Our top things to make sure not to overlook when you search for the next place to call home.

Signing a contract to rent or buy a home is a big deal. Like we mentioned in our post on reasons to buy a home instead of renting one in 2021, a mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you will make in your life. Even if you are only looking to rent a home, odds are that the rent you will be agreeing to in your lease will be the highest monthly expenditure that you have. With such a high price tag, it’s important that you due your homework and pick the perfect place to call home. This post is going to pick out some of the crucial things to think about and look for during your search for your next home. Some of them are more obvious than others, and they all come down to personal preference and priority. However, to find the perfect home, you should think about each and every one of them.

1.      Lighting

Many people forget to think about lighting when they search for their new home. Turning on the lights is all you need, right? Who cares about sunlight? Thinking this way might make you feel differently after a few months of living in your new home.

Honestly, getting a good amount of natural light through the windows is very important. It brightens up your home and makes you generally happier, all while lowering your electric bill. We’re not kidding – higher amounts of natural light are scientifically proven to make people happier, and using sunlight to brighten your home rather than light fixtures can save you a lot when it is time to pay the electricity bill! Regardless of how nice a house or condo may be, if it tends to be like a dark cave for most of the day it will eventually get to be depressing.

Of course, lighting changes throughout the day. If you have a beachfront condo in Myrtle Beach, for example, you are going to get incredible lighting from the east in the morning and then more light from the west in the evening. This is something to consider as you tour different homes during your search, as the hour of your visit can greatly impact your overall impression of the place, for better or for worse. Don’t wait until its too late to realize how important good lighting is. You will thank us later!

2.      Size

Everyone has different needs, and no measurement shows that more than the square footage of a new home. Some people are comfortable raising a family of four in a 700 square foot apartment, while other single people need at least 1,000 square feet just to not feel cramped. Only you know the right answer to the question of how much space you need to live comfortably, and for some people, too much space can be more stressful than too little!

Of course, expectations are vastly different between homes and apartments, as most homes will tend to be much bigger than apartments. Still, it is important to envision the future, as your space needs will change over time. If you’re looking to start a family, you will probably need more space in the near future than you do right now. If you are moving closer towards an empty nest, you might not need as much space and might want to consider downsizing. If grandchildren are on their way, it is important to consider the rooms and spaces you will need as they grow up in the coming years, if you intend on staying in your home that long.

3.      Layout

You would expect layout to kind of go hand in hand with size, but that isn’t quite the case. For example, there are two-bedroom apartments that are 750 square feet and one-bedroom apartments that are over 1,000 square feet. As a result, square footage simply can’t be the only determinant when it comes to satisfying your space needs. It is much more complicated than that!

When it comes to the layout, there are two main things to consider. Firstly, what rooms are in the home, and where exactly do they fall on the floor plan? Let’s say you are looking into buying a three-bedroom house right on the beach. That sounds like a dream, right? In many ways, it probably is! However just because there are three bedrooms, and the home is in a great location doesn’t mean that it is the one for you. The living room and dining room may be in the same open space, for example, or the bathrooms might be on the opposite side of the house as the bedrooms. The point is, you need to double check the layout of the home and critically consider whether or not it is conducive to your future goals.

4.      Price

Arguably the biggest limiter for most people during the home-searching process is price. After all, odds are you don’t have unlimited funds to dip into for your next home! The price needs to fit into your budget, both now and in the future. What exactly does that mean?

Firstly, we think you should check out our post on building a budget to save for a home. Honestly, it’s great both for people looking to buy a new house and for people looking to rent an apartment. We included plenty of general tips that can help you to find funds you didn’t know you had!

Anyway, when considering the price of your new home, make sure to include any fees that might be included when fitting it into your budget. Between closing costs, parking fees, condo fees, and property tax, there is a lot more that goes into the cost of a new home than just the sticker price on the sign outside. As you will be signing a contract that obliges you to monthly payments typically for at least a year, you need to be very careful not to overspend or exceed your budget, as you will be feeling the ramifications of that decision for many months to come.

5.      Location

You probably already have a general idea of where you want to move. Myrtle Beach, perhaps? We sure hope so; we’d love to meet you and convince you why Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to buy a home, if you haven’t already decided that! But regardless of the city or town, there is a lot more that plays into the actual location of the home that you need to consider when deciding between different options.

This might be proximity to restaurants and stores. It might be the school district that the home is in, as a block’s difference can mean an entirely different educational landscape. It could also be the proximity to public transportation, as you might be a bus or subway type of person! Also, you might like the hustle of a city and not mind the street noise, or you might prefer being a bit further away from the noise in exchange for longer drives to get to places that you need to go. Regardless, going deeper than just a city or town level and considering the actual location of the home is very important and is often overlooked.

6.      Utility Bills

Do you enjoy paying your electricity bill every month? Yeah, we don’t either. Sadly, paying utility bills is just a part of life and we can’t escape it, no matter how much we would like to. What we can do, though, is minimize the monthly amount of our money that has to go towards paying them. While adapting personal habits and lowering your consumption is one way to lower the bills naturally, another way is to actively compare the average utility bills in the areas that you are looking and search for places that tend to stay on the lower end.

Now, how is this possible? There are many things that go into your utility bills every month, and there are several things that might lead you to spend more than you need to each month. For example, some windows are really bad at insulating your home and cause your heating and air conditioning bills to go up during the hottest and coldest months. Old appliances, like microwaves and refrigerators, may use more electricity than newer ones for doing the same exact job. Even checking out the gallons per flush of the toilets is worth considering! Each of these factors, and more, contribute their little portion to the utility bill each month, and finding a place with new windows, appliances, and environmentally (and budget) friendly lighting fixtures can shave a good chunk off of your monthly payments.

7.      Neighbors

You have less control of this one, but it’s important to investigate it as much as possible before moving into a new home. While it is pretty hard to meet new neighbors before moving into a home, and the neighbors themselves move in and move out over time, considering the general vibe of the building or neighborhood is really important when deciding which home to go with.

If you are moving into a house, you can get a general idea about the neighbors from what the outside of their home looks like. Never judge a book by its cover, but definitely consider the effort they put into maintaining their home. Bad lawncare, for example, can lead to your own lawn being infested with dandelions or other weeds! In an apartment building, consider the thickness of the walls, the smell of the building, and the appearance of any laundry facilities or trash rooms. That can give you a good idea of who you’re living with.

8.      Landlord, Property Manager, or Realtor

If you are going to buy a home, this one might be a little bit less important to you, as your interaction with a realtor may dwindle as you take ownership of the house. We’re still always here to help, though! If you are looking to lease a home or an apartment, however, you will always have a landlord or property manager to consider. This one can make or break a good home.

Landlords can be very hit or miss. Some really care about their tenants and strive to provide the best service possible. Maintenance requests might be filled as soon as within a couple of hours in some places! However, other places have a very different track record, and this can lead to a bad experience. Firstly, it is very important to be a good tenant. That can go a long way. When you sign a lease, you are agreeing to pay rent on time. If you don’t pay your rent on time, you don’t really have room to complain about bad service. However, if you pay your bills on time and respect the rules, you can expect perfect service in return. If that isn’t met, the situation may begin to deteriorate over time. Vetting the landlord or property manager before signing a lease can save you a bunch of headaches down the line. To do this, we recommend finding reviews online or searching for other properties that they may own and getting in contact with the current tenants.

9.      Level

This one applies more so to condos and apartments, as houses tend to be their own entity. That is not always the case, though, as split-level homes may fall into this category, too! There are a few different things to think about regarding the level, or floor, of the home you are considering.

