Three Reasons Why Buying a Home in the Fall Is a Good Idea

by carolinaone_marketing 15. September 2016 07:45


Are you looking to buy a home in Summerville, SC or elsewhere in the Lowcountry? It's not too late to get started. Although many prospective home buyers prefer to close in the summer before school starts, the truth is that fall is a great time to buy a home for those who can manage it – especially in an area with a warmer climate like the Lowcountry. You don't have to worry about snow or freezing rain later in the season as you would with other places. If you're on the fence on whether or not you should continue your search into the fall, here are several points to keep in mind:

 

There's Less Competition: As mentioned above, fall is typically a bit slower than late spring and summer because many homebuyers want to get situated before the beginning of the season. This means that if you find a house that you fall in love with, you may have fewer buyers to compete with. Anyone who has participated in a bidding war over a house can understand the benefits here. However, always remember that quality is quality, and a really good home will sell quickly any time of the year.

 

Sellers Are More Serious and Looking to Make a Deal: In many cases, sellers will be more flexible if they're motivated to sell; if not, they may just wait until spring.  Those that are still in the market during the fall and winter months may be more willing to negotiate and work with you on repairs and closing costs. Easier negotiations make for a much more positive buying experience.

 

 

You Can Take Advantage of End of the Year Sales: In addition to there being less competition and more motivated sellers this time of the year, one of the biggest benefits of buying a home in the fall is that you can buy home goods on sale. Chances are that you will need some home goods; holiday sales may help alleviate those costs. In addition to that, you may be able to save money on other costs, like moving fees, as the demand isn't as high. After the down payment, closing costs, home inspection fees, and other financial requirements, it's best to save where you can. 

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Charleston Real Estate

Which Charleston Beach Town Is Right for You?

by carolinaone_marketing 12. August 2016 08:24


Although summer is winding down, we can count on many months of good weather left here in the Lowcountry. The favorable mild climate is one of the main reasons why Charleston, SC is such a great place to call home. Of course, it is just one of many. There's the robust downtown, picturesque beaches, and laid-back southern personality where everybody says hi and time moves just a little bit slower. Even Bill Murray is proud to call Charleston, SC home.

 

If you're looking for a little bit of quiet or just enjoy waking up every morning to a view of the ocean, you may want to consider checking out residential spots at some of the beaches and barrier islands outside of downtown Charleston. Each beach town and island has its own personality, history, and features that may draw you in. The best way to get a better idea of the community and houses for sale in South Carolina is to speak with a Carolina One real estate agent who can research potential homes based on your criteria, schedule viewings, and more.

 

However, here is a really quick guide on some of the spots you may read about in your research to find your dream home in the Lowcountry:

 

Sullivan's Island: This quiet barrier island is located between Charleston Harbor and Breach Inlet. It enjoys a famed military history, which was made more famous by Edgar Allen Poe's short story, "The Gold Bug," a story he wrote when he was stationed at Fort Moultrie.  Former military homes actually serve as residential homes today, and there are more than 2,000 people who live there. If you're looking for peace and quiet but still want to be a short drive away from downtown Charleston, Sullivan's Island offers a number of great real estate options.

 

Folly Beach: Also known as "The Edge of America," Folly Beach features a number of family-fun activities all-year round. Make no mistake about it – Folly Beach is a popular tourist destination, but it has its quiet spots as well, providing residents with the best of both worlds. If you're an avid fisherman, surfer, or birdwatcher, Folly Beach is a great place to call home. If you are on the fence, check out the 1,045-foot Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, which is the second-longest pier on the East Coast and offers a view you won't find anywhere else.

 

 

Isle of Palms: Located just north of Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms is seven-mile long barrier island that enjoys a rich military history as well – it was the departure point for the CSS Hunley. It is also known for its small-town feel, beautiful beaches, and proximity to other beach communities and the city of Charleston. Residents have several shopping centers and a grocery store for their convenience, and their children can attend school in nearby Sullivan's Island, which is known for its academic excellence. As a whole, Isle of Palms offers innumerable opportunities for people looking for coastal living in the Lowcountry. 

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Charleston Real Estate

Could You Be Healthier Living By the Beach?

by carolinaone_marketing 8. August 2016 12:48


One of the main draws of living in the Charleston area is its proximity to the beach. There are a number of beaches and barrier islands that encompass the Charleston metropolitan area, and each has its own personality and charm. Whether you prefer the more laidback style of Folly Beach or the energy found in Isle of Palms, you'll fall in love with the Charleston beaches and barrier islands.

