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We were both born and raised along the Grand Strand and know the entire Horry County, so no matter what style of home you are looking for or what area you prefer, we can help you! Please give us a call and let us help you make your dream a reality! 843-222-8566.
Home buyers may be finding a window of opportunity to lock in lower rates. Mortgage rates fell this week, after several weeks of moderating, Freddie Mac reports.
“Mortgage rates declined this week amid a steep sell-off in U.S. stocks,” says Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “This week’s rate reaction to the volatile stock market is a welcome relief to prospective home buyers who have recently experienced rising rates and rising home prices.”
Freddie Mac reports the following national averages with mortgage rates for the week ending Dec. 6:
30-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 4.75 percent, with an average 0.5 point, down from last week’s 4.81 percent average. Last year at his time, 30-year rates averaged 3.94 percent.
15-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 4.21 percent, with an average 0.4 point, falling from last week’s 4.25 percent average. A year ago, 15-year rates averaged 3.36 percent.
5-year hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages: averaged 4.07 percent, with an average 0.3 point, a decrease from last week’s 4.12 percent average. A year ago, 5-year ARMs averaged 3.36 percent.
Luxury Care Communities for Seniors Surge in Demand
December 10, 2018
The retirement community is getting a dramatic luxury makeover. Upscale communities are sprouting up across the country, offering personal care for residents—from independent living to nursing assistance—and amenities that rival exclusive hotels and high-end cruise ships, The New York Timesreports. Developers are investing billions in these high-end senior care complexes.
The market potential could be massive: 20 percent of baby boomers—or about 15 million Americans—have saved enough to afford private continuing care. Further, about 10,000 people turn 65 years old every day. “Baby boomers are being a very demanding customer,” Stephen Maag, director of residential communities for LeadingAge, an association in the aging industry, told the Times. The industry must respond “to a consumer that has pushed back on everything they’ve touched in the last 60 years,” he adds.
One such community, called Fountaingrove Lodge in California’s Sonoma County, boasts a restaurant, wine cellar, spa, bank, fitness center, movie theater, and a large outdoor swimming pool. Entrance fees for two-bedroom bungalows, the largest units at Fountaingrove Lodge, can reach about $1 million, with monthly charges of more than $6,000.
In Dallas, construction has started on the $140 million Ventana by Buckner luxury retirement complex and is expected to be completed next year. It will include concierge-level services and fine dining. The entrance fees will range from $400,000 to $1.8 million. Monthly charges could be up to $11,000. Already, 81 percent of the units are reserved. The mission is to “completely treat everyone like a V.I.P.,” Rick Pruett, the complex’s executive director, told the Times. “[It has] all those little touches like you’d see at some of the finer operating hotel chains and resort centers.”
Related Companies of New York has partnered with Atria Senior Living to own and operate $3 billion of luxury housing for seniors in cities such as New York, San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington, D.C. The plan for the company’s senior complexes is to offer rentals, instead of homes for sale, and not charge entrance fees.
But some officials are growing concerned that there is no real estate agent advocating for the buyer as they move into such senior residences. The industry is not federally regulated, and contracts can be complex. Further, some of the entrance fees may go back to the residents’ estates upon death or refunded if they leave. But getting funds returned could be a lengthy wait and may even require legal action, experts say.
Expect to see more coral hues in home design next year. Pantone, the corporation known for its paint forecasts, unveiled “Living Coral” as its 2019 Color of the Year. The color, an orange shade with golden undertones, embodies “warmth and comfort,” Pantone says.
Living Coral can make a bold statement as an accent color, and forecasters expect to see it in more shag rugs, cozy blankets, and upholstery to “create a warm, comforting, and nurturing feeling in the home.” “With its ebullient nature, Pantone’s Living Coral adds a dramatic pop of color to any room setting, whether in decorative accessories, tabletops, or on the wall,” Pantone said in a statement.
Living Coral succeeds Pantone’s 2018 Color of the Year, Ultra Violet. Other paint companies have been offering their picks for the 2019 Color of the Year. Behr chose a rich, bluish hue called “Blueprint,” while Sherwin-Williams chose “Cavern Clay,” a warm terra cotta color.
