Category: Real Estate

With mortgage rates on the decline due to COVID-19, buyers are encouraged to take advantage and lock in today’s low rates while they still can. Although it is still uncertain how it will impact the real estate market long-term, it will be interesting to see if low mortgage rates are enough of an incentive for buyers to make an offer.

Closed Sales +4.4% | Median Sales Price +10.8% |  Months Supply -29.3%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivan’s Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston
• Summerville
• Goose Creek

Featured Listing

Located in the heart of Folly Beach, this home would make the perfect rental, primary residence, or a combination of both. Features include a metal roof, two gas tankless water heaters, two gas fireplaces, high end finishes and multiple decks perfect for lounging and entertaining. For more info, visit: bit.ly/207EArcticAve

In the News

Charleston Coast Vacations

Booking direct always ensures you have the best choice of properties and dates while getting exceptional service from our team at Charleston Coast Vacations. When you’re ready to make vacation plans, visit CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Today is the first day of spring!
Have you started your Spring Cleaning Checklist yet?

By now, most people know what it means to “buy local.” In Charleston for instance, it’s known that buying local seafood ensures the upmost freshness, and similarly by supporting local book stores, your dollars circulate in the community. But what difference does it make in real estate transactions? In my experience, the local providers make transactions go more smoothly every step along the way.

Lenders

You might ask “what difference does it make if I use some nationally known lender that I can access online versus a local lender?” The convenience of logging on at 10:00 pm and typing in information might seem like an easier option than meeting face to face, or even scheduling a call with a local lender. In the long run however, the convenience on the front end might turn out to be less convenient once the process begins in earnest. One out of state lender told my client that she did not need a CL-100 (letter indicating no termites or damage) and she nearly cancelled the appointment to inspect. This lack of knowledge about the specifics of SC real estate transactions can create speed bumps when closing a deal, and even the difference in time zones have caused problems with closing on time. Most importantly, I find local lenders also understand the pricing in this market better than national companies and tend to approve loans for higher price point because they know the market will support it.

Insurance

Living in the Lowcountry means risks and hazards that may be unfamiliar in other areas of the country. An insurance provider based in Kansas may not be aware of our flood insurance risks, wind and hail issues, and even earthquakes here. For example, there was a tremor in Summerville in June, and they happen regularly. Local agents know this, and can advise you accordingly.

Appraisers

Appraising real property is not an exact science. It takes judgement, discernment and experience. The difference between Folly Beach and Johns Island is not just 15 miles of travel. It can be the difference between a quirky beach house and a horse farm – with the same price tag. Appraisers may be well-qualified in Columbia to make a judgement about different kinds of property, but may be geographically incompetent here. Appraising homes in a subdivision in a more homogeneous area is also a different challenge than the many diverse types of homes and lifestyles here in the Charleston market.

Realtors

So often I work with clients who are getting advice from a family member or friend who is a real estate agent in another part of the country, or even this state. It’s only natural to seek that advice from family members who only have their best interests in mind, to help them make a big decision. More often than not, that advice does not apply in this particular market. The market in New Jersey is very different than Mt. Pleasant. An experienced, local Realtor® knows that a well-priced home in Riverland Terrace is not going to last long, and offering 20% below asking price will not get the job done. I’ve had more than one client lose an opportunity because of advice they received that does not apply to this unique market with its many equally unique sub-markets. Similarly, in North Carolina, it is customary to have the appraisal done before the home inspection, where here it is the opposite. My clients who moved to Iowa, learned that finished space that is heated and cooled but in the basement is not counted in the total square footage. We don’t have basements for the most part, but here all heated and cooled space is counted.

There are so many things that can affect real estate transactions on all fronts, and working with local experts can make all the difference in getting to closing.

• – Terry Bell-Aby, Realtor®
• Mobile  508-627-2988  | Terry@dunesproperties.com

As we move into February, the question remains – will inventory suffice? While many see the housing shortage as a negative, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun sees this as good news for home prices. “National median home price growth is in no danger of falling due to inventory shortages and will rise by 4%,” he predicts. Yun and others would also like to see home builders bring more affordable units to market, which I think we can all agree with, especially in the Charleston market.

