to love about living in the Triangle! We’ve got a little bit of everything, from local farms to big-city entertainment… and everything in between. If you’re ready to experience Triangle living for yourself or you’re thinking about making a move to the area, we’d love to help! Contact the Elite Builders Group today and learn more about how we can help you find the perfect home in just the right spot.

8 Ways to Get Your Home Ready for Spring

Spring is in the air! The days are getting longer, temperatures are climbing rapidly, and it’s the perfect time of year to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s also a great time for a little spring home maintenance! What better time to wash away the worries of winter than on a gorgeous spring day?

Spring Home Maintenance Tips You Shouldn’t Overlook

Maintaining a healthy home is a big part of protecting your home value—and your wallet. Even if you don’t plan to sell soon, it’s still a good idea to keep up on regular home maintenance and improvements. And if you are planning to list your home in Johnston County this spring… well, now is definitely the time to start preparing!

Here are some ways to get your home ready for spring.

Clear out the gutters

Clearing the gutters probably isn’t any homeowner’s favorite task, but it’s essential for ensuring the health of your roof—and the home beneath it. Old leaves and other debris can build up in your gutters, preventing rainwater from draining properly. Avoid pooling water, floods, and roof damage, and clean out your gutters!

Springtime is the perfect time to grab a ladder and head to the roof. Wear gloves, and clear out as much as your can by hand. Remove any leftovers with a hose.

Replace filters

After a long winter of running your heater, and before a long summer of air conditioning, find a mild spring day to change out your filters. Dirty filters can make your systems run less efficiently, and they can affect your air quality, too.

Don’t forget other filters around your home, like water filters and range hood vents. Ideally, most filters should be replaced every three to six months.

Wash exterior windows

Winter storms can leave your windows looking a little filmy. Cleaning your windows not only improves the look of your home (important if you’re selling!), but also makes it easier to maximize natural lighting and enjoy beautiful views!

Exterior windows can be tricky to clean, so it might be worth hiring a pro to tackle this project!

Clean the grill

a beautiful back patio with a clean grill

You might be ready for summer barbecues and dinner beneath the stars, but is your grill? Make sure it’s prepared by thoroughly wiping down and cleaning both the exterior and the interior, and scraping away any remains from last season. While you’re at it, check for damage around the fuel tank and hose, too. And don’t forget to gas up!

Clear outdoor furniture

What good is a grill if your backyard furniture is covered, cluttered, or in rough shape? Make your deck or patio the perfect place for your next get-together—or just a quiet spot to relax and read a book. Wipe down furniture, and replace any damaged cushions.

Don’t have furniture? Head over to your home goods store and pick some out, especially if you plan to sell!

Seed the lawn

Once you’re safely out of frost danger, it’s time to start giving your lawn some love. If winter has left you with bare patches, try to seed as early as possible, particularly if you plan to apply any chemical weed treatments. You may also want to take some time to remove any larger clumps of weeds in your grass before they spread.

Prep the garden

Spring is the time for prepping and planting! If you plan to add any new flowers or plants to your garden, you will probably need to start early. Once the temperatures really start to climb, it might be too late for seeds!

Prune shrubs & trees

Alleviate the damages of winter and kickstart summer growth with a little pruning and cutting. Remove any broken or damaged branches, and keep an eye out for trees that overhang your home. If you’re thinking about selling, or you’re worried about potential damage from fallen branches, you might want to hire a professional to remove larger overhangs.

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell This Spring?

Are you getting a jump on your spring home maintenance because you’re thinking of selling your Johnston County home in the coming weeks or months? We can help! Contact the Elite Builders Group today to learn more about how we can ensure you get top dollar for your home—without all the hassle.

January Favorite Things: Top-Rated Hikes

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we celebrated the holidays (while safely social distancing, of course). Hopefully you got the chance to see some lights, catch a virtual show, or visit a holiday market! This month, we’ll be taking our exploration outside into the Great Outdoors!