South Carolina is widely known for having an abundance of ghosts and haunted places. Whether those instances are real is up to interpretation by each of us. But for a moment, let’s set aside those ghosts and goblins and turn our attention to a part of folklore you hear less about in the Palmetto State: vampires. Our research into the history (and presence) of vampires in South Carolina led us to an astounding discovery on the Internet. It was a transcript of sorts for an interview conducted by a person using the name Thomas Byers. Byers had interviewed a real, live vampire from South Carolina and here’s some of his story:
His name is Peter and he was born in 1772, the third son of a wealthy rice plantation owner in Charleston.
He claims his family's plantation was somewhere on the Ashley River, although he didn't say where or give the surname of his family. His life on the plantation as a young child and teen was a happy and healthy existence.
As young Peter grew into a maturing teen, he would go into Charleston where his father owned another home. Here in Charleston Peter was known to live it up and party. He had no shortage of beautiful women with whom he regularly engaged.
According to Peter's account, he was almost immediately smitten and under the spell of the gorgeous woman with long black hair. And when she asked him to dismount his horse and take a walk with her, he did not hesitate.
Without providing details of their first night together, Peter claims in the interview that by sunrise his life would be changed forever. Peter claims he's been a vampire since he was 17. That would be approximately the year 1799 — which means in 2018, Peter will turn 246 years old.
All information in this article was obtained from this published interview with Peter, conducted by a Thomas Byers. It’s a fascinating transcript from the interview, and includes some shocking answers to questions we’d probably all love to ask a real live vampire. Check it out.
Do you believe in vampires? We’d love to know! Continue the discussion in our comments.
20 Reasons Why Living in South Carolina Is The Absolute BEST!
United has ranked South Carolina #2 in the United States for inbound residents. That, my friends, is a lot of people moving to South Carolina and it is absolutely no wonder why. We have it all here and I am going to give you 20 undeniable reasons why moving here will be the best idea you have had all year long!
Depending on which part of the state you choose to live in, you will have 7-8 months of warm weather. I don't know about you, but that is a plus in my book!
Yes, this is true. Even if you decide to live in one of the bigger cities in South Carolina you will find that we move at a slower pace. Which is lovely by the way.
The cost of living in South Carolina is 7.3% lower than the national average. That means that all that money you save you can actually have a vacation once in a while!
Yes, we do have our rude people. Doesn't every state? But, on average, we are polite and hospitable. In fact, we have been ranked as one of the friendliest states in the nation!
Hey, it is absolutely no secret that southern food is the best food. Now, don't put words in my mouth. I didn't say it was the best for weight management...I said it was mouth-watering and amazing food.
So you don't have to worry about what you ate for lunch! In all seriousness however, with all the warm weather we have loads of time to find outdoor activities. There is so much you can do here in South Carolina all you have to do is close your eyes and pick one!
We have some of the top ranked hospitals in the nation including Baptist Hospital in Columbia, SC, and MUSC in Charleston, SC. In fact, MUSC ranks #2 in the nation for Pediatrics.
Not into fishing? Well, South Carolina has many wonderful museums, local art shops, art "walks". I personally, am not a fisherman, but I do love to hunt down beautiful pieces of art.
Aiken, SC is the prime location for all things horse related, but if that is too slow for you then we have Darlington Raceway where the fastest go to break records.
Tired of the rat race? We can definitely give you a better connection with nature here. South Carolina has 47 state parks covering more than 80,000 acres of land.
You can laugh if you like, but when you try it you will never want to be anywhere else. There is nothing better than sitting on the front porch in a rocking chair, your feet propped up, and a glass of ice tea beside you as you watch the clouds roll by.
Some of the most beautiful times in South Carolina. We tend to have some gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. I don't think I have seen a bad one in all my years except when it was raining and there wasn't one.
I’m sure I could give you more reasons to move here. In fact, it would be quite easy to do so, but I bet you are planning your move here now. And, why wouldn’t you? There is no where finer than South Carolina!
Americans who are moving out of state tend to be heading south, according to a new analysis by LendingTree, a loan information source. Researchers analyzed more than 2 million new purchase mortgage loans to see where people are moving to and from.
Florida is the winning destination, according to the analysis. It was the top destination for movers who were relocating out of state in 15 out of the 50 states. Consumers like to move to Texas, but some also move within the state: Texas had the highest percentage of residents looking to move while remaining within state lines. Texas is also one of the top destinations for people relocating from other states.
