

“Throughout this process our team explored the balance between being real estate professionals and local insiders.”
— Jim Allen, President
The Jim Allen Group
“Throughout this process our team explored the balance between being real estate professionals and local insiders.”
— Jim Allen, President
The Jim Allen Group
Welcome to the inaugural issue of JAG Insider: Become Local!
Since founding The Jim Allen Group in Raleigh, NC, over 20 years ago, my team and I have had the opportunity to be an integral part of the area’s growth and development. We’re a nationally recognized and award-winning real estate team in Raleigh, NC, built on one simple truth: Our customers are our #1 priority. We have an incredible staff that supports our team of agents seven days a week. The Jim Allen Group is unique in that we have our own in-house listings and closings departments, in-house marketing department, new homes sales director, and a property coordinator. We provide you with comprehensive, dedicated, expert assistance at every step of your journey.
With the diverse lifestyles and cultures,
beautiful scenery, and vibrant social scene, it’s really no secret why people relocate to the Triangle area every day. With this in mind, we were inspired to create and publish the JAG Insider, a guide for relocating to the Triangle area that provides insights into the true, local lifestyle with guidance from the leading real estate team in the area. Get to know local faces, the newest home communities, JAG, and so much more!
To kick off this new adventure, we wanted to show the Triangle area through a local lens. Best food spots, hot locations, mustdos, you name it, we are on it! Whether you’re from out of state and moving for a new career, or want a change of scenery, JAG Insider: Become Local will have you seeing the Triangle area through the eyes of a local.
Enjoy a brief introduction to the epic Triangle area and why it’s thriving.
Planning a visit or relocating? Read about some of the highlights of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
Meet some of our favorite locals — JAG team members and area experts.
Find out what makes Wake Forest, North Carolina such a cool, coveted community.
We asked a relocation expert for some tips and why the Triangle is North Carolina’s relocation destination.
Read NC Eat & Play’s recommendations for hot spots around Wake Forest.
Learn what makes The Jim Allen Group an award-winning, unique team and how they’ll work with you on your journey.
Browse our list of featured Wake Forest builders who offer new and custom dream homes.
We’re proud to present you with our network of reputable, innovative builders and crafts people.
Our local real estate experts created a guide for you to get a glimpse of North Carolina neighborhoods and lifestyles.
Explore the areas in and around Wake Forest.
Learn how Acre Homes works with residents and real estate agents to make home buying more accessible, with more options.
What’s the difference between luxury and traditional homes? It’s in the details.
The Jim Allen Group was established in 1983, so we have a special, deep connection to the Triangle area. While our expertise is real estate, we cherish our relationships with the businesses, locals, and visitors. The Triangle area’s roots continue to extend far and wide, reaching people all over the country. In this issue, we thought we’d offer you some insights about the area to help you live like a local.
The Triangle area is made up of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Originally defined by the locations of The University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and North Carolina State University, the region has grown significantly and surrounding towns are now considered part of the Triangle, such as Wake Forest, Zebulon, Cary and Garner, to name a few.
Neighboring areas such as Greensboro and Winston-Salem, to the west, and Fayetteville, to the south, have expanding populations and opportunities. They’re becoming even more connected, thanks to convenient highways, transportation, and rail connections.
The Research Triangle is a Model of Innovation, Collaboration, and Global Game Changers
The Triangle is also home to Research Triangle Park (RTP) — the largest research park in North America stretches over 7,000 acres and is one of the most successful science parks in the world. RTP is a significant economic driver, with over 60,000 diverse employees, more than 375 companies, and counting.
Just some of the major employers of the area include IBM, Bayer, Credit Suisse, and Lenovo, with more on their way. New largescale businesses in fields of finance, manufacturing, technology, and pharmaceuticals continue to recognize the Triangle as a coveted destination, in part due to its innovative reputation.
