Real Estate By Design

This week’s Advice by Design blog explores some of the most common things first-time buyers overlook, from maintenance and closing costs to neighborhood fit and long-term ownership responsibilities.

Read more: realestatebydesignnc.com/learnmore

Weekend Event Highlight

Celebrate five years of community, creativity, and local flavor during a full day of nostalgia-inspired fun. This Y2K-themed anniversary party transforms the venue into a playful gathering space packed with activities for all ages, including retro arcade gaming, a boom-box-shaped bounce house, chalk art, yard games, creative workshops, and interactive experiences throughout the day. Disposable cameras and a retro photo booth add to the throwback atmosphere, while local vendors and makers bring even more energy to the celebration.

As the day unfolds, visitors can explore the campus, connect with friends, discover local businesses, and enjoy a festive community atmosphere that reflects the spirit that has helped make this destination a favorite gathering place in RTP. The evening concludes with “A Bite of Boxyard,” a social tasting experience featuring food and beverage offerings from several beloved vendors, creating a memorable finish to a milestone celebration.

Saturday, 11 AM–8 PM
Boxyard RTP

See more weekend events at RealEstateByDesignNC.com/WeekendGuide

Thank you, Durham!

Because of your support, Real Estate by Design has been recognized for the 8th time as a Best Real Estate Company winner in Durham Magazine’s 2026 Best of Durham, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

To our clients, agents, friends, neighbors, and supporters: thank you for your trust, your referrals, and your confidence in our team. This recognition belongs to everyone who has been part of our success and supported our mission of helping buyers and sellers throughout the Triangle.

We’re proud to call Durham home and honored to be part of such an incredible community. Thank you for allowing us to be part of so many important milestones, and for continuing to support Real Estate by Design.

Weekly Home Maintenance Tip

Deep Clean Carpets and Floors

With summer approaching, now is a great time to give your home’s floors a little extra attention.

Daily foot traffic, pets, and seasonal pollen can leave behind more dirt and debris than regular cleaning removes. Consider deep cleaning carpets, mopping hard surfaces thoroughly, and reaching those often-overlooked corners, edges, and under-furniture areas.

A deeper clean helps refresh your living spaces, improves indoor air quality, and creates a more comfortable environment for the months ahead.

Fresh floors can make the entire home feel cleaner, brighter, and ready for summer.

Just Sold!
631 Near Post Drive
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

Congratulations to Geoff Boone and his buyers on the successful purchase of this beautifully maintained custom-built home in Fuquay-Varina. From the welcoming front porch and screened rear porch to the thoughtfully updated systems, spacious primary suite, and timeless finishes throughout, this home offered the perfect combination of comfort, quality, and everyday functionality.

The best real estate experiences begin with understanding a client’s goals and finding the home that truly fits their lifestyle. Geoff Boone is committed to helping buyers navigate the market with confidence, uncover opportunities, and make informed decisions every step of the way. If you’re ready to find your next home, Geoff is ready to help.

“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.”
Anaïs Nin

Growth rarely begins with certainty. More often, it begins with a decision to move forward despite uncertainty and trust that new possibilities will emerge along the way.

The opportunities that shape our lives often start with the courage to take the next step.

Offer Accepted!
617 Country Lane
Holly Springs, NC 27540

Congratulations to Geoff Boone and his buyers on having their offer accepted on this charming Holly Springs home. With a spacious lot, no HOA, inviting living spaces, a screened porch, and a large fenced backyard, this property offered the perfect combination of comfort, flexibility, and convenience in one of the Triangle’s most desirable communities.

Successfully navigating today’s market takes preparation, strategy, and strong representation. Geoff Boone works closely with his buyers to identify the right opportunities, craft competitive offers, and guide them confidently through every step of the process. If you’re ready to begin your home search, Geoff is ready to help.

Orange County’s housing market continued to gain strength in May.

Homes sold seven days faster than in April, median price held at $590,000, and inventory reached its highest level of the year. Buyers have more choices, but demand remains strong for well-positioned homes across the county.

Explore the full May market update:
realestatebydesignnc.com/orangeupdate

Under Contract!
1304 Professor Place
Durham, NC 27713

Under contract in just 4 days, this Chancellor’s Ridge home captured immediate buyer attention with its combination of location, updates, and lifestyle appeal. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac near the American To***co Trail, the property offered a private wooded setting, a dramatic two-story living space, a main-level primary suite, and extensive recent improvements including a new roof, HVAC systems, water heater, and carpeting.

When exceptional preparation meets strategic pricing and marketing, strong results follow. Lisa Ellis has spent decades helping sellers position their homes to stand out in the market and attract motivated buyers quickly. If you are considering selling your home, now is the time to start the conversation.

Durham Highlight:
Pizzeria Toro

Located in the heart of downtown Durham, Pizzeria Toro has become one of the Bull City’s most recognizable dining destinations, known for its wood-fired pizzas, lively atmosphere, and thoughtfully crafted menu. The restaurant blends rustic warmth with an energetic open-kitchen experience, where the glow of the wood-burning oven becomes part of the evening itself.

While the pizzas remain the centerpiece, the menu extends well beyond traditional favorites. Seasonal small plates, house-made pastas, fresh salads, and carefully selected ingredients create a dining experience that feels both approachable and elevated. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and consistency has helped make it a longtime favorite for date nights, celebrations, and casual dinners alike.

Situated along downtown Durham’s active dining corridor, Pizzeria Toro reflects the creative and community-focused spirit that continues to shape the city’s food scene.

📍 105 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701