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Driving the news: Private jet operator flyExclusive is expanding its footprint in Raleigh, securing a full floor at One North Hills Tower as part of a long-term strategy to grow operations and hire more talent.
Details:
The company has leased space for up to 125 employees in Midtown Raleigh’s newest Class A office building.
Its temporary office opens in February, with the permanent office ready by June.
flyExclusive already employs around 30 people in Raleigh, with plans to expand that headcount rapidly.
The One North Hills Tower is now 100% leased, with flyExclusive and RSM US LLP taking the final 42,000 square feet.
Why it matters: flyExclusive’s move adds momentum to Raleigh’s office market and boosts the city’s role in North Carolina’s aviation sector.
The decision also brings high-quality jobs to Midtown and signals confidence in Raleigh’s growing business talent pool.
The big picture: Though its headquarters and maintenance operations will stay in Kinston — where flyExclusive is investing in new facilities including a 121,000-square-foot hangar and a simulator training center — this Raleigh office marks a strategic shift. It allows flyExclusive to tap into deeper recruiting pools and accelerate collaboration across teams.
Between the lines: While Kinston remains the operations hub, Raleigh is emerging as flyExclusive’s business nerve center, ideal for attracting top-tier professionals who want urban amenities, lifestyle perks, and proximity to innovation centers.
What’s next: Expect continued hiring and more announcements from flyExclusive as it ramps up across both Raleigh and Kinston in 2026 — with key facilities under construction and new roles opening to support national growth.
Driving the news: Raleigh’s downtown Convention Center reopened Monday, just six weeks after a rooftop fire disrupted operations in early December.
Details:
The Dec. 1 fire started in a rooftop refrigeration unit and was extinguished within 30 minutes.
No injuries were reported.
The interior remained untouched by flames. Water damage was limited to the kitchen and administrative offices.
Six events were canceled or moved last month. Only one event this quarter has been affected.
More than 30 events scheduled through March will continue, preserving over $4 million in revenue.
Why it matters: The Convention Center is a key economic driver for downtown Raleigh, drawing tens of thousands to the area each year for trade shows, concerts, and expos. Keeping events on track means continued support for nearby hotels, restaurants, and small businesses during a critical time of year.
The big picture: Opened in 2008, the $200 million facility spans 500,000 square feet and hosts major gatherings like GalaxyCon Raleigh and the Downtown Raleigh Home Show. Despite early estimates of $2 million in damages, city crews and insurance teams moved quickly to assess, clean, and certify the building for use.
What’s next: The city continues to work through insurance claims for lost business and repairs. Meanwhile, the Center’s schedule is back on track, with officials expecting a full calendar ahead.
Driving the news: Republican lawmakers in North Carolina are actively considering reforms to reduce property tax burdens, responding to concerns from homeowners facing rising costs in the wake of surging home values.
Details:
Property values in Wake County rose by 50.6% from 2020 to 2024, marking the county’s largest-ever increase.
Some homeowners say monthly housing costs have jumped by $250–$500, especially after tax revaluations.
Raleigh managed to pass its latest city budget without a tax hike, following public pushback on rising tax bills.
A new legislative committee led by House Speaker Destin Hall is holding hearings on potential solutions.
Why it matters: Local property taxes fund schools, police, parks, and other essentials, but unchecked growth in tax bills is hurting both longtime residents and first-time buyers. Lower-income families and seniors on fixed incomes are especially vulnerable.
In fast-growing areas like Wake County, easing this financial pressure could help keep housing affordable and communities stable—critical as North Carolina continues to attract new residents.
The big picture: North Carolina joins states like Florida and California in reassessing property tax policies. Some have implemented long-term caps on tax increases, but these approaches can strain local budgets and services.
Between the lines: Lawmakers say they’re trying to strike a balance. Rep. Mike Schietzelt noted they’re looking at models like California’s Proposition 13 and Massachusetts’ Proposition 2½, which limit tax growth while preserving some local control. Other ideas include expanding tax relief eligibility for seniors and people with disabilities.
What’s next: The GOP-led committee is expected to release recommendations in the coming months. Any changes would need approval from both chambers, which are currently at odds over the state budget.
The bottom line: The property tax debate is heating up as lawmakers try to ease pressure on homeowners, without starving local governments of critical revenue.
I’m a Raleigh-based agent who’s passionate about real estate, local life, and making homeownership feel easy (and fun!). Subscribe and join 2,000+ readers who get the inside scoop every week!