Hereare just some of the game-changing contributions that have come out of RTP and the Triangle Area:
• 3-D Ultrasound was introduced by researchers at Duke University
• Two RTP scientists received the Nobel Prize for the first drug effective in combating HIV/AIDS
• The UPC barcode was developed by IBM and revolutionized inventory management around the globe
• North Carolina has become a world leader in vaccine research and manufacturing
• Our agricultural biotech industry will play a major role in feeding the world population by 2050
People may come to North Carolina for jobs or education, but they stay for the welcoming atmosphere, endless opportunities and adventures, and the natural beauty that complements any lifestyle.
If you draw a line connecting Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, you’ll get what’s known as the Triangle area. Where would you like to visit first?
RALEIGH The capital city is passionate about its world-class art and nationallyrecognized culinary feats. Raleigh is the destination for music festivals, family-friendly fun, and a lifestyle where the best of everything is at your fingertips. Discover charming homes shaded by historic oaks and a diverse community unlike any other. From education to careers and a thriving social scene, Raleigh is the place to find new opportunities around every corner.
Are you going to be in town or want to plan a trip to see these areas for yourself? We can help! Start the conversation today and we’ll put together a custom list of homes to show you, while giving you a local insider’s look at the lifestyle.
Whether you are interested in learning more about the Triangle area from a local perspective, starting the conversation with a JAG real estate expert, or preparing your home to sell, we have the resources for you to do so.
Home to the Duke University Blue Devils, Durham is a community with vibrant sports and social scenes. It’s an urban industrial city known for its celebrated food experiences, buzzing cultural and shopping areas, and bold, beautiful murals. Spend a day on a relaxing walking tour, then head downtown for an artisanal beverage and award-winning broadway show. There’s an abundance of parks, trails, and greenways that encourage you to explore more and play more.
Discover a historic and close-knit community that embraces all walks of life. Take in the small-town charm of Franklin Street and meander through mom and pop shops, music venues, boutiques, and endless eating options. Chapel Hill takes great pride in their building murals that celebrate the community’s diversity and history. You can enjoy the outdoors nearly all year long so take in the beauty of a botanical garden or take a leisurely stroll on the Riverwalk.
Who better to help you become local than an actual local? The Jim Allen Group real estate experts are actively involved in supporting the community — volunteering at our state parks and animal rescues, playing in pickleball and soccer sports leagues, and joining meetups and events at marketplaces and open mic nights.
Check out how some of our JAG real estate experts take pride in our communities. Come to the Triangle, meet us, find the folks you share a common bond with — and imagine your life here.
"It's hard to describe... saying your a local, and being local to Raleigh means you know what a Smithfields BBQ is."
"I know someone who has lived here for 10 years, but only knows the area around where they live. If you've never seen more than your neighborhood, are you really local?"
"I think being local means you are invested in the area. You have a plan to be here for a long time. You are involved and you experience the area where you live."
BILL SMITH
"Being local means being connected... being connected to people, places, and events. Being connected to your community."
JAMIE MCGUIRE
"You work, live, and play there. I think I'm local to Raleigh because that's where I spend all my time, but I don't consider myself local to Cary."
PHILIP BOWMAN
"It means being from 'North Cackalacky'... You're a southerner. I'm not from Raleigh, I'm from Virginia but I moved here when I was nine, so I would say I'm a local now."
DANA KELLY
"You know the market, you know what's going on around you. You're well informed about what is happening in the area."
KIM MYERS
"Being local means you are familiar with the area you serve. Not just the city, but the surrounding areas too. You know what's going on around you."
RUSSELL ZUCCONE
"You don't need a GPS to get around — you know the area like the back of your hand."
DANIEL HARMON
"Being local means being involved in all aspects of the economy and community where you live. It means having a sense of togetherness, a common identity — it means home."
LOUIS WILKERSON
"Being local, to me, means you've seen things around here with your own eyes. You live or are from Raleigh, but ultimately, what matters is that you KNOW Raleigh."
STEPHANIE BELL
"Being local means living local. You aren't just in the area, you plan on staying there for good."