 

In addition to providing a picturesque view to wake up to, did you know that living by the beach could actually improve the likelihood that you'll enjoy good health? A study from the University of Exeter confirmed what many beach dwellers have already known. Researchers analyzed data obtained from England's 2001 census and research collected by Natural England and found that living near the beach improved exercise levels and overall wellbeing. This mirrored similar results from surveys in Australia and New Zealand.

 

So what makes the beach stand out as a great place to live for your health? If you have always wanted to live by the beach, here are several reasons why you might want to start looking at real estate near the beach in Charleston, SC today:  

 

You'll Stress Out Less: Do you feel more relaxed after you come home from the beach? This isn't just a coincidence. According to another University of Exeter study where participants were asked about their feelings on the beach in relation to other environments, the beach received more favorable reviews. In fact, when participants were put in stressful situations, like the dentist's office, and then later put in virtual ocean side settings, they reported feeling less stressed afterwards. Whether it's the sound of the waves gently hitting the shoreline or something else, the beach has the potential to make you feel calmer.

 

You'll Be More Active: The most recent University of Exeter study also highlighted the fact that beach dwellers reported being more active on the beach, which in return can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. The beach offers a wide variety of physical activities – in and out of the water – for every age and level of health. Obviously, you can go swimming in the ocean, which is good cardiovascular workout in its own right. However, there are many beachfront activities that you could participate in as well, including volleyball, playing Frisbee with friends or the dog, or just going on a stroll along the coastline by yourself or with a significant other. Exercise can encourage weight loss, manage stress levels, and potentially lower the risk of many chronic conditions that can affect physical well-being.

 

 

You'll Breathe Better: If you live in a congested area, you may not be breathing in the cleanest of air. From car exhaust to other irritants in the air, your lungs could be working overtime. Some researchers believe that the salty sea air could do wonders to help people breathe. They cite the idea that sea air may have minerals from the salt water, which are scattered into the air from the wind and waves. These minerals could stimulate immune reactions that could make it easier to loosen mucus and breathe. At the very least, the air around the coastline is usually devoid of other irritants like car exhaust or manufacturing pollution, making it a cleaner source for people with allergies or chronic breathing problems. 

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Charleston Real Estate

Five Things to Know before You Purchase a Second Home in Charleston, SC

by carolinaone_marketing 27. August 2015 06:21

If you have visited the Charleston, SC area, you may have fallen in love with it. We have, and we know many homeowners who knew they had to have a home in the Charleston area after visiting it a few times. The beaches are beautiful, the weather is great all year round, and the food is fantastic. Plus, there is a ton of history here, and the people are so friendly. They don't call it Southern Charm for nothing!

However, before you immediately go out and buy a second home in Charleston, SC, we wanted to provide you with a few words of wisdom. As experts in real estate in Charleston, SC, we have sold homes to many people who were using them as a second vacation home. Most have not regretted the decision for a second, but all of them had a clear understanding of what went into home ownership before they agreed to a contract. Here are five things you think about before looking at homes:

Get a Real Estate Agent that Is Local: If you don't live in the area that you want to move to, no matter if it's Charleston or anywhere else, you will definitely want to find a local agent who can help you find homes in the area that meet your individual needs. An agent can provide you with up to date information on new homes on the market that you may not be able to get if you're hundreds of miles away. He or she can also make you aware of any local information that you should know before you schedule a visit.

At the Same Time Get to Know the Area as Well as Possible: Like we said, we haven't encountered anyone who has had buyer's remorse purchasing a second home in Charleston, SC. Still, if you have only been to Charleston once or twice, we would recommend coming out for an extended visit. Make sure that this is really the place you want to spend your summers or winters, depending on where you are. Talk to the locals too. We're pretty sure they'll sell you on the area, but insider information can really help you know if Charleston is right for you.

Figure Out What Kind of House You Want to Buy: If you're purchasing a second home to spend time in occasionally, you may not require a lot of space. A smaller home or condo will certainly save you money on maintenance costs. However, at the same time, if you will have friends and family over when you do come to Charleston, space could be tight. Then there's the question of whether you're going to retire there. What kind of a home do you want to retire in? It's crucial to do an evaluation of what your needs are in order to make an educated decision.

