Anyone around in the ’80s may remember a rumpled-trench-coated dog whose business it was to remind us that crime is everyone’s business—and that police can’t fight crime alone. Now, with the marked decline in Downtown crime as the result of a vast community effort, McGruff’s message is more prescient than ever.
In November, we reported DTR crime had increased 60% over the previous eight months as compared to the year prior. Now, incidents running the gamut from aggravated assault to lesser (albeit annoying) evils like harassing phone calls, are improving across many categories. From September to February, drug violations—which accounted for a whopping 30% of all crimes reported—saw a steady decline, ultimately down 55% over the six-month span.
Thanks to extensive unified community efforts, weapons violations also declined a mammoth 73%. And, ultimately, total February crime incidents were almost half of those in September Downtown—including in the “disorderly” dubbed Glenwood South District, where RPD has been focusing much of its enforcement and prevention efforts.
While RPD’s response has been swift and effective, the department credits business and residential partners with whom they work closely for the cooling crime. “Our numbers continue to trend in the right direction thanks to the partnerships made with Downtown Raleigh Alliance and others,” maintains RPD Public Information Officer Lt. Jason Borneo.
For its part, DRA worked to provide private security services, as well as advocate for increased RPD presence and for the City to hire private security in the transit center, says DRA President and CEO Bill King. “All of these efforts have had a meaningful impact as evidenced by the crime data,” he adds. “Having said that, we cannot take our foot off the gas or let the City do so, as there is still a lot of work to be done to fortify these improvements in safety and make even more.”
RPD also worked with local businesses to roll out the CONNECTRALEIGH public safety program in an effort to enable Raleighites to help protect the community by increasing real-time data for guided emergency responses via fususCORE cameras.
Ultimately, Downtown safety is the most vital element to keep businesses progressing—which is why many local owners are happy to be involved in the conversation and efforts, including owner Matt Coleman of popular Blount Street bar The Davie.
“RPD has made tremendous efforts to help solve the growing issue of crime in the Fayetteville Street/Moore Square District after hearing our concerns last September,” says Coleman. “The numbers definitely show a decrease in crime, and we are seeing an increased police presence since then. My only hope is [RPD] continues to apply pressure, as crime tends to escalate during warmer weather, and summer is rapidly approaching.”
Borneo agrees, but ensures RPD is ready. “As the warmer months approach, we anticipate changes in crime trends,” he says. “RPD is always prepared to respond regardless of season—and we are prepared to respond accordingly to those trends. … We rely on our community to actively contribute to public safety, and we are fortunate that so many people have embraced the ‘it takes a village’ approach.”
Fortune no doubt favors the brave—and these efforts are no doubt valiant—but we can’t rest on our laurels. There is still work to be done, and we have to remain diligent and keep our communal foot on the gas. We’ll circle back after the thaw with what we hope is more good news for DTR.
Madre team opening new bar, Neighborhood, at Smoky Hollow June 28.
“Madre is sexy. This one is cozy”… And exactly what this area has been missing—until now. Bringing another fire concept to the burgeoning Smoky Hollow district, the trio behind Madre is adding Neighborhood, a “good time bar” to their roster.
Already deeply familiar with hip Hollow hangs from their always-packed perch, the masterminds behind Madre see the, ahem, neighborhood watering hole as an opportunity to fill that void—and really hone in on the casual bar the area, and Raleigh, so desperately needs. And, in so doing, really attracting and catering to that 30- and-up demo (vinyl and wine nights, anyone?). Read: All ages are welcome—but if you’re 35 or 45 or 65+ or feeling aged out by Glenwood South, this is also with you in mind.
Sliding into and leveling up the space first occupied by New Anthem, the bar, like sister concept Madre, was intentionally reenvisioned by Master Lead Designer Bryan Costello. So you know it’s gonna be a vibe.
“We’re going for upbeat yet relaxed,” says co-owner Tyler Helikson, “similar to what we’ve seen at some of our favorite spots in East Austin and Brooklyn.” Think music, plants, art, cards, games and even game day (hey, new TVs)… the kind of place you post up for a day-hang with your people or your pet bestie, solo, or with old friends or ones you just met—because naturally it’ll be a space for serendipitous friendmaking.