Closed Sales +20.6% | Median Sales Price +8.1% |  Months Supply -25%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivan’s Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston
• Summerville
• Goose Creek

Featured Listing

WOW does this property have it all! This stunning waterfront home on the Isle of Palms boasts 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, gorgeous elevated pool, and a 50′ private dock that includes power, water, a fish cleaning station and two drive on jet ski docks…plus, all of the privacy and amenities of Wild Dunes! For more information, visit: bit.ly/46WaterwayIsland

In the News

New Vacation Rental!

There’s still time to book your summer vacay. You could even stay at our newest vacation rental, “BodSEA” on the Isle of Palms! Check out our newest rentals, search by location and book direct at CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Upcoming Events

Lights of Magnolia | November 15 – March 15
Join us for “Lights of Magnolia: Reflections of a Cultural Exchange.” The lantern festival will feature custom-designed installations of large-scale lanterns, a fusion of historic Chinese cultural symbols, and images that represent the flora and fauna of Magnolia Plantation. or more info, CLICK HERE.

Charleston Wine + Food Festival | March 4 – 8
Join us for the 15th installment of the Charleston Wine + Food festival as we celebrate the city’s local food culture. Join us in Marion Square, various locations downtown and around Charleston for exclusive dinners, wine tastings, workshops, excursions, and seminars. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Festival of Houses & Gardens | March 11 – April 18
Step inside the private houses and gardens of some of the city’s most stunning properties, learn about Charleston’s distinctive architecture and history and celebrate our unique culture at luncheons, musical concerts and other Lowcountry lifestyle events. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Hellooo 2020! As we wrap up 2019, we are happy to report that thanks to continued low mortgage rates, low unemployment, and wage growth, we anticipate home buyer activity to remain healthy into the new year. While inventory remains low (-23.1%), it is important to note that new construction has been on the rise in the past year, and is expected to continue into 2020 as well.

Closed Sales +19.6% | Median Sales Price -.07% |  Months Supply -23.1%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston
• Summerville
• Goose Creek

From the Blog

Featured Listing

Located in James Island’s prestigious White Point Estates, this beautifully appointed 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home boasts 11 ft ceilings, hardwood floors throughout, a stunning new kitchen and large covered porch that overlooks the salt-water pool and marsh below. Live oaks line the marsh and provide beautiful views and privacy all year long, while a dock provides access to the waterway beyond. For more information, visit: bit.ly/882WhitePointBlvd

It’s Almost Summer, Which Means…

There’s still time to book your summer vacay! Check out our newest rentals, search by location and book direct at CharlestonCoastVacations.com.

Upcoming Events

2020 Jazz Festival | January 25th
Don’t miss the 6th Annual Charleston Jazz Festival as it presents The World of Regina Carter, widely considered the finest jazz violinist of her generation. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Lowcountry Oyster Festival | January 26th
Join us at Boone Hall Plantation for the world’s largest oyster festival and has been named one of the “top 20 events in the southeast” by Southeastern Tourism Society. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Charleston Coffee Fest | February 9th
Join us at LoFi Brewing to celebrate Charleston’s burgeoning coffee culture, featuring local and non-local coffee roasters, artisans, coffee competitors, and kids activities. For more info, CLICK HERE.

Are you thinking of using a discount real estate agent to sell your home? After all, all they do is stick a sign in the ground and put it on MLS – anyone can do that, right? WRONG. There is much more to selling your home for top dollar.

First and Foremost – Marketing

Real Estate in 2019 has one primary driving force and that is “click-bait.” What is click bait? It is the undefinable but compelling reason to click on a photo. Because virtually all real estate searches begin with the internet, in order to be competitive your home must warrant that first click. People do not even take a full second to see a photo before they move on to one that is more attractive. I use a professional, architectural photographer to ensure that my clients get the maximum clicks both with great photos and by selecting the “money” shot for that first image – often not the front of the home.

