Great City for Investment - 1/4/2007

CHarlotte is a great place to live, work and raise kids.

[Comment on this Posting]

Charlotte is a great place to live if........ - 1/3/2007

I am a 27 year old black female, and I have lived in this area for the majority of my life (if you include my college years). I have been reading a few of the posts about Charlotte, and wanted to offer my own opinion about living in Charlotte. I live in southeast Charlotte, the Ballantyne area, and it has been a wonderful experience for me. I feel safe where I live, and I am surrounded by many very friendly people. This community is comprised mostly of successful, educated, and hard working people of many different ethnic backgrounds. So if someone is thinking of Charlotte as a future place to live, this would be the area where you would want to move to. On the other hand, some people can not afford the upscale living of the Ballantyne area and have to live other places. A great place to live would be in the University area, North Charlotte. This is a great place because this is the area of UNC-Charlotte, and everyone knows that the standard of living will only decrease to a minimum in that area. A general rule of thumb, that may benefit to anyone who moves to any major city, is to always research every possible community. Crime statistics are available for anyone, usually for free or a small nominal fee, or if you are planning on buying, contact your Realtor about obtaining a crime report. The area schools and their profiles are located on www.cms.k12.nc.us. You will also find a map of the school's zone, so you can definitely set your expectations on the type of education that your child receives. I would like to make a comment of the ethnicity of the Charlotte community. There are many different people from different backgrounds and cultures. Of course, you will run into a few of "ignorant" people, however, for the most part, most are willing and accepting. I have heard people say that they see a lot of interracial relationships here, and that is a beautiful thing. Why? Because people who "love" are here, these are people who see beyond the color lines and are able see how people genuinely are. I am happily in one, with a Spanish man (he is LEGAL), and I one day hope to marry him. I think that Charlotte is a nice community to live in, and I have no major issues. So if you are considering moving to Charlotte, please, read this posting and take my advice. And for all those who have negative views of Charlotte, just remember that you get EXACTLY what you put in. Have a wonderful day!

[Comment on this Posting]

Charlotte Climate - 1/3/2007

The weather is Charlotte is probably the best on the East Coast

[Comment on this Posting]

Want to know more.. - 12/21/2006

I am planning to move in to Charlotte by next year but beside my research on internet I would like to have some opinions from the citizens of this city especially Mecklenburg county. Please, if there is anyone who lives there or knows about this county feel free to email me. email: baby.onheaven@yahoo.com

[Comment on this Posting]

WORST TRANSIT SYSTEM I'VE SEEN...AND MORE - 12/19/2006

I MOVED HERE IN JULY 2006 NOT REALLY RESEARCHING THIS CITY LIKE I AM DOING FOR SAN ANTONIO. I WISH I HAD FOUND OUT HOW THIS CITY HAD NOTHING TO OFFER AND SO FORTH. I AM MORE THAN DISAAPOINTED I AM UPSET. WITHOUT A CAR YOU CAN NOT GET OUT TO EXPERIENCE ANYTHING. AND EVEN WITH A CAR THERE IS NOTHING EXCITING AT ALL. I CAME FROM A BIG CITY...CHICAGO AND COMPARED TO THAT CITY THIS CITY WILL HAVE ME MORE LIKE A VISITOR AS I PREPARE TO MOVE OUT BY AUGUST 2007. I LIVED IN ATLANATA NAD THIS CITY CAN'T COME CLOSE TO THAT CITY EITHER.

[Comment on this Posting]

For those seeking information: - 11/14/2006

First let me say how refreshing it is to see so many people trying to get educated and really get to know our fantastic city before making such a big move. I posted previously, and I stated that I was a Broker/REALTOR agent. I actually was defending the city against an obnoxious and uninformed poster that got on my nerves :) I didn't leave any contact information because I thought it might be against policy to solicit on the site. It is not my intention to do so. I was not expecting the overflow of emails I got from information-thirsty people!! So, let me first say that I am VERY happy to help people and can provide them with a wealth of information. However, please remember when asking for this information, these are things that I researched and spent lots of time finding in order to make my services as helpful to my clients as possible. It is not fair to me if I just hand over my hours of hard work to people and then never hear from them again. Why rely on posters that might be uninformed? If you are moving to Charlotte and wish to purchase property, you should ALWAYS have a buyer agent. NC Real Estate law provides protection to buyers in the form of allowing FREE representation by a licensed professional (me) to the buyer (you). We know the contracts, we know the law, and we know the area. So, folks, your best and most reliable bet to find FACTS about Charlotte is to use a professional. And at no charge to you, what have you to lose? If you choose to contact me via email and are asking for my assitance, please realize that I do this for a living and that the information I give is a result of hours of work that I do for my clients. Clients meaning those who have expressed a serious interest in purchasing property and who agree to allow me to represent them (at no charge) IF they buy a home. This does not mean they HAVE to buy a home. I enjoy the emails, but it takes me hours to follow up over email with current clients not to mention the 42 (yes 42) responses I got off this site. Please email me if you need my help and will ALLOW me to help you the whole way. WELCOME TO CHARLOTTE :)