Alaska was the state that had the most residents looking to move away. The study found the top destination for those leaving Alaska is Washington state.
Many Americans who do move out of state don’t tend to go that far. More than half of the most popular relocation states border the person’s current state.
These Treehouses In South Carolina Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience
South Carolina has no shortage of awesome outdoor spectacles or adventurous opportunities. For the trip of a lifetime make plans to stay at one of these treehouses in South Carolina on the Edisto River. Seriously, the trip of a lifetime.
The Edisto River treehouses were ranked among the "Top 10 Ten Treehouses in the World" by USA Today in 2015.
However, you do need to keep a watchful eye for downed trees that can cause your vessel to tip. Avoid them and avoid capsizing. That sounds reasonable, right?
The payoff: a truly remote destination like you've never seen before in South Carolina.
Have you visited these treehouses in South Carolina on the Edisto River? Or are you adding this to your bucket list? We’d love to know and see your pictures in our comments.
This Mouthwatering Ice Cream Trail In South Carolina Is All You’ve Ever Dreamed Of And More
The return of warm weather means many things for South Carolinians.
For some South Carolinians, it’s the return of endless possibilities for outdoor fun. But for all of us it’s a return to our childhood, a time when a frozen treat could wipe out all the worries of the day. We all love retreating back to the place in our lives when Dad would pile us in the car for a drive to get that frozen treat that would make summer seem like the be-all to end-all. For a return back to those days, follow this ice cream trail through South Carolina and eat your way through a revival of those great youthful days of your childhood.
We’ve put together the ultimate ice cream road trip through South Carolina and you won’t be able to resist the treats on this trek through the Palmetto State.
Reasonable prices, larger selection, located right on Main Street? What more could you want? How about this? Trip Advisor users usually have their finger on the pulse of what's happening in a market. They're saavy enough to leave reviews both when they've had a good experience and a so-so experience. In this case, Trip Advisor users have reviewed this little ice cream stand so positively that the Ice Cream Station ranks #1 for desserts - no surprise there, right? But wait, it also currently ranks #3 out of 88 restaurants in and around Simpsonville. Now that's something!
What? It's stifling hot in Aiken and you haven't made a daily run to Flanigan's yet? Tsk, tsk. You're missing out on 24+ flavors, and special concoctions like this Hot Fudge Sunday with Salty Caramel Peanut Ice Cream. Plus, this comfy dessert eatery is fully air conditioned with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy your tasty treats!
3. Zestos/West Columbia - 504 12th St, West Columbia, SC
No Ice Cream Trail in South Carolina would be complete without a stop at the iconic Zestos in West Columbia. Generations - like more than three in some cases - of families have grown up enjoying ice cream treats from Zestos. Enjoy reminiscing as you revisit this oldie, but GOODIE, in Columbia!
From the Greek food to the amazing ice cream treats, the Sundae House in Florence is a fave among locals. Roll up on this place and find out for yourself the goodness within!
Oh wow. You had me long before the marshmallows, but those sold me. Located across from the famous Ocean Lakes Campground (where I first discovered this ice cream place) Meyers is most favored for their soft serve, milkshakes, Italian ice and their 50+ flavors. Save up room in your tummy for this stop on the Ice Cream Trail!
You'll love the large selection and friendly service at Painter's. But that's not why you'll go back multiple times in a week if you're in the area. The beach view just may be the key.
There are several locations of this locally-owned icon in the Charleston area but if you really want a nostalgic experience then visit this original location on Highway 17 in Charleston's West Ashley. This one location is where it all started and you'll constantly hear the ever-apology: "Sorry everything is so large." Seriously. Can an ice cream treat BE too large? Nope.
8. The Frozen Moo - 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island
This photo proves that looks are deceiving. This may LOOK like an ordinary chocolate cone, but think again. At the Frozen Moo everything is beyond your expectations. This is actually a Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel ice cream cone. Wow! Sign me up!
If ice cream is your first love then you’ve undoubtedly made your way all they way through this amazing Ice Cream Trail in South Carolina. Devoid of ANY franchises, this Ice Cream Trail is a sure pleaser! Have you been to the spots listed on this trail? We’d love to know in our comments!