Firstly, do you or someone in your family require the home to be ADA accessible? If this is the case, first floor units, ramps, and elevators might be really important to you. Do you prioritize getting good natural light in the home? Higher floors might be a better option for you. If there is no elevator, do you mind taking the stairs up four stories? Are the floors thick enough to block out the sound from above, or would you be better off on the top floor to block out noise?

All of these things should factor into your decision. Low floors tend to be noisier, both from neighbors above and street sounds outside, but they are also easier to get to and to move in to. Higher floors tend to get better lighting and be quieter but require the use of an elevator or flights of stairs to get up and down. That’s not a great thing if you have a new puppy!

10.  Amenities

The final factor that we recommend considering is any amenities that may be offered by the property you are considering moving in to. With regards to a stand-alone house, this might include a pool, a garage, a finished basement, beach access, or many other things. When it comes to an apartment complex or a housing development, this may include a gym, a pool, tennis and basketball courts, a business center, a community lounge, and more. Some people don’t really care about all of the bells and whistles that may be offered, but to other people they can mean tons of savings.

Depending on where you live, a gym membership may cost you hundreds of dollars per year. A pool membership may cost you the same. These amenities, if you will use them, can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars to you per year and can change the value you get for your monthly mortgage or rent payment.

Hopefully this post helped you to think of a few aspects of home searching that often go overlooked. Again, buying a home or signing a lease is one of the biggest commitments you will make in your life, and it is crucial that you do your homework before signing on the dotted line. If you have any questions about anything you read in this post, be sure to reach out to us at the email address or phone number below.

We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether Myrtle Beach is your next home or not, and we are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams. Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  

No One Knows The Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

While the Grand Strand has some of the best beaches on the east coast and is jam-packed with fun activities and other things to do, the Myrtle Beach area is just as famous for its mouth-watering local cuisine – Calabash food. Calabash food is probably the main reason why everyone seems to pack on a few pounds during their trip to Myrtle Beach, and if you’ve ever had it before, you can probably imagine why. If you haven’t had it, though, you’re probably wondering “what is Calabash food?” This post is going to answer that question for you and will also provide a little insight into what makes Calabash food so famous.

What is Calabash food?

Calabash food is the extremely popular local style of seafood in the Myrtle Beach area. This regional style of cooking is named after the town of Calabash, North Carolina which is a bit under an hour north of Myrtle Beach. In the 1930s, locals started opening up small restaurants that served their local cooking, and as people passed through, the food spread like wildfire. Basically, Calabash style seafood is lightly breaded in cornmeal and then deep fried. It might not sound too special or unique, but the freshness of the local seafood mixed with the cooking style are honestly a magical combination. If you like seafood, it really is some of the best fried food you’ll ever have.

What kinds of Calabash Food are there?

Calabash food can be pretty much any kind of seafood. The offerings range from shellfish like scallops and clams, to fresh fish like cod and flounder, to hush puppies! If you’ve never had hush puppies, you are probably wondering “what are hush puppies, anyway?” Good question. Honestly, they’re my favorite Calabash food item. Hush puppies are basically the batter that is used to bread the seafood, deep fried. There isn’t anything inside of them. They are kind of like corndogs, but without the hot dog and stick, and even more deeply fried. They’re just fried batter, and if you add a little bit of honey butter, they may be the best Calabash food that you’ll ever try.

Where can I get Calabash Food?

Calabash food is served all over and in all kinds of different settings, but the best way to eat it is in the giant Calabash buffets that are dotted throughout the area. These are great, because you can try as much of everything as you want. If you try out the Calabash scallops and love them, you can go grab a second plate. If you try the Calabash shrimp and realize they’re not your thing, you can go grab a plate of something else that you like a little bit more. Do you have people in your group who aren’t really fans of seafood? Most of the Calabash buffets are so huge that they have plenty of non-seafood items on offer, that way everyone has something to choose from. I should also mention that most of the buffets serve bottomless crab legs, so while the ticket price can be on the higher end, you can absolutely get your money’s worth!

Which are the best Calabash Buffets in Myrtle Beach?

This question doesn’t have an easy answer. Depending on who you talk to, you will almost always get a different answer. The big buffets are all different, serving different food and offering up a different ambiance. Some are a bit nicer while others are more casual. Some focus on the Calabash food specifically while others offer up a wider menu. They are just all different and the “best Calabash buffet in Myrtle Beach” is going to be different for everyone.

With that being said, there are three very popular ones right in Myrtle Beach that tend to hover around the top of the list. Firstly there is Crabby Mike’s, which is located in Surfside Beach right off of highway 17. Crabby Mike’s has a little bit for everyone, with great seafood options, a full-service bar, and a handful of non-seafood options. It is an awesome all-around place, and if you can get a table without an absurd wait time, you should check it out.

Then there is The Original Benjamin’s, which is a lighthouse shaped restaurant offering up an even wider selection of food than Crabby Mike’s but without the bar. At The Original Benjamins, you will find a great buffet area with seafood and non-seafood entrees and side dishes, a full salad bar, a carving station, and a very long buffet stocked specifically with Calabash-style fried seafood. If you’re looking for the buffet with the widest offering, this one may be the best option for you.

Finally, there is Captain Benjamin’s, not to be confused with The Original Benjamin’s. Captain Benjamin’s is just like the other two options on this list. They have a great food offering in the buffet, a standard menu that you can order off of if you’re not looking to eat your body weight in seafood, and a full bar so that you can complement your hush puppies with a little beer. No matter which Calabash buffet you choose – whether it is on this brief list or not – you’re going to be in for a treat. For more places to eat or other information for your Myrtle Beach trip, check out this post.

Hopefully this post answered any questions you had about Calabash style seafood. If you visit Myrtle Beach and fall in love, reach out to us for help. We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether Myrtle Beach is your next home or not, and we are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams.

Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  

No One Knows The Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

Our Picks of the 5 Best Things Myrtle Beach has to do in July

Myrtle beach is a fantastic place to visit year-round, as we talked about in our post on the best time of the year to visit Myrtle Beach. However, June and July are without a doubt the busiest time in this East Coast paradise. With so many people flocking here in July, there must be endless awesome things to do, right? The answer is a resounding yes, and this post will outline what we think are the 5 best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July.

1. Walk Around Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing

Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing are two of the most famous areas in all of the Myrtle Beach area, largely due to their popularity as shopping destinations. As a result, they’re obviously going to be on the list of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July! While shopping is what they are primarily known for, both of them have a lot more to do than just shop! If you’re looking for a more family-friendly atmosphere, head to Broadway at the Beach and check out the restaurants, shops, rides, and activities for all ages. If you want a slightly more mature (but kids are still welcome) vibe, head to Barefoot Landing, where the shops feel slightly higher end. Whichever you decide to visit, be sure to come on an empty stomach!

2. Go to a Myrtle Beach Pelicans Game

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the local minor league baseball team, and they are currently a single A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Single A baseball isn’t really known for drawing massive crowds (at least from a talent perspective) but the Myrtle Beach Pelicans really up the ante with great food, an awesome stadium, and fantastic promotions all year long. They really care about creating  a fun atmosphere for attendees, and they’ve found a lot of ways to think outside of the box to engage with fans – one of those being a bat dog instead of a bat boy! A night at the ballpark is easily one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July.