Of course, what’s a bar without spirits? Think frosty beers, crispy wine, well-crafted spins on your fave ’tails straight from the tap (if you’ve sipped at Madre, then you know these folks know spirits). And honing in on its chill hangout MO, there’s no fuss over food here (though, yes, there will be snacks—and Smoky Hollow’s tasty tenants at the ready to sate your appetite to boot). But, most importantly, it’s just a hip neighborhood bar concept from folks known for bringing good to life where you can roll up to for any reason or no reason at all. We’ll see you there.
A recent raise got everyone talking about how our local government works—and why they earn what they do.
Few things have caused a stir in Raleigh quite like the announcement of the city manager’s pay raise at a December City Council meeting. The second-consecutive 10% pay increase raising Marchell Adams-David’s annual salary to $356,375 effective Jan. 1 (up from $323,978) effectively makes her the highest paid city manager in the Triangle—and second only statewide to Charlotte City Manager Marcus Jones.
That substantial raise—and income—has been the talk of the town all winter. Whether in the boardroom or at the bar, the banter was ubiquitous… sparking the repeated question: Why?
Pictured left: City Council; Pictured right: Marchell Adams-David
Why such a high salary?
Essentially, the City of Raleigh is the organization, and the Office of the City Manager is the administrative center, with the city manager at the helm. Thus, Adams-David executes and oversees the day-to-day operations of city government—think hirings, budget and beyond. In addition to coordinating and overseeing all City Department undertakings, supervising ~4,000 full-time city employees across those 20 departments, and proposing the city’s annual $1.3 billion budget to City Council, she serves as direct staff support for the mayor, City Council and committees, and as director of Raleigh’s future plans.
What does City Manager Adams-David do?
In short, Marchell Adams-David, who was appointed after serving ~6 1/2 years as assistant city manager, oversees a city of 472,540. Beyond her responsibilities to Raleigh’s nearly half-million population, her direct reports include four deputy/assistant managers who assist in research, public policy proposals, public program evaluation and direction of City Council, as well as a chief of administrative services, a chief of council services and, if approved in the budget, a new community relations analyst.
Why do city managers earn more than mayor/city council?
In North Carolina, according to the NC League of Municipalities, as dictated by General Charter, most municipalities—including Raleigh—are run in the form of council-manager, meaning the city manager is the chief policymaker, with city councils acting as the legislative body.
The city manager is thus the chief executive—similar to mayors in other major metropolitan areas, with one major caveat. She isn’t elected. Instead, the city manager is appointed as an administrator to implement the policies of the mayor-council, and execute and oversee the day-to-day operations of city government—think hirings, budget and beyond.
What does the mayor make?
According to the City of Raleigh, Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin earns an annual base income of $37,606 per the current adopted budget (FY23), up from a former $24,550 base. Implemented in December 2002, the boost was in accordance with a pay plan recommended by a September 2021 community study group as part of a concerted effort to increase mayor and council pay to full-time-worthy living wages.
The mayor pro-tem earns $33,203 and councilmembers $30,743, the latter up from an $18,021 base. As a point of note, these base salaries exclude additional compensation for car, technology, educational courses and other expenses. Insurance is also paid on their behalf.
According to the budget highlights in the FY24 Proposed Budget, “the City Council’s adopted budget includes personnel increases ($88,825) based on the new pay plan that was adopted by Council during the FY23 budget process,” as well as “benefit adjustments ($9,533) that account for increases in health care.”
City Manager Salaries
City Manager: $356,375 Deputy City Manager: $243,248 Asst. City Manager: $208,684 Asst. City Manager: $206,679 Asst. City Manager: $188,100
While “hottest ZIP code” is relatively subjective by industry standard, local experts weigh in on the top zip codes they see people gravitating toward in Raleigh and Wake County.
