Your Opinion: Rezoning or Downzoning?

As the population has grown in Raleigh, so have the prices of many of the homes --- but so has the size of homes. This is a nationwide trend - as people have become more affluent, they have desired to indulge in luxurious homes that often have 4 bedrooms or more!

One Wake County group (see N&O article) is raising an eyebrow to the trend and is seeking to limit the number of permissible tear-downs in their neighborhood; or, to allow the teardowns to continue, but the replacement homes would be required to be much smaller than the huge trendy $300,000 to well over $1 million homes that are being built all over the city.

The group's point is well taken. After all, we shouldn't destroy every cute old neighborhood just because we want to build a mansion in the middle of it, should we? Property values have increased, so many argue that it is not worth having to fix up old homes when you can start over (and with something larger).

What do you think? Does rezoning go too far? Many times people who have lived in a home for 50 years suddenly find their property rezoned - much heartache can go into it. On the other hand, sometimes a home has clearly seen better days, so the rezoning can allow a dream home to go onto the land.

Is downzoning a viable option? Does limiting the size of homes on land create better neighborhoods?

In Cary, zoning is a constant hot topic because the town is known for its carefully planning. Right now, Cary residents grapple with the pluses and negatives of urban shopping centers - Fortunately, Cary has not in any way lost its charm.

We at ListWise like to hear your opinions so we can better serve you. Whether you're looking for a McMansion or a quaint southern home, we can help you find the real estate you're looking for. Check out our mortgage payment calculator - you can get an idea of your closing costs before you even step into our store. Our website has featured listings and information local schools, business, and restaurants, as well as information about the different cities and towns we serve.

-Chas Morgenstern