Search for Charleston SC Real Estate and Folly Beach SC Real Estate

Just Sold another home in Charleston, SC

2010-12-28T07:11:00.001-05:00

Just sold another listing in this challenging market

1502 Whitby Lane close on 12/22/2010

Give me a call today at 843-209-9667 or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com to find out how the listing tools of Charleston Pier Partners got this home sold!

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Saks comes back to Charleston, Sc

2010-12-27T15:43:00.001-05:00

Saks Fifth Avenue has announced that it will open an OFF 5TH store at Tanger Outlet Center in North Charleston in October.

OFF 5TH offers discount designer clothing and accessories, with savings of 40% to 70% off original and comparable prices, according to the company's website.

Related coverage
Saks leaving King Street; Forever 21 to take its place

The store at Tanger Outlet Center in North Charleston will be the second OFF 5Th in South Carolina. The Mall at Shelter Cove in Hilton Head Island already has a location, though Saks officials said that store is scheduled to move over the summer to a remodeled store.

Saks officials said they'll also open an OFF 5Th in Oklahoma City in August 2011. The two new stores will be 28,000 square feet.

Saks now has 58 OFF 5TH stores in 23 states.

The company announced in May that it was closing its Saks Fifth Avenue store at Majestic Square in downtown Charleston after 15 years of operations. Retailer Forever 21 is scheduled to take its place.

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

JUST SOLD on Johns Island

2010-10-22T11:38:00.002-04:00

I just sold another home on Johns Island, SC.

1487 Island Creek Trail sold for $572,000 in less than 6 months.

Call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 ro email at rsandin@carolinaone.com to discuss selling your property. The market systems of Charleston Pier Partners are getting results in today's challenging market!

Search all Charleston, SC property at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Wild Dunes Resort: 3 BD, 2 BA, walk to beach for $525,000, call Randall at 843-209-9667

2010-08-23T15:50:00.002-04:00

NOT a short sale - owners understand the market and have reduced this home to below market value

$525,000 for a furnished home in Wild Dunes Resort

Looking for turn-key investment property, a second home or a primary residence in Wild Dunes, please make sure you view 20 Lake Village Lane. This single family home is being sold fully furnished and is an easy walk to the beach and the Grand Pavilion and Village Plaza at Wild Dunes. Call Randall today at 843-209-9667.

20 Lake Village Lane - Wild Dunes
3 BD, 2 BA, hardwood floors, fully furnished
$525,000, MLS# 2925875

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

West Ashley condo reduced to $94,500

2010-08-23T11:32:00.002-04:00

This reconditioned West Ashley condo inside 526 has granite counter tops in the kitchen, new flooring in the kitchen, bedrooms and living area as well as a fresh coat of paint! The community has a pool and this unit backs up to the West Ashley greenway. Area across the parking lot is currently tree lined giving this building a greener feeling than other units in the community.

507 Stinson Drive, Unit E2, Wildwood Condos
$94,500 - 2 BD, 1.5 BA, MLS# 1021722
For more info, call Matt Poole at 830-0027 or mpoole@carolinaone.com

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Charleston SC Condo - great condition & NOT a short sale

2010-08-19T14:28:00.000-04:00

Grove Park Condos in Grand Oaks

Not a short sale – a Motivated Seller

Just Reduced to $125,000

1502 Whitby Lane
MLS# 1001310
2 BD, 2 BA, 1320 sq ft, $125,000

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

James Island ~~ 4 BD, 2 BA, new price of $189,900

2010-08-19T14:09:00.001-04:00

Not a short sale – a Motivated Seller

Freshly refinished hardwoods, new flooring in the kitchen, fresh painted rooms, screened porch.