Are You Going to Rent Out Your Home? If so, you will need to learn more about what your tax benefits and obligations are. For example, if you rent out your home less than 15 days out of the year, then you don't have to report that rental income. However, you can't deduct any rental expenses like upkeep, cleaning costs, etc. However, if you rent more than 15 days out of the year, you do need to report that income. However, you do get to deduct your rental expenses on your tax bill. If you wish to make a little money on your home when you're not there, renting is an option.

Examine Your Plan, Both Short Term and Long Term: If you are planning to retire there, is the home near quality healthcare facilities and does it have reliable transportation options? Obviously, if you are going to choose a home in Charleston, SC, the answer to that question will be yes. Is your second home close enough where getting there won't be a hassle if you plan on making a weekend trip? Why do you want a second home in the first place? By examining your goals and reasoning to purchase a second home, you should be able to make the right decision.

Carolina One real estate associates can help you find the home of your dreams in Charleston, Isle of Palms, Mount Pleasant, and many other parts of the Charleston metropolitan area. If you fell in love with Charleston and want to make your home here, contact us today at (800) 342-2105.

 

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Charleston Real Estate

4 Best Areas to Buy Charleston Real Estate

by carolinaone_marketing 11. November 2014 04:11

Charleston has really started to boom and more people are looking for real estate in and around the city, either to move to the area for the first time or to simply take advantage of the up-and-coming property market before prices jump. If you're trying to find a home in or near Charleston, here are four areas to consider:

1.  South of Broad – When people think of historic Charleston, chances are good that this is what they're picturing. The area south of Broad Street comprises the tip of the peninsula that makes up downtown Charleston. This neighborhood was actually the site of the first historic zoning law in the country, and it shows. Historic gems have been well-preserved and gardens are ornate and beautiful. Walking through this neighborhood is like strolling the streets of the past. Prices aren't cheap, but you won't find better Charleston real estate.

2.  Wagener Terrace – Wagener Terrace is, in many ways, the opposite of the South of Broad neighborhood, while still being completely charming and beautiful. This district, on the northwest corner of the peninsula, has become a hip and artsy community with a lot of culture. Houses tend to be smaller than SOB but nonetheless beautiful, with a good number of Craftsman bungalows. The area has a decidedly intellectual vibe to it, with coffee shops, art events, and yoga studios in ready supply.

3.  John's Island – If you're looking to enjoy all the culture of Charleston without living in the city itself, John's Island is a great choice. Of all of Charleston's commuter towns it's one of the closest, at a drive of just about ten minutes from downtown to the island. But that's not the only thing working in its favor: John's Island is also one of the most naturally beautiful communities you'll find in the area. True to its name, it's an island straddled between the rivers and the Wadmalaw Sound and, until recent years, much of the island was farmland that has only lately been opened up for development. Expect green surroundings, tidal creeks, and lots of fresh air if you move to John's Island.

4.  Goose Creek – If you're willing to have a slightly longer commute, Goose Creek is one of the better surrounding communities and offers a great balance of beauty, value, and affordability. Located about 30 minutes north of downtown Charleston, Goose Creek is a separate city, but home to many people who work in Charleston. It has a somewhat more rural feel, with great schools and a strong economy thanks to nearby Navy facilities.

What part of Charleston are you looking at? Contact us at Carolina One Real Estate with any questions or to set up a tour!

 

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Charleston Real Estate

3 "Strange" Facts about Charleston

by carolinaone_marketing 12. September 2014 05:35

If you're reading this, it's safe to assume that you're interested in moving soon. There are about 4.7 million people that call the Palmetto State home, and a couple hundred thousand people reside in the greater Charleston area. Why have you been looking at Charleston real estate? Are you interested in living in a small city with a lot of Southern charm? Do you want a place that feels like a tropical paradise, such as the Isle of Palms? Are you drawn to areas with a booming military industry like Goose Creek, SC? Are you drawn in by the area's excellent school districts?

There are a variety of reasons to move to the greater Charleston area, but even some Charleston lovers may not know some interesting facts about the place they love. For example, did you know that…

Bill Murray is the Director of Fun and Co-Owner of the Charleston Riverdogs

Is there any celebrity that's more universally beloved than Bill Murray? Almost everyone reading this will have a favorite that immediately comes to mind. Bill Murray is a huge fan of minor league baseball clubs, and has co-ownership of teams in St. Paul, Fort Myers, and Hudson Valley. And don't assume that he's like the average team owner that rarely shows up to games and spends their time isolated from fans in skyboxes. He has thrown out first pitches, and has even coached first base!