The Best Hikes Around the Triangle

a hiking trail covered in leaves and surrounded by trees

Winter in the rest of the world might be frightful, but here in the Triangle, the weather stays pretty mild—perfect for spending time outside and exploring some new parks! Looking for ways to get outside and enjoy the crisp winter air? Here are some top-rated hikes around the Triangle you won’t want to miss!

Sycamore Trail at William B. Umstead State Park

two people hiking with backpacks and poles

Length: 7.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

William B. Umstead State Park spans thousands of acres in northwest Raleigh, offering an extensive network of hiking, biking, and multi-use trails—in addition to boating and fishing on three lakes, camping, picnicking, and educational events.

No matter which trail you pick, you’re sure to enjoy a scenic hike. The Sycamore Trail, however, is a particular favorite among hikers. It rolls up and down light hills beneath a dense oak canopy, occasionally accompanied by a winding stream.

Cox Mountain Trail at Eno River State Park

Length: 3.75 miles
Difficulty: Hard

Eno River State Park is located just a few short miles outside of Durham, but it feels like a true escape into nature. Cox Mountain Trail is one of the park’s more challenging trails, with a long, steep climb from the river to the hilltop. The trail can be made longer by adding the Fanny’s Ford Trail Loop.

In addition to Cox Mountain Trail, the park offers a number of fantastic hiking trails, many of which meander through fields, forests, and historic sites along the rolling Eno River. Canoeing, kayaking, and backcountry camping are other popular park activities.

Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail

hiking backpacks on rocks beneath a fallen tree

Length: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: moderate

Located 350 feet above the Eno River in Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, Occoneechee Mountain is the highest point in the Triangle. The Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail might be just 2.2 miles, but the quick climb offers a nice challenge for both new and avid hikers. The scenery along the way comprises riverside forests and mountain laurel, but the views from the top are definitely the highlight of the experience.

In addition to the loop trail, the park offers fishing , picnicking, and ranger-led interpretive programs for all ages.

New Hope Trail at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Length: 8.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Jordan Lake is one of the top boating destinations in the Triangle area, but many don’t realize it’s also a fantastic hiking spot! The New Hope Trail is actually made up of two loop trails: the 5.4-mile Red Loop and the challenging 2.7-mile Blue Loop. Sweeping lake views, creek crossings, and steep hill climbs are all part of the excursion.

In addition to its network of hiking trails, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers nine access access areas around the undeveloped shoreline of the 14,000-acre Jordan Lake. There are over 1,000 campsites within the park, as well as swimming beaches, boat ramps, and RV hookups.

Falls Lake Trail at Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Length: 50+ miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Following the south shore of Falls Lake, the Falls Lake Trail travels over 50 miles from the Neuse River in Raleigh to the Eno River in Durham. Along the way, the trail connects to several recreation and camping spots, including Blue Jay Point County Park, Shinleaf Recreation Area, Falls Lake Park, and Rolling View Recreation Area. The Falls Lake Trail is part of the extensive Mountains to Sea Trail, which stretches 1,175 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks.

In addition to this and several other hiking trails, Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers mountain biking, camping, fishing, and swimming. It includes boat ramps, RV hookups, and five swim beaches.

That’s all for now! We hope you get the chance to get outside and check out some of these fantastic parks!

If you need us, or would like to chat about anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… happy hiking!

December Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we highlighted some of the top Johnston County coffee shops. Hopefully you got a chance to try at least one or two out! This month, with the holidays just a few short weeks away, we wanted to throw out some ideas for celebrating… while staying safely socially distanced.

Stay Safe, Social Distance & Celebrate the Holidays in NC

This holiday season, things are looking a little different. Travel plans have been put on hold. Holiday parties are taking place over Zoom instead of in the living room. Visits to friends and family are postponed until things have settled down a bit. But just because 2020 is a little unusual, doesn’t mean it can’t still be festive and fun!

This year, many holiday traditions are being adapted to work behind the screen, at a distance, or even from within the car. Looking for some ways to get in the holiday spirit this season? Here are some ways to celebrate… while staying safe.

Visit some spectacular light shows

Outdoor light shows are a great way to get in the holiday spirit—while staying safe and socially distanced. The Triangle area is home to quite a few spectacular light displays!