1059 Kentwood Circle, James Island, South Carolina
MLS# 1010872
4 BD, 2 BA, 1708 Sq ft, $189,900

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

JUST LISTED: Folly Beach, SC secluded beach house $675,000

2010-08-18T05:49:00.003-04:00

614 W. Beach Ct., Folly Beach
Sunset Point, MLS# 1017899
3 BD, 2.5BA, 1920 Sq ft, $5675,000

VISUAL TOUR

Here it is folks! A home on a Folly Beach cul-de-sac just a block from the sixth street walkover with public water and sewer! This home features 1900+ square feet of living space on a tidal creek with approximately .33 of an acre of land! The large rear deck and screen porch overlooks a tidal creek and private back yard. The large master bedroom is on the first floor. The living area with vaulted ceilings flows well with the eat in kitchen. Listen to the ocean and enjoy Folly with out the traffic on this private cul-de-sac street! Call Matt Poole today at 843-830-0027 to view this property or email at mpoole@carolinaone.com.

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Testimonial from a new Client for Randall Sandin, Realtor, Charleston SC

2010-05-25T08:52:00.000-04:00

“I would like to take this opportunity to let you know of the outstanding service I received and continue to receive from one of your agents, Randall Sandin. As a military member transferring to the Charleston area, I only had a short time to find a house. Randall sent me e-mails with listings prior to my arrival so I would have an idea of what the area had to offer. Randall and I agreed on days and times to meet, and he was always ready to go when I arrived. This was a pleasant surprise as I have found that most agents that I have dealt with in the past were far from punctual. Once Randall had an idea to see what I liked and didn’t, he immediately focused on houses he knew would fit my needs. The house I ended up renting was not originally for rent, but instead for sale. Randall went out of his way to make sure every option was explored, and as a result I have found a home to live in, that is in the area I wanted and fits the needs of my wife and I. People like Randall are the exact reason we wanted to come to Charleston, and can’t wait until we arrive. Randall has continued to assist us even though we have already signed a lease. Randall Sandin, in my opinion, is a consummate professional and an asset to your company. He is the reason I will recommend him, as well as Carolina One for those requesting my assistance in finding a Realtor.” –Brian & Tammy W.

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Single Family Home for under $160,000 on James Island, SC

2010-05-21T06:26:00.001-04:00

NOT a short sale - Just a Great Price

1367 Camp Road ~~ now $159,999 ~~ MLS# 1005759

3 BD, 1.5 BA, 1431 sq. feet, Large fenced in lot, Newly refinished hardwood floors, Open kitchen/dining area, Bonus room & laundry room, Large workshop w/ power in backyard, VISUAL TOUR

Call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 to schedule a time to see this great home or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Flood Insurance to Expire Again on 5/31/2010

2010-05-17T16:08:00.000-04:00

Please be advised that the temporary funding for the National Flood Insurance Program will expire yet again on 5/31/2010. New flood insurance policies and increases to existing policies may not be available unless congress reauthorizes the program. We've been though this cycle twice already this year and policy availability has had a temporary lapse both times and can possibly delay closings.

If you are planning a closing after 5/31/2010, we HIGLHY ADVISE YOU to get your flood insurance applied for and paid prior to 5/31/2010. You can make your date of coverage effective for your actual closing date. By paying for the coverage prior to the expiration of NFIP funding, you will guarantee availability of your flood insurance.

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

JUST LISTED High End Johns Island Home Tidal Creek w/ Dock

2010-05-17T13:43:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Lowcountry Living at its finest! This 4 BD, 3.5 BA Hilton Googe designed home on 2.8 acres is located on a tidal creek with a boat lift in place *** the large master suite has a spacious bathroom with his & her vanities, his & her walk-in closets, a jetted tub & stand-up shower *** beautiful hardwood floors are throughout the home *** the upstairs has 3 additional bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms with plenty of closet & storage space *** a large living area overlooks the huge backyard & marsh *** formal dining room *** open kitchen with breakfast area *** screened porch & additional open porch space *** large garage area that is big enough for 2-3 vehicles, workshop, storage and more *** there is a mini-orchard with orange trees, apple trees & others *** the dock has incredible views, boat life is already in place along with a wood patio leading to the water…this is Lowcountry Living… call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 to view this spectacular home or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

1487 Island Creek Trail, Johns Island, SC 29455

$650,000, 2659 sq feet, 4 BD, 3.5 BA

Search all Charleston homes on the MLS at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