3. Spend a Day on the Beach

The city is named Myrtle Beach, and you are planning on visiting in July. How could I not include this on the list of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July! The Myrtle Beach area has a coastline spanning 60 miles, which means that you’ll always be able to find a spot to call home for the day. July is the busiest time of the year in Myrtle Beach, and as a result the crowds are at their fullest. While there is always room for more people on the beach, it is probably best to arrive earlier in the day to stake out a good spot. Be sure to bring some fun beach activities and games like Spikeball! Also, remember that drinking alcohol on any beach in South Carolina is not permitted and can earn you a fine.

4. Catch the 4^th of July Fireworks Celebrations

While the month of July is a full 31 days, the busiest week of the month is easily the 4^th of July weekend with everyone coming to take advantage of their time off of work. The whole city of Myrtle Beach knows this week will be packed every year, and they make sure to offer extra fun things to do for visitors! Some of the best 4^th of July celebrations in Myrtle Beach are the fireworks shows that take place all over the city. The best way to know where to go to see the best fireworks is to simply search online, as it changes every year. While this week is extremely packed and usually means longer wait times at restaurants and in stores, it’s absolutely worth it for the festivities that the city of Myrtle Beach hosts! Celebrating Independence Day is absolutely one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July.

5. Watch a Free Movie Under the Stars

      The Market Common Movies Under the Stars is the final thing on our list of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July. Every Friday in July, the Market Common hosts a free movie showing at dusk. While that tends to be around 9pm, they make a point of emphasizing that the start time is not 9:00pm sharp; it’s dusk, whenever that may be! Be sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair to watch the movie on. Last July they showed Onward, Wonder Woman 1984, Footloose (the original version), Jurassic Park, and Raya and the Last Dragon. For up to date information about movie showings, be sure to check out their Facebook page.

Hopefully after reading this post, you have a better idea of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach in July. It really is an incredible time to visit Myrtle Beach, and we’re sure you will love it! If you decide to visit Myrtle Beach in July, let us know!

We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether Myrtle Beach is your next home or not, and we are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams. Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  

No One Knows The Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

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Moving from Florida to South Carolina - what to expect

Separated by Georgia, these two states are not that far apart. Even though it’s not like moving all across the country, moving from Florida to South Carolina is still challenging. You’re moving to another state, changing the environment, and starting a new chapter among the people you don't know. That's why it's essential to get ready for this step even if you know it’s time to move to a new place. Apart from planning the move and organizing the travel, finding out more about South Carolina is necessary. This guide will reveal all the things you can expect after moving here. 

You can expect hot weather 

We all know Florida has terrific weather – mild winter and hot summers. But relocating from Florida to South Carolina will not bring many changes, for that matter. These states have similar climates, except it can get a bit hotter in South Carolina. Here, the winters are pretty short and mild, and due to the subtropical climate, weather can get pretty hot and humid during summer. Therefore, packing your wardrobe shouldn’t bring many changes – you can keep all your summer clothes after the move. However, if you’re moving more inland, you might need to get some warmer clothes during winter.  Compared to the coast, inland areas differ from Florida in a way they get colder days in winter – some even covered with snow. 

Prepare for lower living costs

Many people move to Florida because of the more comfortable living costs. However, South Carolina can pleasantly surprise you. Living costs are even more affordable there. For instance, food is significantly cheaper. The reason is that most of the food is grown locally, which also means fresh ingredients! Finally, the property taxes in South Carolina are one of the lowest, which is why it gets many new residents each year.

However, even though the living costs may be cheap, moving to South Carolina can be pretty costly if you're not careful. It would be best to have enough time to prepare financially for this relocation and create a specific moving budget for this purpose. Generally, if you are moving interstate, a month is enough time to get ready in terms of packing and organizing the move. Just be sure to list all the moving costs beforehand and prepare the funds you need to move successfully. If not, you risk unexpected costs, financial problems, and paying more than necessary to move into your new home. 

Plan your budget before moving from Florida to South Carolina. alt.tag: a woman packing and using a laptop for moving from Florida to South Carolina

You may become a golfer

In South Carolina, golf is a big deal. Many people enjoy playing it on their days off, and if you’re one of them – you’re going to love your new home. There are numerous fantastic golf courses in the state, attracting many tourists and bringing high income to the locals. So, if you've enjoyed playing golf in Florida, you can continue with this hobby in one of the over 350 golf courses in South Carolina.

You don’t need to say goodbye to the beaches

Florida is well-known for its beaches and fantastic weather. But don't you worry, moving to South Carolina will not take that away from you. The state has the coast with some of the most pristine beaches you can enjoy. Visit Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Hilton Head Island – these places will take your breath away. 

Amazing beaches are what Florida and South Carolina have in common. alt.tag: beach aerial view

Your kids can have excellent education

For those moving with kids or planning to have a family, South Carolina offers excellent education options. There are high-quality schools for children of all ages, so you don't need to worry about it. However, it's necessary to do the research and pick the school that suits your needs and living situation. 

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What’s necessary for moving from Florida to South Carolina?

To ensure a quick and smooth relocation, you need to do a couple of things beforehand. Here is what they are.

A solid plan 

Never underestimate the power and importance of planning the move. Even though moving in a hurry is manageable, it’s best to avoid that situation. Sit down and make a list of everything you need to do until the big day comes. It will make you more organized and your move safer. 

Reliable help

Doing everything on your own is tough, which is why hiring someone reliable to help you out is essential. Don't skip the research – make sure you only trust someone reliable with your household. Take your time and browse bestmoversinflorida.com to ensure you find the best match and a licensed expert. Once you schedule your move, you can start with other preparation steps. 

Clear space and a clear head

To be able to pack efficiently and do everything on time, clear your way. This means you need to purge your home and make sure you are left only with items you need, love and use. Get rid of all the clutter, things you’ve been saving for too long, and pieces that have no purpose in your home anymore. This will also help you clear your head and make you more productive in the moving process. 

A new home 

Finally, finding a home in South Carolina is not that difficult – you just need to know what you're looking for. Go through the best locations first, and pick your favorite according to your lifestyle and work requirements. When moving from Florida to South Carolina, you’ll notice that homes are quite affordable. Still, make sure you know how much you can afford and don’t go over that limit. Finally, if you’re not sure where to move in this state, try renting first. Try out some of your favorite locations before making a commitment and purchasing a home there. 

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meta: Not ready for moving from Florida to South Carolina? Here’s what you can expect from this relocation.

Courtesy of:  Sophia Perry

Our step by step guide to building a budget that maximizes savings so that you can save for a house!

Money can be tight sometimes. Between paying your rent, utility bills, and paying down debts, it can often feel impossible to have anything left at the end of the month to save - at least without sacrificing any glimmer of fun and entertainment you might have! Sometimes bills can pile up and expenses may feel like they are coming out of nowhere, and so many people get lost in trying to ration out their income to cover all of their financial obligations. Whether you’re a single person, a couple, or even have children, this post will be useful to help you spread out your money effectively without sacrificing your leisure and relaxation! As realtors, we understand that many people think that they can’t afford to buy property or upgrade into a nicer space, but by reconfiguring your budget, you might be surprised just how much money you can have left over!

How to Begin Planning Your Budget

1. Determine Your Take Home Pay

Life is not always easy, and it might feel like financial obligations and bills are swirling around your head constantly. How do you even begin planning a budget, knowing that you’ll need to sort through all of these different expenses? That is a question that a lot of people find themselves asking. Whether you’ve created a detailed line-item budget before or are new to itemizing your monthly costs, this post will help you to think through what exactly goes into your budget and how to go about creating a new one from scratch.