[Comment on this Posting]

I lived in Charlotte since 2000 - 11/5/2006

Charlotte is a fantastic place to move to. There are plenty of jobs, especially for professionals. After all it is the banking capital of the US. The traffic is not too bad for a city (take a trip to Atlanta and you'll see what traffic really is.) The schools are good. The cost of living and housing are low. Finally, as with most cities, there is a rough section, but it is very small, and would be considered a joke compared to Philly or New York. Also it has an international airport, the Panthers, the Bobcats, and Lowes Motor Speedway. Here is what it lacks. Charlotte is boring. It has very little culture. There is practically no music or art scene. What culture this area had, has been basically erased, because the city planners considered it to be too "redneckish". As you can imagine, forcing culture to develop does not work very well, especially in a city made up mainly of bankers. My wife and I are both musicians, so this has been hard for us, and we are looking to move next year to somewhere else (still looking for where). I should add, we both grew up in smaller towns in PA, and Charlotte’s music scene pales in comparison (horrible when comparing towns with a population a twentieth the size). If you like jazz, forget about it,unforutnately it's basically nonexistent here, but it really doesn’t matter what style you’re into. Other parts of the state do not suffer this same problem, like Raleigh and Ashville. Overall, Charlotte is a great place to live and has a lot going for it. It would be a great city for a family, or a safe city for your first move. If you are into music, art, and a night life this is not the place for you. Hope this helps someone.

[Comment on this Posting]

need advice about schools. - 10/27/2006

Hi I am planning on moving to charlotte in next year or so.I learned a lot of info about charlotte on this site.But still have few questions about schools,jobs for IT professionals and medical malpractice in north carolina.any info will be very helpful.thanks.

[Comment on this Posting]

Need info about schools, jobs and malpractice. - 10/26/2006

I am planning to move to charlotte area .I am finishing my residency in indiana and want to practice in charlotte.I hear lot of good things about charlotte.But I got some specific questions.1)what is the malpractice situation for physicians? 2)how is school system.3)what are the job oppertunities for IT sector professionals.thanks to all for this valuable info. ks

[Comment on this Posting]

RE: Charlotte - 10/26/2006

This message is for the Joan poster. Joan, first of all I am a " Male"!Second, the "Blessing or Curse" verbage; is just another way of saying "Success or Failure"! Best regards to anyone looking to relocate to this mecca on the rise! Julian

[Comment on this Posting]

Hello - 10/26/2006

This site has become so interesting lately. I can't wait for the Julian poster to move here and then post again. It has become like a soap opera. Will her experience be blessed or cursed? I do agree the warning poster should move out of East Charlotte, but Charlotte is small so I can't imagine she hasn't seen the whole area. Charlotte used to be boring to me, but it seems some interesting people have moved in. I love it!!!

[Comment on this Posting]

Julian - 10/26/2006

To Janet: Kudos for you! I appreciate your comments, concerning Charlotte; but they are great rhetorical commentary for African American thoughts about where they reside across America. As an educated African American individual, who is considering Charlotte as a place to relocate; I tire of the negative opinions of places which are based on an person's small, insignificant circle. They want to relate their very existence, to what they have become accustomed to; while at the sam time refusing to become open minded and expand their horizon or world! I have heard overall, nothing but positive about Charlotte, NC. No place is perfect, but whatever place you ultimately choose; becomes home. That place which is chosen as your home, is only what you make it to be. Therefore your choice as a relocation destination, along with the decisions you make to begin and live a life there will either "Bless or curse" you! It's all up to you!