NEW BLOG ADDRESS

2010-04-16T11:59:00.001-04:00

For future updates and blogging of Randall Sandin, please go to the following link

http://activerain.com/blogs/rsandin

JUST SOLD - 403 Carol on James Island

2010-03-25T07:00:00.002-04:00

Just Sold another home on James Island, South Carolina

403 Carol Street closed successfully at 99% of the current listing price. If you are interested in finding out how I continue to get homes sold in this challenging market, please give me a call at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Folly Beach, SC JUST LISTED Classic beach home just one block from the ocean

2010-02-03T06:43:00.003-05:00

Ready for that beach life but do not have the big bucks for beach front??

Come check out 418 E. Ashley - this home is just one block from direct beach access...took me one minute to walk to the beach...it is also just 4 blocks from the heart of downtown Folly Beach with all the bars & restaurants. Upstairs is 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and a large living area and downstairs has a separate entrance and is 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. There are decks on the front and back of the home and this is a full street-to-street lot with lots of beautiful palms and a grand oak tree.

Call me today to see this property - Randall Sandin, 843-209-9667

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NEW LISTING - Mira Vista on James Island, SC - NOT a short sale!!

2010-02-02T16:14:00.001-05:00

Just re-listed ~~ 2234 Telfair Way in Mira Vista ~~ James Island/Charleston, SC

Now only $175,000 ~~ this is NOT a short sale ~~ owners can close immediately

This home is in excellent condition with a large open living/dining/kitchen area, two large bedrooms with high ceilings, two full bathrooms, nice open entryway and a screened porch. This is a third floor unit so no neighbors above you and has nice wooded views. Call Randall at 843-209-9667 to view this home today! MLS# 1002839

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I am a top ranked producer on the Charleston Pier Partner team of Carolina One Real Estate. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I am a full-time agent that specializes in residential real estate for owners and investors. Give me a call today so we can discuss your situation in confidence. Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

2010 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

2010-02-02T08:58:00.001-05:00

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

February 12-14, 2010 - The largest wildlife art and nature event in the nation, SEWE offers something for everyone.

Click on the main link above for ticket & event info or go to www.sewe.com. Here are a few of the highlights coming for 2010.

Jack Hanna - UP CLOSE!

Spend "An Evening with Jack Hanna" at the SC Aquarium ~~ The South Carolina Aquarium and SEWE cordially invite you to spend a wonderful evening at the Aquarium with Jack Hanna. Have your picture taken with Jack, mingle with friends, see interesting creatures up close, and listen to live music. Enjoy libations from the open bar and delectable hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $85 and my be ordered online or by calling (843) 723-1748. Call with your SC Aquarium Member # and receive $10 off.

Celebrate Valentine's with SEWE

Enjoy a special brunch at The Francis Marion Hotel ~~ A brunch on Saturday, February 13, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Francis Marion Hotel coupled with a SEWE ticket is great way to spend the day with your Valentine

James Island, SC ~~ Town Council Update

2010-01-28T05:31:00.001-05:00

From the martial Mayor...to the confused Council...to the amused audience, last week's James Island Town Council meeting was a singular spectacle for all.

Ditch Versus Documentary

Growing Rift between Mayor and Council Turns Downright Bizarre

By Charlie Morrison

Reach Charlie at morrisoncd31@yahoo.com

The Rev. Parris Williams twice delivered emotional prayers evoking love and peace amongst members of James Island Town Council last Tuesday night. They were mostly ignored. From the opening moments of the normally benevolent meeting of the Ways and Means Committee, Mayor Mary Clark and members of Council sparred over various issues as if the gavel to come to order were a ringside bell. A growing rift between the Mayor and members of Council became blatantly obvious as the meeting progressed, triggering a back-and-forth of name-calling that drew the ire and entertainment of the 30 or so James Island residents who attended the meeting. In the end, both the Mayor and Councilmembers appeared the worse for the wear, but a determined Mayor Clark managed to grind along with her agenda.