Lake Myra Christmas Lights

Location: 10 S. Cypress St. Wendell
Dates: Sun – Thurs, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri and Sat, 5:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.
More information: Lake Myra Christmas Lights

Fieldstream Farm Festival of Lights

Location: 8008 Old Stage Road, Raleigh (Garner)
Dates: Mon – Fri, 6:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.
Sat and Sun, 5:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.
More information: Fieldstream Farm

Lights of North Hills

Location: The Commons, 4160 Main St, Raleigh
Dates: Nightly, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
More information: Lights of North Hills Facebook

Piper Lights

Location: 5725 Fixit Shop Road, Wake Forest
Dates: Daily
More information: Piper Lights Facebook

Catch a holiday show

There’s nothing quite like a holiday movie or show to usher in the spirit of the season. If you’re looking for a production or screening to bring some warmth into the winter, the Raleigh area actually has quite a few options!

Theatre in the Park: A Christmas Carol (virtual)

Location: Virtual!
Dates: Daily, Dec 1 – Dec 31
More information: Theatre in the Park

Raleigh Little Theatre: This Wonderful Life

Location: Raleigh Little Theatre/PNC Arena
Dates: Thurs – Sat, 8 p.m.
Sun, 3 p.m.
Note: Seats limited to 25 tickets per show
Learn more: Raleigh Little Theatre

The Polar Express 3D at Marbles IMAX

Location: Marbles IMAX, 201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh
Dates: Fri – Sun, 10 a.m. and 2:45 p.m.
Learn more: Marbles Kids Museum IMAX

Explore art walks & holiday markets

Take a stroll through beautiful displays of local arts and crafts—and maybe get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting local businesses.

Downtown Raleigh Illuminate Art Walk

Location: Downtown Raleigh
Dates: Daily, Dec 11 – Jan 8
More information: Downtown Raleigh Art Walk

Raleigh Night Market Holiday Bazaar

Location: Moore Square, Raleigh
Dates: Sat, Dec 12, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun, Dec 13, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Learn more: Raleigh Night Market

Take a holiday-themed ride

Hop on the sled, trailer, or tractor and take a ride through holiday-inspired vistas to really get in the spirit of the season.

Light Hayrides at Lazy Hound Farms

Location: 207 David Road, Zebulon
Dates: Weds – Sun, 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Learn more: Lazy Hound Farms

Lights on the Neuse / Hayride with Santa

Location: 1620 Loop Road, Clayton
Dates: Fri & Sat, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Sun, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Open every day from Dec 18 – Dec 24
Learn more: Lights on the Neuse

That’s all for now! We hope you get the chance to celebrate the season, and we wish your and your loved ones a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season.

If you need us, or would like to chat about anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… Happy Holidays!

November Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we discussed some of the best “quintessentially fall” things to do in North Carolina. Hopefully you got a chance to get in the fall spirit! This month, with winter on the way, we want to share some of the best spots to cozy up with a warm drink in Johnston County. It’s time to find your new favorite coffee shop in JoCo!

The Best Coffee Shops & Cafes in JoCo

a woman placing an order at the counter of a coffee shop

North Carolina might not have the blustery cold winters of our more northern neighbors, but we do see some cooler temperatures down here—so cozy cafes and hot drinks are wintertime essentials! Looking for a new coffee shop to curl up in? Check out some of our favorites in the Johnston County area.

Ugly Mug Bean and Brew

Location: Garner

Why you’ll love it: Ugly Mug doesn’t just have coffee—it’s also got an artisan food menu, beer, and wine. They offer to-go orders and delivery, but the cozy decor and floor-to-ceiling windows provide a cozy yet sunny ambiance perfect for morning or afternoon sipping and sitting.

Learn more: Ugly Mug Bean and Brew

Boulevard West

Location: Clayton

Why you’ll love it: A small shop with big heart, Boulevard offers a full menu of beverages and small bites, including sandwiches, breakfast foods, and yes, specialty waffles. Order out, have it delivered, or sit and enjoy the bustle of Downtown Clayton from a sunny window seat.