There really is no place like home. After a hectic day, nothing compares to the comfort of home. Whether you’re looking for a community that’s tranquil or an active, social environment, Wake Forest has it all.
Surrounded by thousands of acres of greenways, golf courses, and tennis courts, there are opportunities for everybody. If you’re into winter sports, head down to West Raleigh to Action Ski & Outdoor Tours. If you prefer the fairer weather, there are over 66 trails that cover 246 miles. Explore some of the best rated walking or biking trails like the Riverwalk Greenway and Caroline North Greenway. The area also boasts dozens of public and private golf courses so you can hit the links and practice your swing. Or, when it’s in season, log some catches from any number of active fishing spots.
What do soccer practice, music lessons, doggie day care, ice hockey, and restaurants have in common? They’re all at The Factory. Stretched over nearly 140,000 square feet, The Factory is home to a dynamic mix of specialty shops, restaurants, sports lessons, and special
events and activities. While the kids are playing laser tag, take a break at Gonza Tacos y Tequila or pick up a birthday gift at Game Theory. There’s truly something for everyone — all under one roof. Meet friends or make new ones at the Friday Night on White festivities. A bustling event since 2016, Friday Night on White offers up a true sense of community. Crowds enjoy live music, indoor/outdoor restaurants, food trucks, and the chance to support local markets and vendors.
If you’re in the mood to explore, there are plenty of other great neighborhoods just outside of Wake Forest, like Rolesville in northeastern Wake County. The second oldest town in Wake County, it’s also one of the fastest-growing. Check out the classic architecture in the historic districts and more modern styles being built in the well-planned neighborhoods. When you live here, you’ll enjoy easy access to the conveniences of the Triangle area’s metropolis, then welcomed home by the small-town charm of Wake Forest and its surrounding areas.
Weasked Nancy for some tips and why she thinks the Triangle is North Carolina’s relocation destination.
About Nancy
Nancy has more than 24 years of experience in the relocation industry, working as a speaker, moderator, and consultant. She got her start nearly 30 years ago while her husband worked as a real estate agent. The division he worked for had a need, and Nancy filled it! Her experience comes with wisdom, advice, and insights on relocation do’s and don’ts.
What are some of the questions people don’t think to ask when they’re relocating?
Most people have a few things on their agenda. They almost always ask about the school systems, neighborhoods, and even area taxes. You’d be surprised that a lot of folks don’t consider commute times. It can sometimes become a lower priority as other factors bump it down the list. But it can be disappointing
to think you’ve found the perfect home only to find out the commute’s going to be an hour each way!
What are some trends you’re noticing as people continue to relocate to the Triangle?
As more people move in, whether it’s to work at one of the great companies like IBM or Fidelity, or to start a family, people are seeming to consider some of the outlying areas like Chatham County. In fact, last year it was one of the fastest growing in the state. Out there, folks have the option of more space, more acreage, if they want it.
What does it mean when we “match” with our JAG real estate expert?
When we have someone who may be unfamiliar with the area, the HPW relocation department will determine their wants and needs, things they require or things they may be willing to compromise on, and assign them the best agent for their
THE AVERAGE PERSON WILL MOVE 11.7 TIMES IN THEIR LIFE.
RENTERS MOVE MORE THAN OWNERS.
needs.. For example, some people are only interested in new construction. JAG has such a diverse team of agents with expertise in any number of areas. No matter how specific their needs or requests are, JAG has experienced professionals that can work to meet those needs. So if you only want to look at new construction, JAG has new construction experts for you. Why relocate with JAG?
As mentioned, JAG has some of the most skilled and diverse agents out there. When they come to work for the JAG team, they receive training on all aspects of the industry. They learn everything from how to work with a buyer, how to work with a seller, how to work with first-time buyers, or investors. Once
RELOCATION, UPSIZING, AND INVESTMENT ARE KEY DRIVERS FOR HOME BUYING.
they get that robust training, they can go into specialized areas like working with experienced buyers or C-Suite customers. It’s a dedicated team in every sense of the word. They’re attentive every step of the way.