‘From Three Blind Mice to the Bobbsey Twins at the Seashore'

The meeting of the Ways and Means Committee met prior to the regular meeting of Town Council to discuss the funding of various projects, most of which related to public works items such as the grading of dirt roads in the Town. As Town Planning Commissioner Roy DeHaven asked Council for discussion on the first of nearly 20 public works projects, Councilman Joe Qualey changed the subject. "What's the status of Mr. Stamey's ditch," asked Councilman Qualey, referring to the lingering issue over Council's controversial vote to cover and pipe a drainage ditch in front of a property on Three Trees Road

"What does that have to do with this," replied the Mayor. After Councilman Qualey explained that he intended to block all spending until the issue was addressed, Mayor Clark rebutted. "Obviously these two gentlemen here have met and decided that they going to vote against everything until Mr. Stamey's ditch is addressed, if that isn't plain to you that's plain to me. It's a bit ridiculous," she said.

After all the public works projects were discussed, none of which bared the blessing of Councilmen Qualey or Leonard Blank, Qualey clarified his intentions. "I don't think we should spend a dime on any of these things until we address the issue that has already been directed to be done, and that's Mr. Stamey's property. We should freeze all spending until that is done as directed by Council," said Qualey.

Mayor Clark, noting the absence of Councilman Bill "Cubby" Wilder from the meeting of the Ways and Means Committee, summed up her feelings about Council regarding this particular issue, saying "we have moved from Three Blind Mice to the Bobbsey Twins at the Seashore."

The Sesquicentennial Commemoration

The next item on the agenda of Ways and Means was the proposed funding of the History & Preservation Committee. Mayor Clark has led the Town's planning of the commemoration of the sesquicentennial (150^th) anniversary of the first shot of the Civil War, to be held in April of next year. Mayor Mary Clark spoke on the need to fund the Committee to properly prepare the Town for what she deemed a "national event." "This time we're asking for $50,000 to fund the making of a film, a documentary and various other expenditures that will go for the commemoration of the sesquicentennial. That entire event belongs to the people of James Island because it is our unique place in history to have had the first shot fired from James Island," said Clark.

Roughly $30,000 had previously been transferred from the general budget to that of the History and Preservation Committee for the purpose of supporting the Seashore Farmers Lodge restoration project. $5,000 was spent, leaving $25,000 in the account. The additional transfer of funds would bring the Committee's budget up to $75,000. However, there are no accountability measures in place for Town Council to track spending on such a project.

Upon learning that fact, members of Council voiced their objection. "I'm not comfortable with that at all," said Councilman Qualey.

Mayor Clark, irked by Qualey's tone, quickly returned fire. "Let's suspend all activities of the Town of James Island until you get your noses out of the crack you have it in," said Clark.

Amidst the fracas, Councilman Parris Williams was determined to have his voice heard. Road Williams, who serves on the James Island History and Preservation Committee, was strong in his support for funding the project. "We shouldn't hold James Island back from this project," he said. "This is history. This is nothing to play with here. We've got to let our youth know something about our past."

Competing Visions

Mayor Clark opened the regular meeting of Town Council by recognizing members of the James Island Public Service District (JIPSD) who were in attendance. Commissioners Karen Thompson, June Waring, and Rod Welch were asked to stand and be recognized. Clark began her commentary by mentioning the great work of the first incorporated Town of James Island. She then turned her attention to the second incorporation, and by default, Councilmembers Blank and Qualey, who were elected in that incorporation. "In that second town two people that just wanted to be in politics ran for council, and they were elected," began Clark. "Fancy signs get the job done because that puts your name out in the public. So we didn't do much in that second town because half the council was divided, and didn't even know what the vision was," she said.

As far as Mayor Clark's vision, the commemoration of the Civil War anniversary is a big part of it. "We would be remiss as a town and a government if we did not commemorate these events," she said. "The people of our island, the people of our nation, can see the example that we set in bringing people together." She was also quick to point out what she doesn't want as the vision for James Island. "I have wanted James Island not to be a greasy spot in the road, like the West Ashley communities are," she said.