The first step in creating any budget is figuring how much money you actually have to spend or save. You need to determine your after tax, monthly income. If you already have a job, the easiest way to do this is to take a look at how much you get paid each paying cycle. If you get paid biweekly, double the amount you make each pay cycle. If you get paid on a weekly basis, quadruple it.

If you don’t already have a job and are looking to move to a new area or start a new position, things may seem less clear cut. After all, you haven’t seen your paycheck come in yet – how can you determine how much you’ll actually make after tax? As a rule of thumb, you should usually expect about 20% of your income to go toward taxes. This can vary greatly depending on location, as states and cities have their own tax rates and codes. Living in rural Kansas, you’ll pay much lower taxes than you will living in Manhattan. Some states, like Florida and Texas, have no state income tax at all! However, 20% is typically a good estimate for anywhere outside of the city limits of any metropolis in the United States.

My personal favorite method to determine my after tax income is Smartasset.com. They have a free income tax calculator that allows you to input your before tax income, your zip code, your tax return filing status (married, single, etc.), any retirement contributions, and how many personal tax exemptions you have. This calculator will then give you an itemized list of the taxes that will be deducted from your pay, as well as what your after tax salary will be per year. You can then divide that number by 12 months to determine your monthly take home pay, which is what you will use to build your budget.

2. Determine Your Preset Monthly Expenses

Now, you know how much money you have coming in every month. Where do you even begin when it comes to figuring out your expenses? Here is my method. Firstly, you need to consider the expenses that you have little to no control over. To start, think about the big, preset, recurring expenses that you pay every month. How much do you pay for rent? How much are your monthly utility bills? Do you pay monthly insurance premiums, including those for medical, dental, vision, life, car, renter’s or homeowner’s? Do you make car payments, student debt payments, or payments on any other kind of personal loan? And what about your phone, internet, and cable bills? Ironing out these items is the first step to figuring out your expenses.

Once you have hammered out each of those big items, start thinking of the smaller monthly present expenses you pay on a recurring basis. Do you have a Netflix subscription? Are you a member of any club or organization with monthly dues? Do you have a gym membership? You need to figure out what monthly subscriptions that you have and add them to the list of expenses to build into your budget.

After you have considered these preset, recurring expenses, both big and small, it is time to move onto the next step; annual preset expenses. Do you have annual credit card fees? Do you need to pay dues for a homeowner’s association (HOA)? Do you have any other kind of annual maintenance fees? Figure out all of these numbers, divide them by twelve, and add those monthly figures into the list of expenses for your budget.

3. Configure Your Flexible Monthly Expenses

Now, you have figured out all of the preset, unchanging expenses. What comes next?

It is time to consider the expenses that you have a little more control over. I like to break this section into a few categories: personal care, entertainment, groceries and living supplies, and eating out. What exactly falls under each of these categories?

Personal Care

Under the personal care category, think about money you pay each month to take care of yourself or your appearance. How many haircuts do you get, and how much do they cost? What about getting your nails done? Or on a deeper level, do you pay for any counseling or advising? These expenses are much more under your control within the budget. If money is tight, you can cut down the number of haircuts and manicures that you get. I am very particular about my hair, for example, and I tend to get a haircut every two weeks. If money gets tight, I can easily cut that down to just one per month, or maybe go every three weeks instead. This is one of the most flexible budget categories, in my opinion, but it is usually a fairly small percentage of the budget and has less impact on your overall expenses.

Entertainment

Whether you like sporting events, concerts, going to the movies, or investing in your hobbies, everyone deserves some entertainment. After all, you work hard for your money; shouldn’t you be able to enjoy it? You absolutely should! But this needs to be within reason, of course. While there might be a lot of great artists performing in your area this month, it might be best to pick just one – or maybe only go every other month.

The other option here is to aim for the cheaper tickets. If you are a baseball fan, for example, and your team is playing several nights each week, you might feel inclined to go to several games per month. This can definitely work! But maybe you’ll be better off opting for the $20 ticket and forgoing some concessions, if need be. Either way, this is one of the most flexible budget categories that you have, because if money is tight, you can eliminate this entire category, if needed. This one tends to be a bigger component in the budget than personal care and can have a big impact on your bottom line.

Groceries and Living Supplies

Firstly, what do I even mean by living supplies? By living supplies, I mean things that you use around the house that aren’t food, but you might grab at the grocery store while you’re there. This could be things like shampoo and toothpaste, cleaning supplies, or pet supplies, if that is relevant to you. These expenses actually add up and definitely need to be considered in any budget.

Additionally, you need to consider your groceries. While this bill does fluctuate, you can probably see that it comes out to be roughly the same every month barring those times you decided to treat yourself to a steak dinner and a bottle of wine! While this monthly expense tends to be roughly similar each month, there is certainly wiggle room with which you can save some money. Buying generic brands instead of name brands, shopping at a budget grocery store instead of Whole Foods, and avoiding luxury food items are some easy ways to cut down the grocery bill every month, and ultimately create more flex room in your budget.

Eating Out

This one is simple. Who doesn’t enjoy a nice meal out? Dining out is a great way to spend quality time with loved ones and reward yourself for all of your hard work. This category is also hard to cut from your budget, as sometimes you don’t have any choice other than eating out! This category includes more than just nice dinners out; It also includes any money you spend on your morning coffee, the quick bites you grab for lunch, or the snack you grab on your way home from work.

While eating out is practically inevitable – we can’t cook every single meal and pack every single lunch – there are still ways to minimize how much this category costs you each month. Emphasizing eating at home instead of eating out can save you hundreds of dollars per month depending on your current dining habits, and this is a lot of money at the end of the year!

4. Use Monthly Budget Leftover for Future Savings

This category is what budgeting is all about. Saving is so crucial, and the earlier you start, the better off you’ll be. If you’re looking to buy a house, you’re going to need enough saved up for a down payment, and that is not chump change! Even if you aren’t looking to buy a house at this time, saving as much as possible now will come in handy later when you do make that decision to buy your home!

When it comes to savings, it is important to set goals. What exactly do you want to save for? Do you want to buy a car? Build your emergency fund? Contribute to your retirement? Or best of all, save up to go on vacation? Whatever it is that you want to do, it is important to figure how much you need to save and set savings goals to build into your budget. For example, to save $5,000 for an emergency fund over one year, you’ll need to save a bit over $400 per month. By going out for dinner only once or twice per month, you can save a hundred or two. By cutting back on the entertainment budget you can save another couple hundred dollars. Then by cutting down on the personal care budget, you can pad that savings a little bit more!

The average down payment on a house in the United States is five or six percent, meaning that a two hundred fifty-thousand-dollar house will require about thirteen thousand dollars for a down payment. If you haven’t been saving and decide you want to buy a house, that means you might need to save several years before you can afford the down payment. This is why it is best to outline your savings goals and start saving as soon as possible, that way when you decide to make big financial decisions or get caught with a big bill like buying a new water heater, you’re prepared.

Savings Categories to Consider

Emergency Fund

This one is extremely important. You never know what could happen, and it is best to be prepared for anything. Whether it is some sort of unexpected hospital bill, a new water heater, or a new roof, having money saved up for an emergency is extremely important and should be one of the highest priority savings categories for you. How much to save for an emergency fund is completely up to you and the cost of living where you are, but several thousand dollars is a great place to start.