Any other takeaways?
The influx of relocation through the years has made this area a vibrant, culturally diverse, and really fun place to live. More new companies keep coming in because they see how viable the Triangle area is. New advantages have surfaced, new opportunities, and the talent pool is second to none. Now these companies can hire locally!
Wespoke with the founder and content creator of NC Eat & Play, Megan Nichols, about what excites her around her hometown, Wake Forest. What started out as a hobby to encourage her family to get out to eat and play, became the full-fledged media brand. Megan likes to promote small and local businesses and encourage others to participate in community events and activities. Here are some of her Springtime favorites.
Mark your calendars because Friday Night on White starts on April 12 and goes through September. It’s “the thing to do” in Wake Forest, and for good reason. Folks come out for the fresh air, new and familiar faces, and a bevy of food trucks. Grab a soda or adult beverage and dance off your food truck indulgences at the live music stage. You’re sure to leave with a smile and a lot of selfies.
Support your community growers, vendors, and artisans at the Wake Forest Farmers Market every Saturday from 10am-12pm. Two hours may not be enough when you see all that the market has to offer. In addition to the freshest produce, vendors offer local honey, homemade soaps, handmade woodwork, fresh BBQ, and mouth-watering cakes and pastries.
Megan Nichols serves as Founder and Editor-At-Large for NC Eat & Play
For the last four years, she’s been a chief curator and influencer for North Carolinians, where everzy day, the NC Eat & Play team highlights and celebrates local businesses and establishments in North Carolina.
Follow Megan on Instagram: @nceatandplay
Zinc House Winery & Brewery
Nestled on 87 acres of rolling green hills sits the Triangle’s latest premier destination. Zinc House Winery & Brewery offers over 400 varieties of wine, local craft beers, and a unique selection of bourbon and cigars (a coffee bar is coming soon). Sit on one of the romantic verandas or around one of the firepits and take in all the beauty. Or shake it up to live music at the Pavilion next door. Check their calendar for a listing of their music events, food trucks, and festivals.
Heritage Donuts
Treat yourself and support the locals. Heritage Donuts is a mom and pop donut shop that specializes in a variety of traditional, cake, and old fashioned donuts that are made fresh daily. They’ve been nominated for Wake Weekly’s Best Bakery of 2023. Word has it that their classic glaze is melt-inyour-mouth heaven. Other flavors include s’mores, cinnamon twists, oreo, cereal, and blueberry cake donuts.
Truly one of Wake Forest area's outdoor gems. Horseshoe Farm sits on 146 acres carved out on three sides by the Neuse River. The Farm boasts an abundance of breathtaking trails, large open fields (perfect for flying a kite), a stunning restored farmhouse, and events such as art classes, Friday Night Family Soccer, and seasonal events like Easter egg hunts and St. Patrick’s Day craft making. Put a leash on Fido, pack a picnic, and enjoy a day of natural beauty.
On the days that ease into Summer, you can take the family and enjoy the mild temperatures at E. Carroll Joyner Park. Enjoy the gardens with curated flora, fishing ponds, and the three miles of paved walking trails for skating or cycling. There’s several restored farm buildings to explore and the peaceful pecan grove is ideal for finding a little serenity. Pack a lunch or use one of the provided charcoal grills for a full-fledged BBQ.
At The Jim Allen Group, we’re passionate about listening, finding solutions, guiding you, and being in your corner every step of the way. We give you unique insights — that only local experts can give — to make the best buying or selling decisions. To us, you’re priority #1. We’re your powerhouse of topperforming industry professionals. You’ll never be alone on your real estate journey. And that’s The JAG Advantage. Whether you’re buying or selling you need real-time accurate insights to navigate the dynamic market. From Sanford to Wilson, we have our finger on the pulse of the Triangle area. Since we’re locals who take great pride in our communities, we’ve got the knowledge and experience you need to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our team of over 90 experts is a collective force that includes listing and closing teams, licensed appraisers, an in-house marketing department, real estate attorneys, top-rated lenders, and highly-regarded vendor partners — all at your service. By having our professionals under one, collective roof, you truly get the most cohesive, holistic real estate experience. We work
together to work for you.