The “Money Shot” | 1365 Whippoorwill Farm Road, Johns Island

Another way to ensure clicks, is to stage the home for more compelling photos. Both of these things can be expensive and discount agents can’t afford the time or money to do them. I have proven time and time again it works, and I can actually save you money by focusing your efforts on what will really make a difference.

Once a buyer clicks the next most important thing is the description. Professional writing makes for a description that goes beyond the bedroom and bathroom count but sells the essence of what is great about your home. I bring the entire Dunes marketing team to sell your home. Moreover, I will be present at every showing – after all, who can sell your home better than I can!

Experience – No Substitute

Often discount agents are inexperienced and not confident of their training or self-worth to do the job or they wouldn’t sell themselves short. I know the value I bring to the table.

One particular irritant I experience is other agents doing the minimum work until they are asked for more. I will make certain that all relevant documents are readily available to other agents in advance such as plot plans, insurance declarations, HOA documents, and relevant flood insurance information to prevent delays in communication.

I am so fortunate to have discovered great resources over the years. I found the best home inspector, best architectural photographer, my fantastic stager, and a real estate attorney that has never been less than perfect in addition to countless construction specialists that clients might need along the way. Discount agents typically will not go that extra mile.

In addition, I have a 26-point Service Level Agreement that describes everything I will do to get you top dollar and sell quickly.

Negotiation

As a Certified Negotiation Specialist, I have been trained in the art of negotiation – fewer than 1% of REALTORS® have that designation. If I can’t negotiate for myself to receive what I am worth, how can I be a tough but fair negotiator for my sellers?

It’s Rarely Just a Business Decision

Even the most pragmatic business professionals I encounter find this to be an emotional decision. They swear up and down that it will not be that way and invariably something in the process triggers an emotion he or she was not expecting. This is a life-changing move. I am a trained problem-solver, and I have a sales manager and broker to also help me manage problems as they arise. If I can get you a higher sale price, the commission will pay for itself.

Have you ever bought or purchased a lower priced service and then regretted not stepping up to the better quality in the first place? Are you willing to take that kind of chance with selling your largest asset?

• • – Terry Bell-Aby, Realtor®
• Mobile  508-627-2988  | Terry@dunesproperties.com

For quite some time, Mount Pleasant, SC has been the fastest growing town in the Charleston area. Our agents are often asked if it’s still possible for first time home buyers to find affordable housing in a community so in demand. And the answer is – of course! – but you have to know where to look. While the days of abundant fixer uppers and “handyman specials” in Mount Pleasant’s well established neighborhoods have come and gone, you can still occasionally find a home in need of some love. However, for the widest variety of results in the under 300K category, you’ll need to look at condos and townhomes. For now, there is a nice variety of 1-3 bedroom / 1-3 bath attached homes in the under 300K price range, but with the way this town is booming, who knows for how long?

After a quick search of the area and price range, we’re featuring two properties in a great neighborhood: Etiwan Pointe

241 Etiwan Pointe Drive
Like most townhome communities, Etiwan Pointe’s monthly HOA includes ALL exterior maintenance, insurance, and lawn care. The neighborhood also features amenities like a pool and fitness center, but what truly sets it apart from the other condos and townhomes in this price range is the deep water community dock. Access to the Lowcountry’s waterways is a HUGE perk! Winding Rathall Creek leads directly to the Wando River and is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or enjoying the sunset . Bonus: the home at 241 Etiwan Pointe Drive is currently the lowest priced in the neighborhood and boasts abundant sunlight and marsh views from the screened in porch and master bedroom.

116 Summers Creek Court 109-1
Etiwan Pointe is within biking distance of Westbrook Brewery, Long Point Grill, and is extremely close to the Kearns Park Trail, which meanders through a maritime forest along the Wando River and offers stunning views of the harbor, bridges, and marshes. You walk right out the door of116 Summer Creek to the community pool across the street. This home features two porches – one screened in off of the living room and the other located next to the dining room to expand your entertaining space with the opening of French doors. Bonus: the price was recently reduced!