19 Pictures That Will Forever Change The Way You See South Carolina
A picture can say a thousand words and have a profound effect on you. South Carolina has more than its fair share of life-changing photo ops. Here are a few of our favorites here at Only In South Carolina. Enjoy!
1. The inspirational chapel, known as "Pretty Place," is at the YMCA's Camp Greenville in Cleveland, SC.2. Lake Jocassee is breathtaking from this vantage point on "jumping off rock."3. Daniel Chapel at Furman University at night with the lights reflecting on the water. Bring a jacket. You may find it hard to walk away...4. Clemson Marina on Lake Hartwell in Seneca brings a little of the beachy feel to the upstate.5.Speaking of the beach...this sunet over the dunes on Seabrook Island is mesmerizing.6. The Old Ballenger Mill, part of the Willow Creek Conservatory in Landrum, SC. Just beautiful...7. The vivid red, white and blue in this photo of Campbells Covered Bridge near Landrum, SC is astounding.8. The attention to detail in the restoration of this mansion on King Street in Charleston is so intense that if/when you see it in person, it will change your measure of perfection forever.9. Just another beautiful day on Callahan Mountain Road at the entrance to the Poinsett Bridge in Greenville County.10. Sleep in on vacation when you're at the beach in South Carolina? No way. You'll miss the best part of the day - the sunrise...11. This night sky beyond a boneyard beach in South Carolina may forever change the way you feel about everything.12. The ascending movement in this sculpture at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet may make you wish you could hitch a ride to Heaventown.13. South Carolina's mountains have a lot of waterfalls. After you hike all the way in to see one....14. ...you'll say, "I'm not leaving without the money shot!"15. This beauty was snapped shortly after sunrise at Charleston's Waterfront Park. You can almost hear the children that will be playing in this fountain later in the day.16. Wow. Just. Wow.17. Secret little blips of paradise are tucked away in all corners of South Carolina, like this small chapel located in Ramsey Creek Preserve in Westminster.18. The Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Beach...can you SEE the end? Or does it go all the way to Africa?19. After seeing this supermoon over Harbor Town you may find yourself searching for words...or gasping for air. Either way, you may never visit Harbor Town again without seeing this image on the back of your eyelids.
With so many beautiful places to see in South Carolina, we’re sure there are so many more.
The colder months can make selling tougher. The home’s exterior can look dreary against a gray sky backdrop and buyers may want to go into hibernation rather than shop for homes in the chilly weather. But real estate and staging professionals say there’s still plenty you can do to make your listing stand out in the wintertime. Realtor.com® spotlighted a few of their ideas, including:
Don’t let the colder months be an excuse to not pay attention to your yard maintenance, even if mounds of snow are covering your lawn. Make sure buyers always have an easy path to the front door by shoveling the driveway and paths. Clean out the gutters of any leaves so ice doesn’t back up and lead to any roof damage. Give the front door a fresh coat of paint. Consider some winter-themed outdoor decor, too. “I love putting evergreens next to the door and on the porch,” Rebekah Scott, a real estate broker for Atlas Real Estate Group in Denver, told realtor.com®. “Everyone knows how elegant evergreens look with snow on them, so it’s a good way to really showcase the snow.” Read more about additional ways to create a warm and inviting winter listing.
Heat it up.
Make the home cozy by turning up the thermostat and fixing drafty spots. “A cold house can hurt a sale,” says Scott. “When a buyer enters the house and wants to hurry up and get out of there because it is so chilly, it probably means they are going to have a bad memory associated with the home, no matter how great it is. You want to provide a warm and inviting environment so buyers will want to take their time and linger.” If the home has a fireplace, consider firing it up—not only can that help make a home feel warmer, but it’s also a great way to highlight this selling feature.
Appeal to the senses.
Pay attention to the home’s smell. In the winter months, you might consider adding in some seasonal scents, such as oranges, cloves, and cinnamon on the stove. Or, freshly baked holiday cookies on a cooling rack in the kitchen, Scott says. Also, consider playing some soft seasonal music, like holiday-themed jazz. Suit their flavor tastes, too, by offering up some hot cocoa or coffee. It can be a great warming treat in the cold and it can boost potential buyers’ moods.