[Comment on this Posting]

There is potential - 10/24/2006

Charlotte is segragated for the most part with Whites on one side blacks on the other. Hispanics and Asians sprinkled in here and there. University area is kind of diverse, but mostly white. There is not much to do here unless you like eating. Lots of fast food and restaurants. There is a large black population in Charlotte. There are problems in their communities, but I think it could be better if someone helped them to get ahead. I don't think the other posts was saying there are no good and educated blacks here because there are, but what you see mostly are the poorer blacks. Charlotte is laid out funny with sprawl and lots of new buildings and homes. The public school system is kind of bad you always hear things about it, but I don't know why. Some people dress nice in Charlotte. Mainly the people in Uptown. Charlotte is what you make it. If you want to move here the people aren't all howdy dowdy, but you're welcome to come.

[Comment on this Posting]

Disagree with previous comments titled "I warned y - 10/23/2006

I have lived in Charlotte for 2 years and am a 30-something African American female. I am a professional with a graduate degree and have met many positive, educated, well-rounded people to hang out with. To the 39 year old woman who states Blacks here are living in poverty and don't know how to speak intelligently, perhaps you need to expand your circle and move to another area of town. It's not a Black issue, it's a poverty issue. If you had done your research, you would know that East Charlotte is a less than desirable are of town to live in. The property values are decreasing, public housing is increasing, and the crime rate is rising. However, there are many areas of Charlotte that are diverse and have African Americans and others who are living well and enjoying the best Charlotte has to offer. I agree that there aren't as many social opportunities that are geared towards Blacks... but they DO exist. Plus, who says you must only go to "Black" establishments? I am open to socializing with all races and people of varied backgrounds. However, I also find there is a large community of professional Blacks here. In a recent article of the Charlotte Observer, they talked about how many professional African Americans are attracted to Charlotte because of the city's fast growth and relatively low cost of living. If you are looking for events especially relating to African Americans try getting in touch with the African American Cultural Center or picking up local publications. I also enjoy attending performing arts events (like Alvin Ailey Dance Troop or the Margaret Garner opera presented by Toni Morrison). In addition, there are great sporting events like Panthers and Bobcats games. You can also join the Urban League. There are many opportunities here, but you must be willing to go beyond your small little world and explore the entire city.

[Comment on this Posting]

GREAT CHARLOTTE INFO.!!!!!! - 10/19/2006

This is the first time I've been on this site and I am shocked at what some locals are saying about Charlotte! One guy is paying $1100 a month for rent because he lives Uptown. Well yes, but you can also take that $1100 and have yourself a BRAND NEW 3 bedroom house here! A couple of people mentioned the city was dead after rush hour?!!!!! LOL The Charlotte nightlife is so hopping, they had to put more officers on duty to control the crowds! You don't have go by me, just go to www.lazyday.com and www.carolinanightlife.com which will also prove that this is a great place for singles in which Charlotte was rated among the top cities by Forbes magazine! And as for meeting new people?!!! I've only been here 4 years and have more friends I can handle thanks to www.gosocialclub.com and www.choa.com I pride myself in helping newcomers as much as I can which I'm sure you will notice quickly from my website. You will find a lot more info way beyond real estate on my site, www.BrokerBryan.com

[Comment on this Posting]

Be informed before you move! - 10/14/2006

Charlotte is one of the best places to live based on affordability. I have read some very ugly posts on here, and I think that one needs to remember when moving somewhere that you can't make EVERYONE happy. As a mother, I can honestly say that Charlotte, NC is a wonderful place to live. The city is beautifully landscaped and there are plenty of things to do. There is a major themepark here, the downtown area is very vibrant and upbeat, there is a lot of history,there is a whitewater center that just opened, we have the NASCAR speedway, we are a reasonable distance from mountains OR coastline, there are plenty of things for families witih children to do, and the housing market is so affordable right now! I am a buyers' agent for a real estate company in Charlotte, NC. I am not going to post the company or my phone number or anything because my posting is NOT to solicit for sales. I just feel that when people post such ugly things, the city is not being fairly represented. And if you want someone who can back it up with facts, than I am a very good person to ask. Sure, crime happens. But where does it not? And being a boring city is certainly a matter of opinion. I reccomend that you visit the city before you make that decision. If Charlotte were such a disappointing place to live, I seriously doubt that the housing market would be flourishing right now while the market nationally has dropped. This is one of the very few cities that has not suffered depreciation.