Charleston has old "earthquake proof" buildings

If you go into downtown Charleston, you may notice that some of the older buildings have black disks or crossed bolts on the outside. Those iron pieces aren't there for decoration; they're there to help protect the buildings from earthquakes. When most people think about earthquakes in the United States, they are usually imagining events out west. Although it isn't common, earthquakes do occur on the east coast. In 1886, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake devastated the Charleston area. After the quake, structures were built with earthquake tension rods to strengthen them. The black circles and crosses you see are the ends of the rods that were put in more than century ago!

Old Charleston homes were built for optimal comfort

Charleston summers can be brutal, even if you have an air conditioner or fan. In the past, Charleston residents dealt with the heat the best way they could: by designing their houses so that they were as comfortable as possible. Traditional homes and buildings in Charleston had decks and piazzas that faced south or west to make sure that residents got ample cooling breezes. Some of the older buildings even had their entertaining rooms on the second floor to avoid mosquitoes, which can't fly that high.

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Charleston Real Estate

4 Things Expect When Buying a Historic Home

by carolinaone_marketing 29. May 2014 09:25

If you're looking for homes in Charleston, you have a lot of options available to you. You could easily find a nice condo in the downtown district, or you can find a reasonably priced family home in almost every neighborhood. People have their own reasons for looking for Charleston real estate, but some aren't moving to the city because they want to be closer to their job or to the downtown area. 

Charleston has been a prominent city for centuries and, as the years passed, more and more homes have been built. The city is full of historic homes for sale, and people that have always wanted to own a small part of history come to Charleston determined to find one of their own. Owning a historic home can seem very appealing, but before you commit to it, there are a few things you should know:

Limited exterior work

If you fall in love with a historic home, you should find one that you love "as is." Some people don't mind sprucing up a home with a new coat of paint and few new windows, but if you own a historic home, your improvement projects may be severely limited. The goal of every historic district is to preserve the character and look of a neighborhood, and the majority of them do this by having rules about how the exterior of the house looks. Depending on what neighborhood you live in, you may not be able to make any changes without getting approval from a committee.

Major inside repair work

You may not be able to paint your house a different color, but you may have to do some electrical or plumbing work to make the house habitable. This is one of the trade-offs of owning a historical home. Some homeowners have to pay a couple thousand dollars to have their homes re-wired for electricity because they current set up was dangerous. Others have had to install HVAC systems to make the homes more comfortable in Charleston's sweltering summers. 

Checking for dangerous chemicals

Today's builders wouldn't dream of insulating a house with asbestos or painting rooms with lead paint, but the home builders of the past wouldn't have given it a second thought. If you're looking into buying a historic home, you should have your home inspected for any potential dangerous building materials (especially if you have children or elderly tenants). Remember, it's possible to get these things removed, but it could cost extra money.

Potential tax breaks

There is a big difference between owning a home in a historic district and owning a home that is registered as a historic place. Local municipalities, state, and even federal authorities all have historic registries, and if your home happens to be on one, you could qualify for some property tax breaks from the state. 

Why Charleston?

by carolinaone_marketing 6. May 2014 05:45

Charleston real estate is an attractive choice for an increasing number of people, especially first-time homebuyers. Many people boast that Charleston is the "jewel of the South," but if you've never visited this southern city, you may be wondering why people are jumping at the chance to live here. Below are just some of the reasons why Charleston is the place to search for a home.

  • Affordable Prices – The housing crash is a thing of the past and there is once again stability in the real estate market. Further, mortgage rates are still considerably low, which makes your overall purchase price even more affordable. The median price for a three bedroom, two-bath home in Charleston last year was just over $200,000. Obtaining a mortgage for this amount and putting 20K down makes a mortgage payment of $1,200 affordable for many singles and families.
  • Cozy City with Character – Once you've visited Charleston, you will agree that it is by far one of the most beautiful cities in the country. The area is famous for historical attractions like Fort Sumter and Drayton Hall, as well as its year-round perfect weather. People who visit Charleston talk at length about the gorgeous homes, friendly people, and delicious low country cuisine (featuring everything from staple soul food like fried okra and collard greens to Cajun classics like gumbo, southern favorites like shrimp and grits, and French coq au vin). This city is so wonderful that it is constantly featured on television shows and in travel magazines, and has dominated the "best cities" lists for the past several years.
  • Wise Investment – One look at Charleston real estate and you're sure to realize that these low prices aren't going to stick around forever. Homebuyers snatching up properties in Charleston are certain to see their home values rise quickly over the next several years. With Charleston getting so much nationwide attention, choosing this city as home is a very wise investment.

