The Lead based paint issue ! Important info for Buyers, Sellers, Landlords and Renters !  Homes and condos built before 1978 have lead-based paint. Paint that has chipped or is deteriorating, or on surfaces that rub together such as windows and doors, creates lead dust which can pose serious health

Many people think they can sell their home on their own, without a licensed Realtor.  It's possible but you will most likely waste time and possibly 'miss the market' besides the fact that your buyer pool is extremely limited.  When you list a home with me, an experienced Realtor, you don't have to

So you're under contract on a home in Charleston and you're not sure if the house is in 'good shape'.  All buyers, no matter where they are buying should pay a professional home inspector to inspect their prospective home even if it is a new construction home. The fact is it's probably the largest p

“Sister cities” are ​very common in Europe and this is becoming more and more popular in the US. But what the heck is a "sister" city ? What does this mean ?  According to​ what I found in the Internet, the program was introduced​ by  President Eisenhower in 1956. The idea​ was for “individual siste

Open House - who comes and does it really work ?  So, you get a listing and of course, and the first thing an anxious seller will ask: " ..so, when do you have an open house ?  This week and next weekend and every weekend ?. "  A realtor will comply as much as possible with the sellers wishes becaus

When taking a stroll around Charleston, keep your eyes peeled for a striking red sash around a carriage driver’s waist. This is the symbol of quality and assurance of a great guided tour! The Old South Carriage Company guides will entertain you with historical facts, local lore, and humor while pass

If you think you are stuck renting and can't buy a home...think again! There are three key reasons to Buy a home instead of Renting someone else's home. 1)  Interest rates on mortgage loans are at Historic Lows!  The rates would have to go up 10% in order for it to be cheaper to rent! 2)  You can ge

You're thinking of selling your home - your most expensive possession. You say you want to 'get a good price'.  But are you willing to do a little prep work and spend a little bit of money?  Here are a few things you might want to consider doing before listing your home.  1) Have your house appraise

If you haven't noticed, it's getting darker earlier, the kids are back in school and we're still enjoying wonderfully warm temperatures in the Lowcountry.   When was the last time you went to the beach?   Some locals make a daily visit to the beach.  Some take their dogs early morning or in the even

...the ever returning question: shall I buy or continue to rent....  I am sure we all have considered the advantages of renting or owning a home. A mortgage can certainly be an uncomfortable obligation for a very long time, maybe 30 years. But rent payments, well, they are also always an obligation

Rental Property & Love  So, you have to relocate and decided to keep your home and rent it out because you think you will be back in a few years and plan to retire in the home you love ! My advise is, fall out of love !  And then hire a property manager who handles all tenant issues such as leases,

"Wow".... !! !! Yes that is what I say every time I drive into my neighborhood and turn right at Rifle Range and Myrick ! This area has changed so much just in the past year that it is almost hard to remember what it used to look like. This was one of the very view spots in Mount Pleasant where one

Charleston was at one time in history the home of pirates, lots of them ! And​ their ghosts and others, those are still living among us, in cemeteries, in houses, in hotels, in alley ways, in parks. Don't be afraid. Most of them are friendly. At night, you can hear them talk and laugh ! This is no j

Well, it's September 1st - we're half way through Hurricane Season!  When was the last time you evaluated your Homeowners Insurance?  It seems every part of our Beautiful Country can be subject to some type of severe weather conditions.  Living here in the LowCountry, especially along the coast, you

Charleston: history and beauty and colors !  There are a lot of historic homes d'town Charleston and our city is known for its beautiful architecture. The Charleston Preservation Society plays a great part in preserving our history and architecture and I am a proud member of this organization. One v

CHANGES in the neighborhood !  So, there is this very well established neighborhood called Harborgate Shores off Rifle Range Road. This neighborhood is marked with a simple sign. Turning here, one finds mostly ranch style brick homes, large yards, lots of trees and green space. A neighborhood probab

Some people prefer to buy land and build a home to fit their needs.  They may be a contractor, a builder or they know a friend who is involved with new construction.  Some people prefer to buy a home already built.  They can hang some blinds, move their belongings in and they're done!   There is mor

..and there was once NOTHING but a dumpster area right behind the gas station and fire department !  Today I stopped in awe at the corner of Ben Sawyer Blvd and Warrick !! This new neighborhood has gone up fast. And I must say, it is quite unique as the builder saved the trees and so the 12 building

Pocket neighborhoods A "pocket neighborhood" is a clustered groups of neighboring houses or apartments gathered around a shared open space — a garden courtyard, a pedestrian street, a series of joined backyards, or a reclaimed alley — all of which have a clear sense of territory and shared stewardsh

The Carolina Shag  - The South Carolina State dance "The Shag' is a partner dance done primarily to Beach Music. It is a dance recognized in national and international dance competitions held across the United States. A 1989 motion picture, “Shag,” starring Bridget Fonda, Phoebe Cates and Tyrone Pow