[Comment on this Posting]

I warned you... - 10/10/2006

I am an African American female, 39. This is 10/2006. I have been in Charlotte for six months I moved here from the west coast. If you are white and middle or upper middle class Charlotte is the city for you. The white fixed up areas of town are among some of the most beautiful and safe feeling places I have ever seen though many of the streets here are more narrow than I think they should be and they have highways everywhere. The black area here however located in East Charlotte looks like people left over from slavery. Many of the blacks in this area are thugs, ignorant, don't know how to dress, without jobs because blacks don't open enough companies, rude and hateful. Some of the whites don't want to be bothered with blacks which is their right, but the blacks here are ridiculous. Murders and robberies two and three times a day on the news in the black areas. Uneducated, dumb way of speaking. Many of the buildings where we reside are old, the streets unpaved, parking lots full of potholes. Most of the blacks are not friendly, stand offish, childish and hardly speak especially cashiers at Walmart and drive thru restuarants. There are a few black dominated suburbs, but they come with no back yard or fence, bugs everywhere and more stand offish, rude neighbors. The Hispanic population here does not like black people even the mixed black Hispanics and yes they are here, too. Charlotte is a terrible city for blacks who are about something, but I don't know any city where blacks like the one's I described here are not the majority in our race stanking and messing up the whole world and the black race. So good luck to you in Charlotte and don't move here at all if you have children and can't do home school or afford private school which is about 500.00 a month for a decent one because the public schools in this town Suck. Since a lot of the white teachers don't want to teach black and Hispanic students and many of the black public school teachers don't know how to teach--- period. Most of the teachers and staff dress like they are going to pick potatoes and are rude beyond compare with no concern for educating children they only want a check they do not deserve. I had this city sized up in one day, but after six months I know I am going to have to move on.

[Comment on this Posting]

Boston,MA to Charlotte - 10/5/2006

I'm thinking strongly about relocating to Charlotte this winter. I've heard so many negativethinsg regarding the school system. Could you please tell me where the decent schools and neighborhoods are in Mecklenburg County? Is Huntersville a nice place to live for a young family with children?

[Comment on this Posting]

Charlotte is not perfect, but has alot to offer - 10/1/2006

It is very interesting that so many negative reviews have been posted about every city on this web site [Charlotte, Atlanta, Austin, Portland, etc]. So, here are my two cents- positive and negative. Having moved here from Jackson, MS about 5 months ago, I can honestly say that Charlotte offers more in terms of job opportunities and culture than Jackson ever could. In terms of southern cities, Charlotte is definitely in the top 10. I am sure that this depends on where in Charlotte you live, so I cannot speak for everyone- I live in Plaza Midwood and absolutely love it [great neighbors- the best actually, good bars/restaurants, a true "walking" neighborhood]. Pros include: a beautiful and clean downtown area which actually has a pulse [relative to Jackson at least]; great restaurants; very good shopping [SouthPark mall is one of the better malls I have been to]; beautiful intown neighborhoods [Fourth Ward, Dilworth, South End, Elizabeth, Plaza Midwood, Chantilly]; proximity to the mountains [2 hours away] or beach [3 hours away]; nice people [not small town nice, but pleasant and helpful nonetheless]; good climate [summers can be hot, but nothing like MS]; and growth opportunity galore. I really predict that Charlotte will be the next Atlanta in the next 20 years, which could be good or bad. Negatives include: traffic [especially in the Lake Norman and South Charlotte areas]; somewhat conservative and homogenous population [yet not nearly as conservative as Jackson, MS]; radio stations and the music scene in general leave much to be desired [lots of top 40 crappola, but no indie music scene to speak of- this seems to be changing however]; suburban sprawl [as with any southern city that is actually growing]; can be difficult to make new friends, at first [the longer you are here, the easier it gets]; and, crime is on the rise [but it is still a relatively safe city- I have had no problems whatsoever]. Overall, I would recommend moving to Charlotte if you are in a smaller southern or northern city. I am not sure if those who live in a larger city would find alot to do here, but the options are increasing as the city grows. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate living in Charlotte as an "8." It could be better [and probably will be as it grows], but it could be much worse as well.

[Comment on this Posting]

This place seems rather boring doesn't it? - 9/27/2006

Charlotte is a beautiful place, near the Smokey Mountains, kinda near Charleston, SC and the ocean... The problem is that Charlotte is very boring. The city has almost no vibe or personality. When we lived there we called it, fast food city. Seems almost every fast food franchise is here, but where are the cool restaurants? Dining out? Then how about Olive Garden? Downtown might as well be a Hollywood prop, cause nothin' is actually goin' on there. People just work in buildings downtown, at night it is OVER! Yawn, Atlanta would be much better.

[Comment on this Posting]