• 🏡 Cary North Carolina Townhome Tour: 615 Samuel Cary Drive

    If you have been searching for a home in Cary that combines space, convenience, and charm, this new listing might be the one.

    Hi, I’m Pearl Tucker, REALTOR® with Anna Powell Real Estate / eXp Realty, and I’m excited to share a closer look at 615 Samuel Cary Drive, a beautiful tri-level townhome located right in the heart of Cary, North Carolina.

    Spacious Living in a Prime Cary Location

    This three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home offers more than 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. The first floor features a large suite with its own full bath, perfect for guests, extended family, or a quiet home office. The main living area on the second floor feels open and welcoming with durable LVP flooring, natural light, and an easy flow between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces.

    Step outside to enjoy multiple outdoor areas including a covered front balcony, a rear deck overlooking a wooded buffer, and a shaded patio below. These spaces are ideal for morning coffee or unwinding in the evening.

    Upstairs, you’ll find two more bedrooms, each with its own private bath. The current primary suite features a spacious bathroom with dual sinks and plenty of storage.

    Recent updates include a new HVAC system installed in August 2025 and a roof replaced about three years ago. There’s also a one-car garage, driveway parking, and a renter-friendly HOA for added flexibility.


    Why Cary

    615 Samuel Cary Drive sits between I-40 and I-540, giving you quick access to Raleigh, Durham, and RDU International Airport, all within 15 minutes. It’s also just blocks from Downtown Cary Park and the restaurants, shops, and community spaces that make Cary such a wonderful place to call home.

    Cary is known for its beautiful parks, international supermarkets, golf courses, and local events. It’s also home to Epic Games headquarters, WakeMed Soccer Park, and both the NC Courage women’s soccer team and NCFC men’s soccer club. Whether you’re new to the area or already a local, you’ll find that Cary offers a great mix of convenience, comfort, and community.


    Take the Full Tour

    You can watch the full walkthrough of 615 Samuel Cary Drive on my YouTube channel here:
    👉 Watch the video tour on YouTube

    If you’d like to schedule a private showing or learn more about homes in Cary, I’d love to help you.


    Pearl Tucker, REALTOR®
    Anna Powell Real Estate | eXp Realty

     Contact Me:
     [email protected]
     910-537-6304
     PearlTucker.com

  • 🚗 Follow the Growth: Why 540 Could Be the Triangle’s Next Real Estate Goldmine

    If you’ve lived in or around the Triangle for any amount of time, you’ve probably noticed how fast everything is growing. New neighborhoods, road expansions, and more families are moving here than ever before.

    One of the biggest drivers behind that growth is the 540 expansion.

    In my newest YouTube video, I take you on a short but eye-opening drive through the Wilson’s Mills and Johnston County area to show you exactly what’s happening along the 540 corridor and why smart buyers and investors are already paying close attention.

    🌳 A Quiet Area on the Verge of Big Change

    What was once quiet farmland is quickly becoming one of the Triangle’s most promising zones for new development. With 540 connecting Clayton, Smithfield, and beyond, travel times to Raleigh and RTP are shrinking, and that’s a game changer for families who want more space without giving up convenience.

    As new neighborhoods, coffee shops, and schools pop up along the route, it’s becoming clear that this isn’t just suburban growth. It’s a long-term shift in where people want to live and work.

    💡 Why This Matters for Buyers and Sellers

    If you’re thinking about buying land or a home in Johnston County, now’s the time to pay attention. Prices are still reasonable compared to Wake County, but as access improves and businesses move in, that window of opportunity is starting to narrow.

    For homeowners, this could mean an exciting rise in property values, especially if you’re near future interchanges or new subdivisions.

    👉 Watch the video on YouTube

    In the video, I break down where the growth is happening, what to look out for, and how it could impact both buyers and sellers over the next few years.

    🏡 Let’s Talk Strategy

    Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, invest in land, or simply stay informed about your neighborhood, understanding local growth patterns is key.

    If you’d like to talk about what this means for your property or your next move, send me a message. I’d love to help you make the most of this exciting time in our market.