Learn more: Boulevard West

The Gilded Pear Brew House

Location: Smithfield

Why you’ll love it: The Gilded Pear doesn’t just have a long list of coffee and espresso drinks—it’s also got an extensive English muffin menu, a crepe menu, a waffle menu, and a sandwich and flatbread menu. Stop by and satisfy all your cravings at once!

Learn more: The Gilded Pear Brew House

9BAR Coffeehouse

Location: Clayton

Why you’ll love it: Simple and friendly, 9Bar is a local favorite for its fresh flavors and its quiet, laid-back atmosphere perfect for meeting friends or working from home (away from home). They specialize in fresh, local, and organic ingredients, and their menu features everything from organic coffee and tea to locally sourced bagels to fresh sandwiches.

Learn more: 9BAR Coffee House

The Grind

Location: Benson

Why you’ll love it: Located just off I-95 in downtown Benson, NC, The Grind is easy to reach, yet still quiet and removed from the city bustle. Plus, in addition to its coffee and bakery menu, The Grind also serves ice cream!

Learn more: The Grind

Clayton Bakery and Cafe

Location: Clayton

Why you’ll love it: Since 2005, locally owned Clayton Bakery and Cafe has treated every customer like a part of the family—their personal touch and outstanding service is the backbone of their business. But friendly smiles and personal greetings aren’t all they’ve got to offer; they also have everything from coffee and cookies to whoopie pies to dessert cakes to dog treats. You can order online… but the dine-in experience is pretty essential.

Learn more: Clayton Bakery & Cafe

That’s all for now! We hope you get the chance to check out one (or a couple) of these unique and fun little coffee shops. Local business, after all, is a big part of what makes our community so special and unique.

If you need us or would like to chat about anything at all, never hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… happy coffee drinking!

October Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we took a little tasting tour through the foothills Western North Carolina to explore some of the area’s best wineries. This month, with fall finally in the air and Halloween right around the corner, we want to share some of our “quintessentially fall” favorites.

The Best Things to Do in Fall in North Carolina

North Carolina might not get the snow-packed winters of the north, but we certainly do experience some beautiful fall weather! Sunny days, cool nights, and plenty of changing colors make autumn the perfect season for spending time outside, exploring, and enjoying some quintessential fall experiences.

Looking for a way to celebrate the season? We’ve got some suggestions!

Go pumpkin picking

Nothing says hello fall quite like pumpkin picking! And luckily for us here in the Triangle, there are a lot of great options not just for picking your own pumpkins, but also for enjoying a whole farm experience complete with hayrides, cider, games, and more.

Ken’s Korny Corn Maze, located in Garner, is a local favorite, thanks to its 2.5 miles of corn maze—and its variety of other activities and games. DJ’s Berry Patch in Apex has fresh pumpkins, mums, sweet potatoes, apples, and more. Naylor Family Farm in Fuquay-Varina offers a pumpkin patch and corn maze, as well as a petting zoo.

Take a hike

Autumn is a wonderful time to explore some of the Triangle’s best parks and trails, thanks to the cooler temperatures and ample sunshine. The area is absolutely filled with beautiful outdoor spaces, from the well-known Umstead State Park and Lake Crabtree County Park to beautiful trails like the American Tobacco Trail and Neuse River Trail.

For a hike with a lot of natural beauty, head to the woods of Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary, which features miles of unpaved trails wending through scenic forest. A newly completed section of the White Oak Creek Greenway connects the American Tobacco Trail in Apex in Apex to Bond Metro Park in Cary… which in turn is connected by Black Creek Greenway to Lake Crabtree Park.

The Art to Heart Trail at the North Carolina Museum of Art offers a unique take on outdoor adventure with a tour through the museum’s 164-acre park—before it continues on behind Meredith College, through NC State University, along Pullen Park, and finishes at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

Enjoy a pumpkin spice…

Is it really fall without something pumpkin spice flavored? If you haven’t had your fill of fall-flavored treats, then it’s time to get to one of the Triangle’s best local cafes or bakeries to pick up a seasonal sweet treat.