At The Jim Allen Group, the client is always first. And it shows. We’re rated:
#1 Real Estate Team in the Triangle since 1996+
#1 Mega Team in North Carolina in 2022*
#1 Coldwell Banker’s Top Selling Mega Real Estate Team in North America**
#1 Coldwell Banker’s Top Team in Units in North America**
No matter where you are on your real estate journey, The Jim Allen Group experts and our highly-regarded vendor partners are here to help.
Call us today at 919-848-9909 Or visit TheJagAdvantage.com
You are our #1 priority. Achieve your real estate goals with a team that shares in your excitement, delivers on our promises, and understands that it’s more than just a home.
Our finger is on the pulse of the Triangle area. We know this market inside and out,and provide you with the most up-to-date information so you have an edge in finding a home that suits your lifestyle.
We deliver the results you deserve.
Our powerhouse team, incredible builder partners, and industry leaders are equipped with the years of experience and know-how you need to achieve your real estate goals.
Whether
you’re looking for a quick move-in home with details selected by design professionals, or wanting a custom home built from the bottom up, Wake Forest has reputable, highly-regarded builders that will meet your style and location needs. See some of our highly regarded builder partners currently building homes in Wake Forest.
Glimpse into the lifestyles you can find throughout the Triangle area with a series of area guides created by our local real estate experts.
Nestled within Research Triangle Park is one of North Carolina’s oldest historic railroad towns. Access an incredible business district, popular shopping centers, and beautiful recreation steps from your front door.
Offering larger plots of land and more privacy, enjoy life on the scenic side of Raleigh. This farming community continues to flourish boasting craft breweries, outdoor recreation, and a fun local art scene.
Find a small-town feel with big-city amenities and have everything within reach. Knightdale offers thriving employment opportunities, access to Wake County Public schools, recreation, and more!
A walkable and bike-friendly downtown area, discover one of the safest, familyfriendly places to call home. Access greenway trails that run throughout the Triangle area and a lifestyle defined by wellness.
Experience the charm of the Raleigh suburbs in Wake Forest, NC. With a thriving downtown district, numerous recreation areas, a highly rated school system, and great healthcare, find the lifestyle perfect for you.
Click Here To Check Out Our Wake Forest Feature Story
Experience small-town charm only 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh. With strong historic roots and a thriving downtown area, Zebulon, NC, offers residents a life of endless opportunity. Tour homes built with more room to grow, and catch a Mudcats baseball game while you’re at it!
Wake Forest, NC | Starting from the $850s
Come home to a community that features spacious wooded homesites and custom home plans built for entertaining, outdoor living, and spending quality time with those you love the most. Just a few minutes from Wake Forest and easily accessible to Raleigh and Durham, explore nearby amenities like recreation areas, campgrounds, and adventure parks.
Learn more
Wake Forest, NC | Starting from the $700s
Located in this timeless location, Stonegate is an exclusive collection of single-family homesites right next to the St. Andrews community amenity center. The walkable neighborhood features nature trails, tennis courts, and a playground. All builders offer high-end finishes and stylish accents like wood flooring, gas fireplaces, and screened porches.
Learn more
Rolesville, NC | Starting from the $300s
Just moments away from downtown Rolesville where you can shop for local produce at the Rolesville Farmers Market and explore nature adventures from scuba diving to hiking. Our twostory townhomes feature upgraded finishes and are nestled in a close-knit community surrounded by nature.
Learn more
Wake Forest, NC | Starting from $1 Million
Move into a home that is full of natural light. Everywhere you look, the floor plans and layouts of the custom homes are designed for you to get the best view out of every window. Relax into premier indoor-outdoor living in an intimate neighborhood made for you.