    Talk soon,

    Pearl Tucker, REALTOR®
    Anna Powell Real Estate | eXp Realty

    📲 Contact Me:
    📧 [email protected]
    📞 910-537-6304
    🌐 PearlTucker.com

  • New Homes in Wilson’s Mills, NC | Crescent Mills by Starlight Homes (Under $400K)

    Hey y’all, Pearl here

    If you’ve been on the hunt for an affordable new home near Raleigh without giving up lifestyle and amenities, I’ve got some good news. Crescent Mills by Starlight Homes in Wilson’s Mills might just check all your boxes. These homes are priced under $400,000 in a market where affordability often feels like a myth.

    Now, I’ll be honest. When we filmed the video tour for this neighborhood, it was one of those rainy North Carolina days. You know, the kind where you regret not packing an umbrella in your car’s emergency kit? But even through the drizzle, the homes and the community stood out beautifully on camera. A huge thank you to Vanessa and the team at Starlight Homes for opening their doors to us and letting us film anyway. Sometimes a little rain just makes the brick look shinier, right?

    Why Wilson’s Mills? Why Crescent Mills?

    So what makes this spot so special? Wilson’s Mills is one of those small towns that’s quietly becoming a big deal. It’s got that laid-back, community feel, but you’re never too far from action.

    Commute perks: Crescent Mills is just off Highway 70. From here, you can hop on I-40 or US-70 and be in downtown Raleigh in about 30 minutes depending on whether your playlist is Beyoncé or bluegrass.

    Nearby towns: You’re about 10 minutes from downtown Smithfield, 12 minutes from Selma, and 15 minutes from Clayton. Whether you’re running errands, grabbing a coffee, or checking out a local brewery, everything’s close enough that you don’t feel stranded.

    Lifestyle amenities: Crescent Mills comes with a clubhouse, pool with a slide, pickleball courts, walking trails, a dog park, picnic areas, and even a fire pit for those cool fall evenings.

    And let’s not forget. Owning a home here doesn’t just mean lifestyle upgrades, it can also mean tax benefits. Homeownership often allows you to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes. For many young professionals and families, that’s a real game changer compared to renting.

    A Peek at the Homes

    Crescent Mills by Starlight Homes offers a variety of floor plans, but during our visit we had the chance to explore two of the most popular.

    The Splendor is a two-story home with about 2,272 square feet. It features four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and an open-concept main floor that feels bright and spacious. It’s a great balance of room to grow with modern design.

    The Supernova is the largest of the floor plans here. At nearly 2,700 square feet, it has five bedrooms and three baths. It’s designed for those who want plenty of space, whether that’s for a home office, guests, or just spreading out.

    Of course, there are also smaller three-bedroom options and cozy single-story layouts, so there’s really something for different needs and lifestyles. The best part is that these are all under $400,000, and Starlight even includes a full appliance package. Washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, oven, and dishwasher are all ready to go, which means you won’t be running to the store the day after closing.

    Why Young Buyers Love It

    I talk to a lot of first-time homebuyers and young professionals who are looking for a shorter commute into Raleigh or RTP but don’t want downtown prices. They want modern features without a custom-build price tag. They want a community feel with places to play pickleball, meet neighbors, and relax. And most of all, they want a home that’s affordable enough to build equity without sacrificing lifestyle.

    Crescent Mills really hits all those points. And if you’re comparing rent versus buy, your money may go further here than paying someone else’s mortgage.

    Final Thoughts

    Rain or shine, Crescent Mills by Starlight Homes in Wilson’s Mills impressed me. It’s affordable, it’s welcoming, and it’s in just the right spot to give you both peace and convenience.

    If you’re even thinking about making a move, whether to Crescent Mills, Clayton, or another Johnston County neighborhood, I’d love to help you explore your options. You can reach me directly through PearlTucker.com and we’ll set up a time to chat.

    Thanks again to Vanessa and Starlight Homes for letting us film in your gorgeous homes even in the rain. The weather might not have cooperated, but the footage turned out beautifully and I think it proves that Crescent Mills shines no matter the forecast.

    Talk soon,
    Pearl Tucker, REALTOR®
    Anna Powell Real Estate | eXp Realty

    📲 Contact Me:
    📧 [email protected]
    📞 910-537-6304
    🌐 PearlTucker.com

  • FSBO vs Realtor: What Sellers Need to Know

    I just released a video on this very topic: FSBO vs Listing Agent in NC. In the video, I break down the key differences and share insights that can help you decide what makes the most sense for your situation. You can watch it here [@PearlTuckerRealtor ].