In the mood for dessert? Check out a favorite local bakery, like Annelore’s German Bakery, Stick Boy Bread Co., or La Farm Bakery. Want a pumpkin spiced coffee or tea? A local cafe might be more your speed—try Fount Coffee & Kitchen, Bittersweet Raleigh, or Bread & Butter.

Take a day trip to see the mountain foliage

If you really want to get a feel for fall—that crispness to the air, the scent of fallen leaves, and of course, all those warm reds and golds still lingering on the trees—then you’ve got to take a trip west to the Foothills.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best ways to get a look at the rolling terrain and breathtaking fall colors that embody Western North Carolina. From there, you can connect to fantastic little mountain towns and cities, like Asheville, Boone, and Blowing Rock. You can explore beautiful parks and trails, like Stone Mountain State Park or the Mountains to Sea Trail. And of course, those breathtaking views just can’t be beat.

That’s all for now! We hope you get the chance to take a break, get outside, and enjoy some fun fall activities; this truly is a fantastic time of year!

If you need us or would like to chat with us about anything at all, never hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… happy autumn adventuring!

September Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we took a sneak peek at some of our favorite North Carolina barbecue joints. This month, with beautiful fall weather (and scenery) on the way, we’ll go on a drive to find some of North Carolina’s best wineries.

Let’s peep some beautiful fall leaves and take a wine tour through Western NC!

The Best Wineries in North Carolina

North Carolina might not be the first state that comes to mind when you imagine rolling hills lined in verdant vineyards, but our state is actually the only place in the world to grow every major type of grape—and the birthplace of America’s first grape!

Western North Carolina is rife with breathtaking vineyards nestled into rolling foothills, a breath of fresh air in the heart of a modern metropolis. Some of the finest wine experiences on the East Coast can be found right here in our own home state! Here are some of our favorite local vineyards.

Biltmore Estate Winery

rolling hills outside of biltmore estate

The iconic Biltmore mansion isn’t just America’s oldest home; it’s also the site of one of the country’s most visited vineyards. Nestled into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains just outside of Asheville, Biltmore Estate Winery offers complimentary tastings of handcrafted wines in a Renaissance-inspired tasting room. There is also a Vine to Wine Tour for those who want to learn more about the winemaking process… or just admire the estate’s sprawling grounds.

Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards

a beautiful vineyard with mountain views

Located just a few minutes from Hendersonville in Henderson County, NC, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards covers just 10 acres of grape-growing grounds, but its grapes are some of the best in the state. The year-round tasting room offers quite a variety of wines, as well as some truly remarkable views, thanks to its high elevation. And come summertime, the vineyard enjoys a lovely temperate mountain climate.

Overmountain Vineyards

Spanning 17 acres just outside of Tryon, NC, Overmountain Vineyards offers a number of French grape varieties—as well as a completely unique tasting and touring experience. Start with a little hiking out on their nature trail, then relax with some wine samples at the end of your sightseeing adventure. There’s also a cozy fire pit and a spring-through-fall event series that combines live music, food, and wine.

Treehouse Vineyards

Most vineyards offer daytime and evening samplings and tours, but Treehouse Vineyards is a little bit different. Not for nothing is it called “Treehouse” Vineyards; its grounds actually bear a series of charming treehouses equipped for overnight stays! Rent a cabin and spend the night enjoying award-winning wines and the beauty of nature undisturbed. It truly is a wine-sampling experience unlike any other.

Shelton Vineyards

Located in North Carolina’s wine-rich Yadkin Valley, Shelton Vineyards is actually one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast. Spend a tranquil afternoon wandering the valley’s winding pathways, then grab dinner at the Harvest Grill before turning in for a relaxing evening of tastings and tours.

That’s all for now! We hope you get a chance to escape the daily grind and visit some vineyards; everybody deserves a vacation now and again!

If you need us or would like to chat with us about anything at all, never hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… happy sampling!

August Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we explored the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains. This month, with most restaurants fully reopened, we’re taking a little tour across the state in search of some good ol’ Southern barbecue.

So hop on the backcountry roads and head towards one of these BBQ hot spots for some Southern comfort cooking and sweet tea!