Trending Raleigh Zip Codes
27608 | avg. home price $937,950 |154 homes sold in past 12 months | avg. days on market 28 | sales to list price 98% “Inside the Beltline…need I say more? Home of the most expensive Wake County home sold in the past 12 months (per TMLS), the ZIP appeals with walkability, a sense of community, neighborhoods rich in character and unique flair. Nearly half the homes sold in the past year eclipsed $1 million.” —Renee Smith
“Claiming the top spot for the most expensive ZIP code in Raleigh in 2023, includes classic ITB neighborhoods like Hayes Barton, Five Points and Hi Mount. Attracts buyers looking for old Raleigh charm and convenience to Downtown, Midtown and commuting in and out of Raleigh.” —Sarah Hunter
27612 | avg. home price $693,113 | avg. days on market 23 | sales to list price 98% “Central location offers easy access to most of Raleigh, as well as RTP, RDU, Downtown and North Raleigh. Established neighborhoods mixed in with new construction and renovated classic homes—with prices ranging from the mid $300s to over 1 million—serve up a good mix of homes for all types of buyers.” —Sarah Hunter
27607 | avg. home price ~$400K “Popular for its proximity to NCSU and DTR, a sought-after location for both students and young professionals.” —Shawn Britt
27615 | avg. home price $694,377 | avg. days on market 22 | sales to list price 98% “This quintessential North Raleigh ZIP includes the desirable neighborhoods of North Ridge, Thorpshire Farm and Harps Mill. Buyers like the tree-lined streets and charm in these neighborhoods with easy access to 540, 440 and I-40 for commuting.” —Sarah Hunter
27609 | avg. home price $729,601 | 405 homes sold in past 12 months “Midtown Raleigh… evolving North Hills… our local Northern Lights! This hot spot is the focus of Midtown.” —Renee Smith
27610 | avg. home price $385,419 | avg. days on market 14 | sales to list price 99% “A hot spot for investors, first-time buyers and those looking to revitalize the southeast corner of Downtown and Raleigh, home prices here range from $160,000 to over $560,000 via an ever-changing mix of housing options and dynamic in this area. As values continue to climb in this ZIP, current listings include 9 homes #600-900K.” —Sarah Hunter
27613 | avg. home price ~$375,000 “Popular for its scenic neighborhoods, ample green spaces and proximity to recreational amenities like Umstead Park.” —Shawn Britt
Trending Wake County ZIP Codes Outside Raleigh City Limits
27519 | avg. home price $522,779 | 669 homes sold in past 12 months “Hello Cary! Hot for desirable schools and a quicker commute to RTP.” —Renee Smith
27587 | avg. home price $338,083 | 1,436 homes sold in past 12 months “Wake Forest is up and coming, with the most homes sold in the past 12 months—plus offering less congestion than some other hot ZIP codes, more affordability and space, and breweries are brewing.” —Renee Smith
27540 | avg. home price $471,893 | 786 homes sold in past 12 months “Home to Holly Springs—thriving and a bit more affordable; new businesses moving in.” —Renee Smith
27513 | avg. home price ~$350,000 “Known for its excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods, it’s a top choice for families looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to RTP.” —Shawn Britt
27511 | avg. home price ~$325,000 “Attracting buyers for its central location in Cary, excellent schools and vibrant downtown shops and restaurants.” —Shawn Britt
27526 | avg. home price ~$300,000 “Gaining popularity for its affordability and sense of community, Fuquay-Varina offers a charming small-town atmosphere that’s close to Raleigh and RTP for work opportunities.” —Shawn Britt
Hot Take: Gender Gap Who rule the world—er, real estate market? Women. While women couldn’t even get a mortgage or a credit card without a male cosign until 1974 (sit on that fact for a second…), single females now outpace single men in NC property ownership 14% to 9% per current Census data. While women’s weekly earnings still lag, the growing gender gap for single homeownership skews female—with NC ranking No. 6 in states with the widest gender gap.
Pro tip: Falling rates is likely to fuel demand and drive up prices. Experts say now is the time for smart buyers to start shopping.