Retirement Fund

So many young people neglect their retirement fund. People think that they can always start saving later and that they have plenty of time. After all, you probably will not retire for another 30 to 40 years, right? This is absolutely the wrong approach. The earlier you start saving for retirement, the more you’ll have when you retire, and even better, the earlier you’ll be able to retire! Also, if your employer offers a 401(k)-matching program, you should do the best you can to save the maximum that they will be willing to match, because whatever they match is free money!

Vacation Fund

For most people, this is a lower priority savings category, but still an important one! Vacationing can be expensive and saving up throughout the year to be able to go to the destination of your dreams can be a very rewarding and financially prudent decision. Between the costs of flights, accommodation, food, and activities, vacations are one area where people spend a big portion of their income every year. Saving up gradually throughout the year is one way to ensure you don’t overspend while on vacation.

Home Buying Fund

As realtors, we would be remiss if we excluded this category! As we mentioned before, buying a home is a very big decision and an even bigger financial commitment. Additionally, to even be able to buy a house, you will need to have saved up enough to make the down payment. Starting earlier rather than later will ensure that you are already financially ready to buy as soon as you make the decision, rather than needing to spend the next several years saving up. If you are curious about reasons to buy instead of to rent, be sure to check out our post with the top reasons that buying is better than renting in 2021!

Hopefully this post answered some of your questions about how to create a budget, especially as someone looking to buy a home. We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether Myrtle Beach is your next home or not, and we are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams.

Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  No One Knows The Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

Our honest advice as to why buying may be better than renting in 2021

Buying a home is a big decision that comes with what is probably the biggest financial commitment you'll make in your life. This can be very intimidating and might make you wonder if it's truly worth it. In some situations renting is the better option, but many people who think they should rent don't realize that buying may actually be the better option for them! In this post we'll provide our top 6 reasons to buy instead of rent in 2021.

1. Equity

You work hard for your money. Whether you work from home or commute to work every day, we all know that we could all always use some extra cash. If that’s the case, why are we willing to throw away money at rent every month? When you pay rent to a landlord, you earn nothing but the right to live in that space. Essentially, your money is buying you a service and not a property! The $1500 you pay every month leave you with nothing gained at the end of the month. When you pay that same money towards a mortgage, you are slowly but surely gaining ownership, or equity, of the property that you’re paying for. Think about it. $1500 per month is equal to $18,000 per year. Wouldn’t it be great if that $18,000 provided you with a place to live while also slowly giving you ownership of it? That sounds like a pretty good reason to buy instead of rent, doesn’t it?

2.     2. Property Value Appreciation

We just talked about equity and how you might as well make your rent money go towards something that you eventually own. Another benefit of ownership is that you are entitled to whatever value growth the property experiences! In a place like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for example, property values have gone up by over 15% in the last year according to Zillow. If you own your home instead of renting it, your property investment can grow substantially over time. You may be wondering why that matters, considering that you’re newly buying the property, and therefore you don’t plan on selling your new home any time soon! While that may be true, owning that increase in value is great for your credit, affecting any future loans you take out. Additionally, you never know where life will take you, and if for some reason you need money in a pinch, you can sell your house and use any gains in the property value. The potential thousands of dollars you can gain over time just by owning your property are enough to put this way up on the list of reasons to buy instead of rent in 2021.

3.     3. Tax Breaks

Many people don’t know about this one, but being a homeowner comes with many different tax perks. For example, in these pandemic years where everyone is working from home, did you know that you may be entitled to a tax credit if you use part of your home as your dedicated workspace? This is only one example. Many other facets of home ownership – like insurance and property taxes, for example – can be written off at tax time. This can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars every year! As a renter you are entitled to basically none of that, making this a clear reason to buy instead of rent in 2021.

4.     4. Mortgage Interest Rates

The first three reasons on this list are true in any year. The fourth reason to buy instead of rent in 2021 is actually specific to 2021, and that is the comparatively low mortgage rates on the market right now. The current average mortgage interest rate in 2021 is lower than the average mortgage interest rates of recent years. Why is this important? A mortgage is probably the biggest contract and largest debt you’ll ever take on in your life. Mortgages tend to be decades long commitments. When you sign a mortgage, your interest rate is fixed, regardless of what happens in the market. This means that regardless of inflation rates, your mortgage payment will not change over time.

5.     5. Stability

This reason to buy instead of rent has a lot to do with the previous one. When you sign a lease, you are typically committing to 12 months of payments. In terms of flexibility, this is great! It means that if something happens and you need to move, you’re off the hook after the end of the year. However, if you’re looking to stay in the same place for a while, annual leases carry one huge downside; your rent can increase every year at the landlord’s discretion. Landlords need to keep up with inflation, and it only makes sense that what you pay should go up in lockstep with inflation every year. When you buy, however, this isn’t the case. When I said before that your payment never changes, I mean it literally never changes. If you commit to $1500 per month over the next 30 years today, you’ll still be paying $1500 per month 30 years from now. While the idea of a 30 year financial commitment may be scary, I think I can make it look a little bit better for you. Let’s pretend that 30 years ago – in 1991 – you signed a mortgage for $1500 per month. That means that this year, in your final year of payments, you are still paying $1500 per months. The difference? With inflation, $1500 in 1991 is worth over $3000 now, meaning that you are paying half the value now compared to what you signed up for. That’s a pretty good deal!

6.     6. Control

Last but not least, control is the final reason to buy instead of rent in 2021. “No nail holes in the wall.” “Don’t paint anything.” “Oh, the shower drain is clogged? I’ll have someone come in a few days.” Do any of those lines sound familiar? When you rent a property, you are at the mercy of the landlord. They have the final say over what happens in their own property, after all, and you need to play by their rules. Sometimes, this just isn’t fun! Maybe you really want to mount a TV on the living room wall. Or perhaps your first child just started walking and you’d like to put in a fence to make sure they don’t run into the street. Or maybe, just maybe, you decide you really don’t love the canary yellow paint in the master bedroom that you thought you’d be able to put up with. Whatever the case, if you are renting a property, you do not have the autonomy to make these decisions for yourself. You need to get everything approved by the landlord! Some landlords and tenants have great relationships, but we all know that isn’t always the case. When you own your property, you are the boss. If you can afford it, you can do it!

That wraps up our list of the top 6 reasons to buy instead of rent in 2021. This list was by no means exhaustive, but it gives you a quick idea just how much better buying can be for you instead of renting. Hopefully you learned a thing or two and feel more empowered to take the next step in your home buying process!

We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether the Grand Strand is your next home or not, and we are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams. Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  No One Knows the Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

The answer to this question, as well as a look into what the weather is like year-round in this East Coast hotspot.

Over the past decade, Myrtle Beach and its surrounding area have really solidified their position as one of the best beach areas on the East Coast. From busy downtown Myrtle Beach to the more tranquil, family-friendly Surfside and beyond, the Grand Strand, South Carolina area has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, a longer vacation, or a new place to call home, the Myrtle Beach area belongs near the top of your list of places to check out.

While the area is very popular all year round, but many people find themselves asking “what is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?” If you’ve been wondering about the best time to visit Myrtle Beach, or maybe about Myrtle Beach weather at its coldest in the winter and hottest in the summer, this post is for you. We’re going to do our best to answer any question you have about the best time to visit Myrtle Beach, the weather in Myrtle Beach, and more.

What is the Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach?

The answer to this question comes in three parts, as it depends completely on what you hope to do on your trip to Myrtle Beach! Keep in mind that Myrtle Beach has a lot to offer in addition to the beach itself, and this may play a big role in what time of the year you decide to visit! Also, if you’re considering buying property in Myrtle Beach, it may be a good idea to visit both during the peak season and the low season to get a feel for how Myrtle Beach feels at different times of the year. The overall feel of Myrtle Beach changes drastically throughout the year depending on the current season – but all in good ways! Here are our top three recommendations for the best time to visit Myrtle Beach.