The Best Southern Barbecue in North Carolina

It doesn’t get any more Southern than good ol’ North Carolina bar-b-q! Barbecue is especially near and dear to our hearts here at Elite Builders Group because Michelle’s granddaddy used to raise pigs on his farm, and every fall, he would cook a whole hog on the grill. So she knows a thing or two about good BBQ!

While these NC favorite spots aren’t Granddaddy’s famous pig roasts (complete with legendary vinegar sauce), they are some pretty darn good places to pick up some barbeque!

Wilbur’s BBQ – Goldsboro

Hands down our #1 favorite spot is Wilbur’s. This Eastern NC barbecue destination has been serving up fresh and smoky flavors since 1962, and its secret to success is its open pit and old-fashioned approach to cooking. The classic Wilbur’s whole-hog barbeque is slow-cooked all night, but it’s hardly the only favorite of this old-time establishment.

Wilbur’s closed briefly earlier this year, but it has reopened with the same much-loved flavors… plus a few more new additions, like BBQ Turkey, pork ribs, and link sausage. They’ve also added Southern pies to the menu—including banana pudding, pecan pie, and buttermilk pie.

Parker’s – Wilson

Parker’s has been serving up authentic Southern BBQ since the late 1940s, so it’s no wonder they’ve got flavor down to an art. Since then, they’ve opened several locations in Greenville, and it’s become a regional landmark in Eastern North Carolina. Weekly, the three Greenville restaurants prepare over 20,000 pounds of barbecue; there are employees cooking 24 hours a day, seven days a week!

The extensive Parker’s menu includes slow-roasted whole-hog barbecue dinners with signature barbeque sauce, chicken served fried, grilled, or barbecued, combination platters, seafood, and of course, traditional Southern sides, like creamy mac and cheese, crispy hush puppies, corn sticks, fried okra, French fries… and much, much more.

Moe’s Original BBQ – Asheville

Heading a little farther west, we come to Moe’s Original, another amazing spot for true Southern BBQ. Minutes from Downtown Asheville, Moe’s is surrounded by an atmosphere of small-town fun and entertainment. But its Alabama-style BBQ is the true selling point—that and the absolutely amazing macaroni and cheese.

Try a slow-smoked pulled pork sandwich or perhaps some Southern-fried catfish. Share a platter of smoked chicken wings or St. Louis-style spare ribs. And don’t forget your side of mac n’ cheese, cornbread, or banana pudding!

Southport Smoke House – Southport

If you are ever in the Southport area, you’ve got to get to Southport Smoke House! With real wood-smoked barbecue, great homemade sides, and a laid-back family environment, this hotspot is the perfect blend of flavor and friendly fun. The smokehouse serves all meat with a dry rub to allow eaters to fully experience the tender juiciness of a 12-hour smoked roast. But if you do prefer your meat with a little sauce, they have a whole table full of different kinds—from the East Coast to South Texas!

Indulge in some mouth-watering beef brisket or perhaps a pulled pork sandwich. Share some wings with the table, and add on some sides. And when dinner’s over, don’t forget dessert! We recommend the banana pudding.

That’s all for now! We hope we’ve enticed you to go out and treat yourself to some good, local eats. There’s nothing like good Southern cooking!

If you need us or would like to chat with us about anything at all, never hesitate to reach out.

Until next time… happy eating!

July Favorite Things

Last month in our Favorite Things series, we explored the best things to do along North Carolina’s Golden Coast. This month, we’re going west! While North Carolina continues to observe social distancing guidelines, some of the best activities for Summer 2020 are going to include the great outdoors.

Go ahead and buckle up, we’re road tripping to the gorgeous North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains for July!

wes-hicks-Qa2rx5RSAAI-unsplash — Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

Opportunities to Explore History and Culture

The Folk Art Center — Located right as you enter the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville. Here you will find a museum celebrating Appalachian craft traditions from artists spanning the various cultures that have shared this land.
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway — Built during Roosevelt’s New Deal Era to help American communities recover from the Great Depression, the Blue Ridge Parkway remains one of the most valuable parts of Western NC because it brings sightseers from all over the country! The road and much of the surrounding areas are protected by the National Park Service. There are many historic landmarks, views, visitor’s centers/museums, and wildlife to be seen along the way. Be sure to check ahead of time to see what’s open any time you travel the parkway. Certain locations are always subject to closing for repairs and other various projects/weather-related events.
Biltmore Estate — This luxurious mountain home to George and Edith Vanderbilt was completed in 1895 and remains the pinnacle of mountain luxury to this day. Visitors from all over the world love to check out all that Biltmore has to offer, from guided tours of the mansion to garden events and art shows.