    Becoming a homeowner was a dream for my husband and me. We believed for years that owning a home was out of reach and continued renting even when opportunities to buy were right in front of us. When we finally learned what it really took to purchase, it was life changing. We saw firsthand how real estate could build generational wealth, just as Jesus taught in his parables about investing. My husband studies the stock market and understood that real estate was one of the most steady growing assets. That journey inspired me to become a Realtor with one goal in mind: to empower families who feel like we once did. I want you to know that homeownership and building future wealth is possible.

    If you are now on the other side of that dream, preparing to sell your home, you have an important decision to make. Should you go For Sale By Owner, also known as FSBO, or work with a professional listing agent? Let’s explore both options.

    The Appeal of FSBO

    Selling your home on your own often sounds appealing because the idea of saving money is powerful. After all, who doesn’t want to keep more of the profit from a home sale? With FSBO, you handle everything directly, from answering phone calls and scheduling showings to responding to buyer messages and coordinating all the moving parts of the transaction.

    For some homeowners this might sound manageable, but the reality can be overwhelming. Your house has to be showing ready at all times. You are also the one responsible for legal paperwork, knowing which forms are required and which are not, coordinating inspections, working with contractors, and handling negotiations. All of this happens while you are working your job, packing to move, and managing life’s daily demands.

    One of the biggest challenges FSBO sellers face is that many buyers and their agents hesitate to work with homes sold directly by the owner. Without guidance, buyers worry that key steps may be missed and this can lead to fewer offers and lower interest in the property.

    The Value of Working with a Realtor

    Working with a Realtor is about more than putting your home in the MLS. It is about having a partner who markets your home professionally, negotiates on your behalf, and helps you focus on your next move rather than the small nuisances that pop up in every transaction. When you hire me, you still call every shot, but my job is to make the process smoother, to reduce your stress, and to help you get to the closing table with confidence.

    I have been awarded the “Deal Closer” award by my team because I know how to navigate even the most difficult situations. I approach every transaction with empathy, hard work, and a commitment to seeing my clients happy at the end. My clients often tell me that I go above and beyond the call of duty. That is because I treat every sale as if it were my own.

    So Which Path is Right for You?

    The truth is, both FSBO and working with a Realtor are options. FSBO might work if you have a buyer already lined up and are confident managing the entire process on your own. But if your goal is to maximize your sale price, protect yourself from mistakes, and reduce the stress of selling, partnering with a Realtor gives you those advantages.

    Selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you will make, and it is worth having someone in your corner who will put heart and soul into the process.

    What next?

    If you are thinking about selling in Smithfield, Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, Raleigh, Garner, or anywhere in Johnston, Wake, Durham, or Harnett County, I would love to be your resource. Feel free to call me directly at +1 (910) 537-6304 and let’s talk about the best way to move forward.

    Thank you for watching my video! Much more is coming! Please subscribe to my YouTube channel to see more educational videos like this!

  • Understanding Due Diligence and Earnest Money in NC

    Hey friends!

    We just dropped a brand new video on our YouTube channel and this one’s all about two deposits that every North Carolina homebuyer needs to understand: Due Diligence and Earnest Money.

    We filmed this video on a beautiful day right here in Smithfield at the Neuse River Amphitheatre, one of our favorite local spots! It’s the same place the town hosts firework shows and all kinds of community events throughout the year. It felt like the perfect backdrop to break down this important (but often confusing) part of the homebuying process.

    In the video, I explain:

    🟡 What is the Due Diligence Deposit?
    🔵 What is the Earnest Money Deposit?
    🟢 Why they matter, how they protect both the buyer and the seller, and how the process works here in North Carolina (because trust me; it’s a little different from other states!).

    Whether you’re thinking of buying your first home, relocating to the Triangle, or just curious about how things work in NC, this video is a must-watch.

    📍I’m based in Smithfield, but I help clients all across Raleigh, Clayton, Johnston County, and beyond. I know how overwhelming it can be when you’re trying to understand all the moving pieces; and my goal is to make it simple and clear.