Visiting Myrtle Beach in June or Early July

This option is the best for any of our readers that love to sunbathe! This is definitely warmest, sunniest time of the year, and visiting Myrtle Beach in June or early July is sure to help you get the suntan that you’re looking for. The weather in Myrtle Beach at this time of the year is absolutely beautiful, and it also tends to be before the rainy season begins, meaning less chance of a rainy day on your trip.

There are two potential downsides to visiting Myrtle Beach at this time of the year – especially right after school lets out and over the 4^th of July weekend. Firstly, the water is not especially warm yet. While the weather is at its finest, the water is still warming up. It’s definitely swimmable and a very refreshing escape from the sun, but it isn’t quite as nice as it is just a few weeks later. If you are the type of person who really likes to hang out in the warm water, maybe waiting a little bit longer would be more up your alley. Secondly, this is by far the busiest time of the year in Myrtle Beach, and you might have a hard time getting a table at dinner or get stuck in lines during various activities. Just like with the ocean water temperature, waiting another month may be a better option for you, depending what you are looking to do!

Visiting Myrtle Beach in Late July and August

Depending on who you ask, this is the total sweet spot for visiting Myrtle Beach. The water is very warm and comfortable, the weather is still beautiful, and the crowds have slightly diminished. While it will still be busy, it shouldn’t be nearly as busy as it is in the earlier part of the summer. Visiting in the second half of August can lead to even thinner crowds, as most kids are back in school and family vacation season has come to a close.

The reason they say that this is a sweet spot is because you experience a little bit of the best from each of the other recommendations on this list. The weather is still very beautiful, and the water is even better than it is in June. Additionally, the crowds have also thinned out a bit. While it will still be busy at this time, it should not be as insanely busy as it is during the earlier part of the summer. The downside of waiting until August, however, is that the rainy season is starting to pick up, and as a result there is a better chance that you will experience a rainy day or two during your trip.

Visiting Myrtle Beach in September and October

Remember earlier when I said that there is a lot more to do in Myrtle Beach than just visiting the actual beach? Visiting in September and early October is the prime time for those of you that care less about the beach and more about the food, shopping, and events that the area has to offer. By this time, the crowds have really diminished, and the area is much more relaxing and peaceful. You’ll almost never have an issue getting a table immediately for dinner, traffic isn’t bad at all, and you can have a much more tranquil experience all around.

While the weather will not be nearly as sunny and beautiful as it is during the summer, the weather in Myrtle Beach in the autumn is still quite nice. Also, the ocean water is still relatively warm, making swimming a very viable option. If you’re looking for a time to get away from the crowds while still partaking in all that Myrtle Beach has to offer, September could very well be the best bet for you. If this isn’t enough to convince you, there’s more; hotel rates in Myrtle Beach tend to drop significantly during the off-season, meaning that you’ll have more options of where to stay and ultimately pay less!

What is the weather like at different times of the year in Myrtle Beach?

Being in the middle of the East Coast, the weather is pretty consistent for most of the year, meaning that the range between the average high and average low throughout the year isn’t very wide. While Myrtle Beach does have four distinct seasons, the weather tends to stay warmer a little bit longer due to its positioning on the coast. Once April begins, the weather tends to stay in the 60s, and it doesn’t really drop back below that until November. In the peak of the summer, the average high temperature is in the mid to high 80s. While winters can definitely be chilly, snow and freezing weather are extremely rare. Most years see less than an inch of snowfall. You’re more likely to have a January day in the 60s than you are to have one below freezing!

Is it cold in October in Myrtle Beach?

Many people wonder if Myrtle Beach is worth visiting year-round or if it is only worth a trip in the peak of the summer. Like I wrote before in the section about the best times to visit Myrtle Beach, September, October, and even November are actually some of the best times of the year to visit Myrtle Beach! Generally speaking, Myrtle Beach is not cold in October at all. On some days it can get chilly in the evening, but typically the weather is still nice enough to where you can spend some time on the beach. The ocean is still pretty warm at this time of the year, too, making it a really opportune time to visit. As long as you pack a sweater or light jacket for the evenings and early mornings, you will have nothing to worry about!

Events in Myrtle Beach throughout the year

While late summer is the peak season for beachgoers, there are reasons to visit Myrtle Beach throughout the entire year! The area is the host of several big, annual festivals and events, which can fill up an itinerary at any point in the year. Some even draw big international crowds! Here is a brief glimpse into some of the most popular events that take place throughout the year in Myrtle Beach.

The Myrtle Beach International Film Festival

The Myrtle Beach International Film Festival (MBIFF) is an annual event taking place every April. This event is widely regarded as one of the best film festivals in the entire world, and the movie lineup tends to include films from very diverse genres. While the festival is traditionally always hosted in April, this year’s festival was bumped to the fall because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The World Famous Blue Crab Festival

The World Famous Blue Crab Festival is a massive event that draws tens of thousands of visitors every year, and has been occurring annually since 1981. This family-friendly event is a crab lover’s dream, with many vendors set up to sell their local dishes. While the 2021 World Famous Blue Crab Festival has already passed, the 2022 World Famous Blue Crab Festival will take place on May 15^th and 16^th from 9am to 5pm, and admission is only $5! While the ticket price does not include any food, it does provide access to the live music that takes place on the beach. Additionally, there are normally over 250 local vendors selling their products and services.

The Little River Shrimpfest

The Little River Shrimpfest is autumn’s version of the World Famous Blue Crab Festival; both festivals take place in the same town of Little River, South Carolina, just north of Myrtle Beach. The Little River Shrimpfest takes place every October and offers up live jazz entertainment on two different stages, over one hundred local vendors, and a wide array of incredible food options. If you plan on visiting Myrtle Beach during October, this festival can’t be missed. This year’s Little River Shrimpfest will take place on October 9^th and 10^th from 9am to 5pm.

The Carolina Country Music Fest

If you are a fan of country music, you will love the Carolina Country Music Fest. This annual event is the largest outdoor country music festival on the East Coast, and they bring in huge country music stars every year. The 2021 Carolina Country Music Fest was headlined by Luke Combs, Eric Church, Darius Rucker, and Jake Owen. The festival takes place over a four day period every year, and event passes for next year’s festival range from $179 for general admission to $1199 for the super VIP festival pass. This festival is an annual June event, and the 2022 Carolina Country Music Fest will take place from June 9 to 12.

Hopefully this post answered your questions about the best time of the year to visit Myrtle Beach and the weather throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to plan a vacation or buy a home, it’s important that you realize that Myrtle Beach is more than just a summertime destination. There are advantages to visiting at different times throughout the year, and different months provide different experiences and opportunities.

We at The Boyd Team are always here to help you figure out whether Myrtle Beach is your next home or not, and as Myrtle Beach Realtors are committed to helping you find the right property for your needs and dreams. Any question that you have about moving to the area and finding your dream home by the beach is our pleasure to answer. Feel free to send us an email at eddie@boydteam.com or text or call us at (843) 222-8566, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Being true natives of the Grand Strand and Horry County and with over 25 years of experience in the local real estate market, whether buying or selling, we can help you make your dreams a reality.  No One Knows The Grand Strand Better! Trust, Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism, You Can Count On!

