Starting the Year with Gratitude—and Giving Back
Reflecting on 2025 reminds me how powerful local giving can be. Supporting organizations that strengthen our community—in many different ways—is a tradition I’m proud to carry into the year ahead.
Reflecting on 2025 reminds me how powerful local giving can be. Supporting organizations that strengthen our community—in many different ways—is a tradition I’m proud to carry into the year ahead.
Every year, instead of sending out traditional Christmas cards, I like to do something a little different. As a local REALTOR®, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many generous people and learning about the charities that matter most to them. A few years back, I started a tradition: skipping the cards and donating to a nonprofit you help me choose.
Over the years, we’ve been able to support some incredible organizations together—groups like Note in the Pocket, Ducks Unlimited, Wounded Warrior Project, All-In to Fight Cancer, Green Chair Project, The V Foundation for Cancer Research, Samaritan’s Purse, and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of Wake County.
Now, I need your help to choose this year’s recipient.
Instead of mailing Christmas cards, I’ll be making a donation to one charity that YOU help choose.
Here’s how you can be part of it:
You’ll have until Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, to send in your suggestion. I’ll announce the selected charity—and make the donation—in early January to kick off the new year on a giving note.
This tradition has become one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. It’s a reminder that our community is full of people who care deeply and show up for others in big and small ways.
Thank you, as always, for your trust, your support, and your thoughtful recommendations. I can’t wait to see which organizations you introduce me to this year.
Happy holidays, and here’s to another season of giving back—together.
It’s that ham-tastic time of year again!
I’m thrilled to team up with my amazing friends and teammates Annie and Rick Meadows for our annual Ham Jam Giveaway—our favorite (and tastiest) holiday tradition.
Every year, those long lines at local Honey Baked Ham stores remind us that holiday hosting can be stressful—so we’re easing the pain by picking up the tab on ham! We’re sharing a little holiday magic and a lot of deliciousness.
🎁 Two lucky winners will each receive a $50 gift card to help make their holiday hosting a little easier (and a lot tastier).
The giveaway kicks off Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, and runs through midnight on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or just treating yourself to the world’s best leftovers, we hope this brings a little extra joy (and ham!) to your holiday season. Enter for your chance to win by filling out the form below. Let’s ham it up for the holidays together!
Halloween season is here—and while most scares in Raleigh come from haunted trails and ghost tours, anyone who’s toured enough homes knows the real chills can happen during an inspection or showing. From flickering basement lights to mystery noises in the attic, sometimes it’s hard to tell if a house is haunted… or just in need of a little TLC.
As a Raleigh real estate agent, I’ve seen my share of “haunted house” moments that turned out to be nothing more than creaky craftsmanship or a forgotten motion light. So before you grab the sage or call Ghostbusters, here’s how to tell when your potential dream home is just giving you Halloween vibes—not hauntings.

Spooky Version: The ghosts are trying to make contact.
Reality Check: Raleigh’s older neighborhoods—like Five Points or Mordecai—often have original wiring that’s due for an update. A quick electrical inspection usually solves the mystery (no exorcism required).
Spooky Version: A spirit passing through.
Reality Check: Drafty windows or poor insulation. If you’re feeling chills in that 1960s ranch, it might be time for new weather stripping, not holy water.
Spooky Version: Clearly haunted.
Reality Check: Raleigh’s shifting clay soil can subtly warp door frames over time. A few hinge adjustments or a handyman visit should send that “ghost” packing.

Spooky Version: The previous owner never really left.
Reality Check: Probably a squirrel, raccoon… or two. Fall is nesting season, and a quick check with a pest control pro will banish those attic invaders faster than you can say “boo.”
Spooky Version: The portal to another dimension.
Reality Check: You just need better lighting. Adding new fixtures or opening up a wall can turn a gloomy space into a bright, inviting one—perfect for when you host next year’s Halloween party.
Whether you’re house-hunting in North Hills, Downtown Raleigh, or Five Points and beyond, Raleigh’s market doesn’t have to feel like a haunted maze. A little professional guidance makes all the difference.
As your ITB REALTOR®, I can help you spot the difference between a true red flag and a harmless quirk—and maybe even find a house with just the right spirit.
Ready to find a home that’s more “sweet treat” than trick?
Let’s talk—I’ll help you find a place in the Triangle that’s charming, not chilling. 📲 Contact me at 919-438-0548 or Ryan@HudsonResidential.com.
As the new school year approaches, getting your home organized can make mornings less hectic and homework time more productive. With a few strategic setups—like mudrooms, homework stations, and smart decluttering tips—you can start the year off on the right foot.
Where in the world is Ryan Boone Real Estate? From Cabo to concerts, baby showers to BBQs, and even Sunday service—my koozies and cups have been just about everywhere!
Instead of sending traditional Christmas cards, I’ll be making a donation to western North Carolina…
So you bought your first home… now what? Here are some essential tips to get your home fall and winter-ready.