    💬 Watch it here:

    Need help getting started with your move?
    I’d love to chat! You can reach me at PearlTucker.com or shoot me a message anytime.

    Thanks for being part of this journey with us and stay tuned for more videos, neighborhood highlights, and local guides coming soon!

    With love and gratitude,
    Pearl Tucker
    Your Guide to Life in Raleigh, Clayton, Smithfield & Beyond.

  • Welcome to My Website & YouTube Channel!

    Hey friends! I’m so glad you’re here! Thank you for taking the time to visit my website. Your love, support, and encouragement truly mean the world to me.

    After months of planning, brainstorming, and a whole lot of behind-the-scenes effort, my husband and I are incredibly proud to officially launch both this website and my brand-new YouTube channel! We’ve poured our hearts into getting everything just right; laying the foundation, creating meaningful content, and making sure everything reflects the vision we have for this next chapter.

    Introducing My Very First YouTube Video!


    I’m beyond excited to share my very first video, now live on YouTube! We filmed it over the course of two days, capturing both the beauty of Raleigh real estate and the beginning of my journey as your go-to local guide.

    In this debut video, I take you on a tour of a stunning 3,000 sq. ft. new construction home located at 9000 Penny Road in southwest Raleigh. This gorgeous property sits on a serene, tree-lined street with a full acre of land, offering that rare blend of peaceful living and prime location. You’ll find it tucked between some of the area’s most beloved landmarks, including Historic Yates Mill County Park, Lake Wheeler, Lochmere Golf Club, and Koka Booth Amphitheatre. With its proximity to Cary and growing development around it, this home is nestled in one of the Triangle’s most promising and desirable areas.

    Why This Home, and Why Now?

    While this video highlights a beautiful home, it’s about more than just bricks and square footage. It’s a personal introduction to me, Pearl Tucker, your friendly neighborhood Realtor, proud North Carolina transplant, and resident of the charming town of Downtown Smithfield. I wanted this video to reflect the warmth and sense of community that my family and I are so grateful to be surrounded by every day.

    This first video is also the beginning of what I hope will become a valuable and authentic resource for anyone looking to live, work, or invest in the Raleigh, Clayton, Smithfield, and broader Wake and Johnston County areas.

    What’s Coming Next?

    This is just the start! In future episodes, you can look forward to:

    Touring local favorites—from hidden gem restaurants and cafés to outdoor activities and family-friendly spots

    Diving into real estate trends, home tours, and what it’s really like to move to or live in this vibrant region

    Partnering with local businesses, community leaders, and nonprofits to showcase everything that makes our neighborhoods special

    Offering guidance, insights, and insider tips to help you feel confident whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring

    Everything will be captured on camera and shared with you through my YouTube channel and here on the blog. I want to be your trusted guide and resource; someone you can count on when you think about relocating, settling in, or just learning more about what makes this area such a wonderful place to call home.

    Let’s Stay Connected!

    Thank you again for being here. This journey is just beginning, and I’m so grateful to have you along for the ride. Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, follow me on social media, and check back here regularly for new videos, updates, and community features.

  • Welcome to PearlTucker.com: Your Local Guide to Life & Real Estate in Smithfield, Clayton & Raleigh!

    Hi, I’m Pearl Tucker – REALTOR® with Anna Powell Real Estate and eXp Realty – and I’m thrilled to welcome you to my brand-new online home! This site is more than just a real estate blog; it’s your local guide to everything happening in Smithfield, Clayton, and throughout Wake & Johnston County.

    Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your current one, investing, or just curious about life in the Triangle area, I’m here to help you navigate every step.

    Why This Blog Exists

    This blog is an extension of my YouTube channel @PearlTuckerRealtor, where I give real-world advice and authentic local insights. Now with this site, I’m taking it a step further.

    Here’s what you can expect from my weekly posts:

    ✅ Local market updates and real estate trends
    ✅ Reviews of the best coffee shops, restaurants, and hidden gems
    ✅ Home maintenance tips from my trusted network of contractors and designers
    ✅ Spotlights on amazing homes and neighborhoods
    ✅ Interviews with local business owners and community leaders
    ✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from my real estate journey