Learn more
Wake Forest, NC | Starting from the $400s
Welcome to spacious townhome living. Designed with a neighborhood feel, discover a family-friendly community where kids can run and play outside and everyday is filled with something fun to do. The prime location boasts easy access to nearby shopping, dining, and parks and recreation.
Learn more
Wake Forest, NC | Starting from $1.3 Million
Minutes away from the popular Falls Lake Recreation Area, Wexford Reserve is an escape to nature. Focused on bringing family and neighbors together, discover ample community gathering spaces and incredible amenities fit for a day of fun. Come home to a friendly community offering beautiful custom homes.
Learn more
The prospect of buying a home comes with a lot of emotion, commitment, and questions. What if I don’t qualify? What if we need more room to start a family? What if I change jobs? Consider that nearly 30% of American homeowners stay in their homes for less than five years. Consequences — and minds — change. Today’s buyers deserve more options.
The team at Acre saw the need and brought a brilliant solution to market. Acre was created to offer flexibility for buyers who’ll benefit from shorter-term options and who prefer not to be locked into a mortgage. Acre residents experience the ease of renting with the financial upside of owning.
Their unique model is designed for shorter stays, generally three to five years with a fixed monthly payment, that enable the residents to build wealth and a sense of ownership, minus the debt associated with a mortgage. Acre offers options to purchase the home or cash out, so you build on the wealth as you would a mortgage while significantly limiting your downside. Acre works with experienced homeowners, relocators, first-time buyers, entrepreneurs, families, and more.
It’s a smart, modern model that creates opportunities for both residents and real estate agents alike.
Acre’s work with agents is more like a partnership — there’s no change to agent commissions, and Acre handles the transaction and administrative tasks so that agents can focus on their relationships with clients.
We asked co-founder Pete Crawford what his favorite part of the job is and he didn’t hesitate. Pete believes that offering residents a sense of place and a sense of ownership can truly improve the dynamics of communities. That sentiment and sincerity clearly helps fulfill the company’s mission — to empower people with a more flexible and affordable way to own a home.
When you work with a genuine, enthusiastic team like Acre, everybody wins. Sound too good to be true? The team at Acre gets that a lot. Connect with the Durham-based team and see if Acre is a fit for you.
Connect with them and find out for yourself.
Learn more about Acre Call/text: 919.759.5756
30% OF HOMEOWNERS SELL WITHIN 5 YEARS
5% OF THE HOME’S VALUE GETS YOU INTO AN ACRE HOME
100% OF BUY AND SELL COSTS ARE COVERED BY ACRE
You may have heard the term “luxury homes”, but what is the difference between luxury and traditional homes in the real estate market? In short — convenient amenities, stunning details, and elevated designs.
Here are some of the trends and features that you’ll see in highend, luxury homes in the Triangle area.
“Amazon rooms” are a trend that grew out of the pandemic when residents started to rely on online shopping and delivery services at an unprecedented rate. Rooms feature smart technology such as single-door access for delivery drivers and refrigerated vestibules to keep your grocery deliveries fresh until you get home.
Matching appliance packages are increasingly popular in the luxury home experience. Chef’s kitchens, scullery pantries,
under-the-counter refrigerators, and washers and dryers will include iconic brand names such as Wolf and Sub-Zero to match the aesthetic of the home. Most of the appliances also feature the latest in tech such as WiFi, touch screens, temperature control, and more.
No luxury home is complete without barkitecture. Designated spaces for pampered pets are in high demand and include conveniences like dog wash stations, built-in food and water bowls that can be tucked away when not in use, and dedicated refrigerated spaces for special pet food and treats.
Luxury builders will go above and beyond to craft elevated homes that speak to any demand or desire. Read about even more features that make this living experience truly unique.
We hope you enjoyed the first issue of JAG Insider: Become Local as much as we loved sharing it. This is just one more way we’re helping to support communities, locals, and newcomers alike — by offering insider knowledge and expert dedication. Reach out so we can connect you with a personalized, professional experience that helps you sell, buy, or build your dream home!