Post written by Greg

Featured image

Alt-tag: An oceanfront property

What You Need to Know Before Buying Oceanfront Property

Most of us fantasize about having a house on the beach. To wake up to the sound of the waves, walk down the beach, and swim in the ocean. It all sounds lovely, doesn’t it? But, are you sure that a beach house is really what you want or need? To help you decide, here is what you need to know before buying oceanfront property. 

You are investing

When you buy oceanfront property, you are investing. A house on the beach is not only a great place to live. If you stay there only from time to time, it’s also a good place to rent. Tourists are always looking to rent nice houses as close to the beach as possible. Not to mention that these properties tend to grow in value over time. So, if you find an oceanfront house at a reasonable price, don’t think twice. It is, first of all, a great investment. 

Do some research

Before deciding to buy oceanfront property, do some research. Make sure you are choosing the best location for your future home. For example, check out the neighborhood. Is it a good place to raise children or to own a pet? See if there are schools, hospitals, and shops nearby. Furthermore, ensure you have easy access to the ocean. That is the main purpose of owning an oceanfront property, after all. 

Insurance costs

The cost of insurance is also what you need to know before buying oceanfront property. Generally, waterfront properties have higher costs for insurance because of the flood risk. Moreover, some properties require up to three types of insurance. For instance, one for wind, the second for flood, and the third as a general hazard policy. That is why you should check the requirements and costs before signing a contract.

Caption: Buying a beach house also means you are buying a dream.

Alt-tag: Several oceanfront properties

Have a home inspection

To make sure you are buying a secure home, the best thing you can do is to call in a home inspector. Oceanfront houses can easily flood, and water can damage the foundation or the electrical system. Not to mention the mold that can appear and wood structures that can require repair. A home inspector can tell you if there were any floods and how often you can expect them to happen. Knowing all there is to know about the state of the property is essential before buying.

Hidden costs

When buying oceanfront property, people make the mistake of not researching if there are hidden costs. We already mentioned insurance, but there are also other aspects to take into consideration. For example, you need to find out who owns the shoreline. Sometimes, the municipality owns it, so you need a lease contract. Moreover, you need to pay property taxes, which are usually more expensive for waterfront homes.

The property’s connection to utilities is another example of potential hidden costs. Because some oceanfront houses are in isolated areas, they may require connection to electricity, cable, or water. Therefore, find out if there is access to public utilities, and if not, how much it would cost you to bring these services to your area. Also, you need road access to your future home. Once you embark on your long-distance move, you will need help getting your belongings there, so make sure you have an already built road. The cost of building one can be very high and might not be worth the investment. 

Caption: Imagine how wonderful it would be to wake up to the sound of the waves.

Alt-tag: Waves coming towards an oceanfront property

An oceanfront property means responsibility

Another common mistake people make before buying a property is not checking if they will be part of the homeowners’ association. Owning an oceanfront house is not only a dream come true but also a responsibility. For instance, you might have to maintain the property in a specific manner. That can include the house’s color, putting up a fence, and taking care of the bulkhead. Equally important is to know if other property owners in the area can have access to the ocean through your property. It wouldn’t be nice to wake up to unwanted visitors on your piece of land. 

Working with a real estate agent

Working with an expert will make your oceanfront property hunt easier. Because of the high value of such properties, having a real estate agent working for you will help you find the right home at the right price. Ask your real estate agent about the neighborhood, local businesses, and future development plans in the area. Also, a good agent can give you important information about flood incidence. For example, how frequently they occur and the worst damage you should prepare for. 

Get to know your neighbors

When it comes to moving, your future neighbors are a fantastic source of information on all you need to know before buying oceanfront property. They should know everything about the area. Firstly, ask them how long they have lived there and what issues they encountered. Secondly, inquire whether they live there all year round and if they know anything about your property. And lastly - is there anything they wish they knew before moving there? All this information can help you decide if that property is the one you should buy. 

Caption: Your dream home is waiting for you.

Alt-tag: A house with a terrace overlooking the ocean

Moving into your dream house

After all the research, you found the perfect oceanfront property. Your dream house is waiting for you to move in. All you have left to do is to find reliable movers to help you relocate. To make the best decision, experts from verifiedmovers.com recommend comparing multiple moving companies. This way, you make sure you receive the best services tailored to your needs. Let the professionals do all the hard work while you enjoy your first swim in the ocean. 

In conclusion

Buying oceanfront property is not all fun and games. There are serious matters that you should look into before making any decisions. For example, there are possible hidden costs. Not only should you prepare for them, but you should know about them in advance. To make sure you avoid unpleasant situations, follow our tips, and you should be able to enjoy your new home in no time! 

Meta description: If you are planning to purchase your dream house on the beach, here is what you need to know before buying oceanfront property.

Images used: 

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Featured image.

Alt-tag: Signs it's time to move to a new place

Signs it's time to move to a new place

Our homes are our safe havens. No matter how big, small, cluttered, or in dire need of repairs they might be, they are a part of us because we grew there, creating some great memories. Still, sometimes other factors influence our quality of life, and fighting them won't do any good. The sentimental value should always be taken into account, but if there are many signs it's time to move to a new place, you might want to reconsider your living conditions.

You don't know what to do with a big, empty home

Having an empty nest is something most families face sooner or later. Therefore, not knowing what to do with all that space is often tricky. In some cases, you can always sublet a room or turn the basement into a small apartment, but such an endeavor requires a considerable investment. And also there is always the fact that you will have to live with a stranger. If you love your privacy, renting out your home or selling it might be a good choice. Having to maintain big homes on your own is very demanding. So maybe it's time to finally follow your dreams and buy the beach house you've always wanted to.

Caption: You've been working and providing for others your whole life; maybe it's time to slow down and enjoy life with your loved ones.
Alt-tag: An older couple on a beach.

Demand for a bigger home

Opposite to downsizing, growing families always struggle with the lack of space. When your kids are small, room sharing is always an option. But as they grow, the need for privacy and commodities should be respected. If your budget is tight, you can always opt for more affordable suburbs or places out of town. However, before you find a new place to call home, check the nearby amenities. The size of the home does not always matter if the location has safety concerns, poor transportation, and schooling options.

Money is getting tight

Living in areas with high monthly expenses is never easy. To keep up with such a lifestyle, you need to have a great job with the possibility of advancement. Even though you may love your neighborhood and city, you can no longer live with constant money struggles. The rent, the utilities, and even transportation is getting more expensive by the day, and your current job can't support it. In such cases, it's important to know your limits. Either it's time for a significant job upgrade or moving to more affordable housing options. Living in a smaller apartment is not such a bad thing, as long as you know how to make enough space for your belongings. If you want to be a part of big city life, adapting to different living conditions is necessary, and there are some excellent hacks online for creating more storage space at home, so be sure to check them out.

Caption: Always struggling with money is one of the signs it's time to move to a new place.
Alt-tag: Worried couple with money issues.

You have the means for neighborhood upgrade

With better job options comes the opportunity to take your lifestyle to the next level. That means that you can finally afford to live in a neighborhood of your liking. Moving to your current place might have been a thing of necessity, but now that you're finally financially stable, maybe it's time for an upgrade! Relocating to a new, better place is always good, but it's even better if you can call it your own. Buying an apartment or a house is always an excellent investment since the real estate market always finds a way to bounce back, even after hard times. Therefore, having some saved money or being pre-approved for a loan is one of the signs it's time to move to a new place.