Overall the economy is performing well due to factors such as low unemployment and solid retail sales. An interest rate reduction seems likely in 2019 and would, especially in the Charleston market, be a welcome opportunity for growth.

Closed Sales -1.3% | Median Sales Price +7.3% | Months Supply -5.1%

Market Statistics by Area

• Downtown Charleston
• Upper Charleston Peninsula
• Upper Mount Pleasant
• Lower Mount Pleasant
• Daniel Island
• Folly Beach
• Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes
• Sullivans Island
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• James Island
• West Ashley
• Johns Island
• North Charleston

Featured Property

Pool party anyone? 😎🍹 This stunning marshfront home on Sullivan’s Island recently underwent a whole-house renovation by Renaissance South Construction where no expense was spared! Enjoy gorgeous marsh views from the unbelievable outdoor area with spacious deck, infinity-edge pool, large hot tub, and cabana area complete with a grill, bar and sitting area perfect for relaxing and entertaining! For more information, visit www.2402Raven.com

We Did It Again!

Did you hear the news? For the 7th consecutive year, the readers of Travel + Leisurehave named Charleston the No. 1 city in the US. I can’t say we’re surprised, but we’ll take it! To read the full article visit: bit.ly/ChasNo1USCity

Where to Eat in Charleston, July 2019

Baker and Brewer

Baker and Brewer   |   Downtown Charleston
Located at the former home of DeSano Pizza Bakery, Baker and Brewer is the hottest new pizzeria and brewpub from the makers of EVO Pizzeria and Holy City Brewing.

Dashi   |   North Charleston
Fans of Dashi’s foodtruck (myself included) are thrilled to finally see a brick-and-morter restaurant, serving up Asian and Latin cuisines – now with an expanded menu!

The Salty Dog

The Salty Dog Cafe   |   Bohicket Marina
After a long wait, The Salty Dog has opened in Bohicket Marina (right next to our Kiawah/Seabrook office!) offering waterfront dining with some pretty great views.

Maison  |   Downtown Charleston
Brought to you by Carlton “Vandy” Vanderwarker, the former chef de cuisine at The Ordinary, and former Fish bartender, Will Love, Maison is a french inspired bistro sure to please!

As we hit the mid-year mark, we are starting to notice a reoccurring trend – low inventory and steadily increasing home sales. In addition to this, we are currently seeing a slight rise in days on market (up 8.5% from this time last year), which is most likely due to schools being out for the summer causing buyers to wait to make those large purchase. That being said, markets across the country are starting to level off, meaning more wiggle room for buyers which is always a good sign. As long as the weather works in our favor, we anticipate a healthy real estate market for the Charleston area.

Closed Sales +3.0% | Median Sales Price +4.0% | Months Supply -2.6%

Market Statistics by Area

Spring has SPRUNG and eager buyers are out in full force this season. With beautiful weather and new listings up 4.2%, it’s no wonder competition is fierce for well-priced homes in the Charleston area. Although inventory is still a factor, sellers are poised to make quite a profit in the coming months. With the the national unemployment rate dropping to 3.6% during April 2019 (the lowest level since 1969) we anticipate a positive affect on the real estate market.

Closed Sales -2.6% | Median Sales Price 0.0% | Months Supply 0.0%

Market Statistics by Area

Despite mixed weather patterns across much of the U.S. in the first quarter, prices in the Charleston,SC market moved higher as the Median Sales Price was up 5.8 percent. Many home buyers and sellers are sighing in relief as the Federal Reserve announced there will be no further interest rate hikes planned for 2019. This is great news for the area and we anticipate increasing numbers reflected not only in home sales, but in terms of mortgage rates as well, which typically follow suit.

Closed Sales -9.1% | Median Sales Price + 5.8% | Months Supply -2.6%

Market Statistics by Area