The Best Dining With a View

lee-campbell-DZX5brm64yg-unsplash — Photo by Lee Campbell on Unsplash

Plant — To get the full Asheville feel, you’ll have to stop in for a vegan meal at Plant! They have been rated among the top vegan restaurants in the country! Whether you’re vegan or not, it’s worth being a little adventurous and trying new things! Especially if you want that local Asheville flavor while you’re visiting. It’s only a few minutes from downtown, too!
Newman’s Restaurant — If you’re looking for beautiful mountain views and delicious Southern comfort food made from fresh, local ingredients, then look no further! Located in Saluda as a part of the charming Orchard Inn.
Star Diner — Southern fusion gets no better than what you’ll find at Star Diner! As a small family-owned and operated restaurant snuggled in quaint Marshall, the expert chef and his team create thoughtful seasonal dishes that will definitely leave you wanting more!
Madison’s — If the name of your game is a nice romantic dinner, this will be your spot ❤️

For the Hikers

russell-payne-O4HkWBB5KTo-unsplash — Photo by Russell Payne on Unsplash

Devil’s Courthouse — Located in Pisgah National Forest. This is a beautiful wooded hike that leads to stunning 360 views!
Craggy Gardens — Not far from Asheville. Look for milepost 364 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is a great place to view wildflowers and find another absolutely gorgeous 360 viewpoint.
Graveyard Fields — South of Asheville off the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile 418.8, you’ll find Graveyard Fields and Waterfall. This is an excellent and easily accessible hike to get all your favorite things— rhododendron, waterfalls and mountain rivers, views, etc. We highly recommend this hike in the fall.
Linville Falls — You could easily spend DAYS exploring the Linville Gorge area! The Linville Gorge wilderness is great for day hikes as well as backpacking. There are several falls to hike to as well as some truly marvelous views. Pro tip- if you go backpacking, wake up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains by camping near a viewpoint.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Probably the most impressive National Parks managed land in NC! The Great Smoky Mountains spans NC and eastern TN! The most popular viewpoint can be found along the Appalachian Trail at Clingman’s Dome. Definitely bring your good camera for a photo op 😉
Transylvania Co Waterfalls (Brevard, NC) — If you need to find some nice waterfalls and rivers, Transylvania Co. is definitely the place to be!
Grandfather Mountain — While there are some nice family-friendly trails at Grandfather Mountain, there are also some seriously steep and strenuous trails not for the faint of heart. These trails feature cliffs, ladders, ropes, and probably the best views in all of North Carolina! Take it from us— you’ll want to heed the warnings for the more strenuous trails. They are only for the fittest and most daring hikers, but the views are unlike anything else in the NC mountains!

Family Fun

julie-thornton-UWdgTvf3m8g-unsplash — Photo by Julie Thornton on Unsplash

Sliding Rock — Located near Brevard, NC, Sliding Rock is excellent fun for the entire family. The cool mountain water will definitely give you a shock as you slide down a beautiful natural waterslide into the enchanting pools below. Be sure to pack out what you pack in— ie. be sure to protect our natural wonders by not littering!
Rafting the Nantahala River — There are several opportunities to raft the Nantahala, especially if you find yourself near Cherokee and would like to take a guided tour (highly recommended to get all the best local/insider information about the scenery you will see from the river). Be careful, because the Nantahala River has up to Class V rapids! So, don’t accidentally go too far unprepared. Guided tours are a great idea and there are several excellent companies to choose from.
Linville Caverns — If you’ve never explored any caves before, this is an excellent place to start! It’s a great opportunity for the family to learn about our state’s fascinating geological foundations!