You're sick of fast city life

When we are young, we want to be part of the hot, trendy city communities. But as we grow older, living in a big city can be overwhelming. All the noise, high costs of living, busy traffic, and all downsides of such a fast life can influence your mental well-being. No one can blame you for wanting to get away to a cozier community, where everyday stressful city life issues won't find you. The best thing is, you don't have to run for the mountains and make drastic changes. Simple relocation to a calm suburb will do the trick. You will stay close to your job and friends and yet have your desired peace and rest.

Caption: When the environment gets too hard to handle, it's time to move to a new place.
Alt-tag: Stress as one of the signs it's time to move to a new place.

Your home requires serious renovation work

Owning and maintaining a house is never easy. Every home, and especially old ones, requires constant care and upgrade. If you neglect this basic maintenance, all of a sudden, a serious investment for home improvement might be necessary. But you should know that quite often, renovation costs can exceed the home market value, so think well before making this decision and weigh your options carefully. Sometimes it might be better to sell the house and move to a new property.

You always wanted to live elsewhere

You know that feeling of nostalgia for someplace you once visited? Or do you just feel the longing for a city, country, or continent you've never been to before? This far sickness, also known as "fernweh", is more common than you think. And yet, only a few decide to listen to this feeling and move to a place of their dreams. If you are one of the brave ones and the longing only becomes stronger in time, maybe it's time to explore it. Moving to a new place temporarily or permanently can open many doors. Especially if you're "following your guts".

Conclusion

Even though relocating to a new place might be challenging, it's important to improve your living space and open the doors to new possibilities. Most likely, you will get to experience this bittersweet moment more than once in your life. These signs it's time to move to another place can always be seen because there is always a place for improvement, whether it comes to buying a new home or adapting to new life circumstances.

Meta description: Signs it's time to move to a new place are many. If you notice and accept them on time, you will significantly improve your life.

Photos used:

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/sad-ethnic-female-leaning-forward-on-railing-of-terrace-and-looking-down-6798565/

Alt: Skyline of Myrtle beach that makes you think about moving to Myrtle Beach with your family

Moving to Myrtle Beach with your family

Relocating from one city in the United States to another may be both an exciting and stressful event. Perhaps your employer is transferring you, and you don't have much say in the matter. Some military families are well-versed in the process! In some circumstances, you desire and require a change. Perhaps you've spent your entire life in a metropolis like New York, Chicago, or Philadelphia, where you've endured the cold and snow year after year. In January and February, you'll do everything to wake up to some warm weather. Maybe it's your spouse that insists on a change for the family. Whatever the case may be, you're not wasting any time in moving on to the next phase, which is investigating. If you are thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach with your family, you will find out why it is such a great idea!

One of your pals suggested Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as a possible destination. You'd never heard of it before, but after doing some research, it rapidly caught your interest. Myrtle Beach is one of the few places in the United States where real estate prices are still affordable to people with average incomes. The more you learn about the area, the more you will want to visit. So, here are the top things to know before moving to Myrtle Beach with your family.

Caption: Myrtle Beach is a fantastic destination to move to!

Alt: Myrtle Beach and the ocean

Things to keep in mind before moving

Nothing beats thorough research when it comes to getting to Myrtle Beach. After all, relocating to a city is a far cry from visiting for a few days. It is critical to come to terms with everyday living realities such as healthcare, community, education, and taxation. There are numerous real estate alternatives and neighborhoods from which to pick. If you are buying an apartment or a house, there is a lot to consider.

Where you reside connects to a lot of the other thoughts you've had. You will require a straightforward evaluation of Myrtle Beach as a permanent residence, not just a holiday destination. There are countless compelling reasons why so many people call Myrtle Beach home, whether they are retirees or raising a young family. Just take a look at a lot of excellent properties in Myrtle Beach.

The people of Myrtle Beach

There have been significant changes in career opportunities in the country recently as a result of the coronavirus. Working from home is altering our perceptions of where we live! One of the major shifts in many large organizations' is work-from-home policies. Many employees now have the option of working from home or another location. Moreover, many employees have cut their commute, giving them more time with their families and leisure activities.

This shift in employment has brought a slew of newcomers to the area. You can find all generations living in Myrtle Beach now. If you have young children or teenagers in your family, they should have no trouble making friends. They won't be bored at all at the beach! 

Southern hospitality is an identifiable feature of the Myrtle Beach community. Impatience from the big cities is pushed aside by genuine hospitality. It's no surprise that nearly 15 million visitors every year leave with big smiles!

Caption: The people of Myrtle Beach are famous for their hospitality!

Alt: Aerial view of the Myrtle Beach coast

Healthcare

If exceptional doctors and state-of-the-art medical treatment were not available, a large number of retirees would not be coming here. Just like young professionals would not transfer their families to discover that the education was subpar.

Myrtle Beach has some of the top medical facilities in the country, with technology that rivals that of any large US city. Grand Strand Medical Center, commonly known as GSMC, is the area's focal point, with over six major facilities. It is known for its cardiology, heart surgery, and stroke care.

Education

There are many charter and private schools in the area, as well as an exceptional public school system with more than 45000 students! An excellent school, however, is more than just a gorgeous campus. Many college students seek the ideal institution because they enjoy the beach, mild weather, and a close-knit community.

Professors who care about each individual student, a safe environment, and inexpensive tuition are among the top priorities for undergraduates.

The good news is that top-ranked area universities such as Coastal Carolina University, Horry Georgetown Technical College, and Miller-Motte College frequently fulfill all of those criteria! These colleges have progressed from small beginnings to become nationally renowned universities. The education opportunities make moving to Myrtle Beach with your family very desirable!

Entertainment

You don't have to search far to find entertainment! Throughout the year, there are a variety of different events and festivals. The city buzzes with activity thanks to the Myrtle Beach Skywheel, Ripley's Aquarium, Hollywood Wax Museum, Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum, and several sideshows.

Take a stroll along the coastal promenade while breathing the fresh sea breeze. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a handcrafted waffle cone, or simply sit on a park seat and people-watch.

Caption: The coastal promenade and the fresh sea breeze are amazing in Myrtle Beach.

Alt: The ocean in sunset

Tips for moving to Myrtle Beach with your family

Every relocation is different, but they all have some common traits. Therefore, here are some tips you will need to organize your move.

Hire professional movers

Because of the great opportunities and entertainment, Myrtle Beach is a great place to raise a family. But, you will need a good moving company to take care of the job, and that will also require some investigation.  You can begin by browsing through Best Long Distance Movers database. Then proceed on checking online reviews and contacting the companies you have selected. Finally, get the moving quotes to get a feel of the process and pick the best value for money. By having reputable movers by your side, the process will go much more smoothly and quickly. 

Pack for a warmer climate

Packing is a crucial part of moving to a coastal place. The weather in places like Myrtle Beach is usually hot. That means you will not need a bunch of winter clothes. You can donate the excess items, or you can organize a garage sale to earn some money. The fewer items you pack, the cheaper the move will be!

Set a long-distance moving budget

After you hire a moving company, you will have to calculate your budget. Long-distance moves are particularly heavy on your wallet, so make sure you put everything on paper. The best thing to do is to make a spending plan that you will follow. By having everything planned out, you will avoid unexpected expenses and save some money. 

In conclusion

Myrtle Beach is not only a tourist spot on the beach but also a great place to live and raise a family! While relocating is a stressful process, it is well worth it when that is your final destination! So, if you are thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach with your family, know that you won’t make a mistake.

Photos used:

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Meta: If you are considering moving to Myrtle Beach with your family, you will find everything you need to know right here!      www.BoydTeam.com