Market Outlook—According to Resident Experts
“2024 should have a fairly positive outlook. Both buyers and sellers will adjust to the reality of interest rates and that the median home price has remained relatively flat (a slight decrease from Jan ’23 compared to Jan ’24). With both sides having a more realistic view of what the market looks like now, they’ll both adjust expectations and 2024 will certainly be another year of growth in the Triangle.” —Sarah Hunter, Broker/Realtor, City to Coast Realty
“Our local real estate market has shown an unusually early surge this year. There has been a noticeable increase in home showings and a resurgence of buyers. … Additionally, the Triangle region continues to attract hundreds of new residents daily, setting the stage for a projected 4% growth in the housing market for 2024. —Shawn Britt, Broker/Owner, Realty World Triangle Living
“Sellers remain in an advantageous position with significant home appreciation over the past few years, and home equity is strong! A lot of opportunity exists on both sides of the transaction—whether buying or selling. It’s a great time for potential sellers to take advantage of their high equity position, and buyers are feeling more settled and accepting of rates! —Renee Smith, Managing Broker, Compass Raleigh Midtown; Managing Director, Compass Carolinas | Compass Real Estate
“The potential for Fed interest rate cuts later this year could further boost the market by possibly lowering mortgage rates and bolstering buyer confidence. However, key challenges remain tight supply and affordability constraints due to limited used home inventory. Balancing this demand with adequate supply will be crucial for a truly thriving housing market in the Triangle.” —James Flanagan, Vice President of Community Experience, Tri Pointe Homes Raleigh
Relocating buyers from other states amounts to ~23% of our buyer population
Trend Report
12 trends to expect in Raleigh real estate in 2024 according to local experts
⬆️Buyer Demand “As interest rates fall from a 2023 high and the hype of inflation settles a bit, buyers who held back in the latter part of last year are back in full force!” —Renee Smith, Managing Broker, Compass Raleigh Midtown; Managing Director, Compass Carolinas | Compass Real Estate
Continued Market Stabilization “After a period of price appreciation and limited inventory, 2024 should see some stabilization. Mortgage rates are expected to remain somewhat elevated, but we anticipate a leveling in Q2/Q3.” —James Flanagan, Vice President of Community Experience, Tri Pointe Homes Raleigh
Making Moves “Interest rates will probably not go back to the 2–3% days, and buyers and sellers are starting to adjust their mindsets to the current conditions. We’re seeing more buyers and sellers start to make moves instead of sitting and waiting for rates to drop.” —Sarah Hunter, Broker/Realtor, City to Coast Realty
⬆️Housing Prices “Low inventory levels and high demand will likely contribute to a competitive market, making it more challenging for first-time homebuyers.” —Shawn Britt, Broker/Owner, Realty World Triangle Living
⬆️Multiple Offers “The return of multiple offers on hot properties—aka homes that are priced right, in best locations and don’t need many updates. We’ll see more of this as interest rates fluctuate too.” —Sarah Hunter
Affordability Focus “With affordability continuing to be a concern, homebuilders may shift toward smaller, more efficient homes—and even possibly attached products that can cater to first-time buyers and budget-conscious consumers.” —James Flanagan
⬆️Move-In Ready Demand “Buyers looking for move-in ready homes where updates have already been made—or new construction—to avoid renovations.” —Sarah Hunter
⬆️ Seller $hellout “The return of repair requests and seller paid closing costs: as the market changes and sellers need to sell, we may see more willing to give up money for repairs or closing costs to keep buyers under contract and close the sale.” —Sarah Hunter
Stress on Sustainability “As environmental concerns become more prominent, homebuyers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly features and energy-saving technologies—and, just as importantly, quality over quantity.” —Shawn Britt
Transplant Takeover “NC—and specifically the Triangle—is a highly desirable destination and many buyers are flocking here for our great economy, highly educated population, incredible lifestyle, comfortable weather, and proximal beaches and mountains!” —Renee Smith
Live/Work/Play “With consumers continuing to prioritize outdoor spaces and community experiences, developers are focusing on building homes in walkable neighborhoods with access to parks and green spaces, as well as amenities like pools, fitness centers and more. This trend could also lead to the development of mixed-use communities combining homes with retail, office space and entertainment options.” —James Flanagan
Tech Effect “An influx of tech-related jobs will likely influence the demand for housing and commercial real estate in the area.—Shawn Britt
$78,631 Median household income for City of Raleigh
2.2 months Active inventory—a stable market typically includes a six-month supply.