These are just a few of the reasons that Charleston homes are in demand and the city continues to dominate "best cities" lists. Charleston is the perfect place for any and everybody and, as more and more people catch on to that, home prices will begin so rise. It's important to move quickly so you don't miss out on living in this special place!

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Charleston Real Estate

South Carolina -- A Beach Lover's Paradise

by carolinaone_marketing 28. March 2014 04:59

Summer will be here before we know it. Those of you who are looking for a beach house in the South Carolina area should start looking soon. So the question is:  where are some of the best beaches located? Look no further than the city of Charleston. It has everything you need and more. Charleston real estate offers many different styles of houses in various beach locations. Picking what area can be difficult since each one has so much to offer. To make things easier, we have chosen three of the best beaches in Charleston that you are sure to fall in love with:

Sullivan’s Island – This Island is as charming and picturesque as they get. It is packed with massive beaches, charming restaurants, and trendy shops. The location is full of history and folklore, adding to the island’s appealing quality. The activities are endless, no matter what age you are. From kite boarding and various watersports to visiting the historical site of Fort Moultrie and learning about the Revolutionary War, Sullivan’s Island promises an unforgettable stay.

Folly Beach- This beach area is known for its lackadaisical and easygoing atmosphere. This is the perfect beach to just lay back and relax without any worries.  If you are a surfer or want a more secluded beach to soak in the rays, then head up toward Washout. Folly Beach is also popular for its locally-owned shops and restaurants where everyone you meet exudes that famous southern hospitality. It’s easy to forget that there is a busy, bustling world outside when visiting here.

Isle of Palms- This irresistible location has everything that you could dream of in a beach town. The beaches, golf courses, parks, marinas, tennis courts, and more make it the perfect place to go for adults and kids alike. There is little that you can’t do in a place like this. Whether you are traveling as a family, a couple, or just by yourself, The Isle of the Palms will provide you with endless entertainment and activity.

Now that you have an idea of what each beach has to offer, the choice is yours. The only hard part is choosing what type of real estate in Charleston you would love to get for your summer vacation. Proximity is key when choosing a beach house. So the question is – which is your favorite location?

 

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Beachfront property | Charleston Real Estate

How to Choose the Right Home for Your Family

by carolinaone_marketing 4. March 2014 04:18

Buying your first home is an enormous commitment. You and your family probably know the basics of what you’re looking for, like your approximate budget and how many bedrooms you need. You also have a sense of features and amenities that you do and don’t want in your new house. But how sure are you of what will make you happy or unhappy in a home? Here are some things to help you determine what will matter the most in the long run when purchasing Charleston real estate.

Image of couple painting their new home

HVAC that You Can Live with

Reliable heating and cooling systems can go a long way to make a house into a beloved and comfortable home. Owners whose houses have central heat and air conditioning often find that, in addition to keeping their living spaces at comfortable temperatures, these systems are easy to use and maintain compared to options like window air conditioning units and gas boilers.

Layout & Design

Another feature that most homeowners find very satisfying is an open floor plan. Home designs with lots of interior walls feel smaller than those with open spaces, even if the square footage is identical. Lots of large windows also contribute to a sense of openness, and can go a long way towards creating a space that you look forward to coming home to each day.

It's the Little Things

Don’t let yourself get hung up on small details within a house that you’re considering. Remember that it’s relatively easy to paint a room, retile a floor, or replace a set of countertops. Instead, focus on finding a floor plan that will work for you and your family.

Won't you be my Neighbor?

Keep in mind that you’re choosing not just a home, but also a neighborhood. You’ll be happiest in a place with neighbors whose lives are compatible with yours. For instance, if you have children in elementary school, your family won’t enjoy living in a neighborhood of retirees as much as they would like living in a community with other kids.

Don’t be afraid to trust your intuition. If you find yourself picturing just where your furniture will go in a potential home, it’s a sign that the property in question may be the one for you.

When you start looking for Charleston real estate, you may find your dream house almost immediately. Or it could take a while to discover the home that’s just right for you and your family. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to move quickly when you find a place you love.

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Charleston Real Estate

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