The Public Speaks

The floor was then turned over for public f comments. Lyndy Palmer, realtor and former chair of the Town Planning Committee, was the first to speak. "I'd like to make comment on the Mayor and the Councilmen as far as how the relationship has deteriorated dramatically. How nothing is getting done because there appears to be vindictiveness with some people," she said.

"I think we all have a vision for James Island," Palmer continued. "I think the vision that we all have is togetherness. I don't think it's to come to meetings and have a sideshow. I don't think it's polite or correct to be name-calling. I really don't like to see and hear, Mayor Clark, where it sounds to me that you are threatening the Town Councilman to vote with you because that's the way it should be. And your comment just a little while ago that two of the councilmen should get their noses out of their crack, I find that very inappropriate."

Palmer sat down, and then the public turned its attention to the Mayor's motion to rescind Council's decision to pipe and cover the drainage easement in front of Herb Stamey's Three Trees Road property. June Waring, Commissioner of the JIPSD, warned Council of the legal ramifications of going ahead with their plan to pipe the ditch. She stated that an attorney for the PSD warned her that in municipal matters, ‘Do not do for one, what you're not willing to do for all.'

Brooke Lyon, of the Lighthouse Point subdivision, spoke after hearing about Stamey's complaint. "I heard about the Three Trees Road issue and I felt like I should come down and address ya'll. We have a serious drainage issue at one of our properties that really needs a drainage pipe," said Lyon. "It would be great if you would pay for that, but it never occurred to me to ask ya'll to do that. I would ask ya'll to be careful where you go with spending the money because you'll have people like us coming and saying ‘please do ours next.'"

Sherrie Herring of James Island lamented any ugly transformation of right-of-way, but ultimately said ‘tough luck' to Stamey. "I experienced the same thing when they put sewers down my street," said Herring.

Karen Thompson, also a PSD Commissioner, echoed those sentiments. "The bottom line of the issue is, you own stake to stake of your property, that's it," said Thompson, who is also the daughter of James Island Mayor Mary Clark.

The Drainage Debacle

The public having had its say, Council next turned its attention to the Mayor's third attempt to rescind Council's decision to pipe and ditch the drainage easement at 987 Three Trees Road. If Mayor Clark was looking for movement on the issue, she found none in Councilmen Blank, Qualey, and Wilder, who have upheld their vote to repair the easement amidst threats of resignation and filibuster.

Councilman Qualey summed up the view of the three Councilmen. "We have debated this ad nauseum," he said. "What's happening now, in my opinion, is there is an erosion of the underpinning of this government. That's it. We voted and Madam Mayor, you apparently didn't like the vote. I guess I could say I'm sorry, but I don't have to. There's no more debating, as far as I'm concerned. It's a done deal. I don't want to see another dime spent on anything until Mr. Stamey's issues is addressed."

The vote was called, and Blank, Qualey, and Wilder's insistence that the work be done held, 3-2, with Councilman Williams and Mayor Clark dissenting. Councilman Wilder wanted clarity of the timeline of getting the project started. "When can this be carried out," said Wilder.

"It'll come on the agenda next time, the motion to rescind," Clark said. "I can carry this on the longest. And I ask you now to decide for yourself, which one do you think can carry this on the longest?"

Spending Freeze Fails, Documentary Planned

Qualey and Blank attempted to freeze spending on public works projects when they came to vote, but the votes of Councilmen Wilder and Williams, along with that of Mayor Clark, carried the nearly 20 approved bids for road grading projects through to action.

The final item on the agenda was Council's vote to transfer funds from the operating budget of Town Council, to that of the History and Preservation Committee, to the tune of $50,000. The History and Preservation Committee's budget, for which Council has no oversight, would total $75,000, if the motion passes. Councilmen Qualey and Blank peppered the Mayor with questions about details regarding what the money would go to. At the lack of an itemized budget for Council to review, Qualey felt compelled to comment. "This is what makes people angry about wasteful government spending without any oversight. Why won't you wait until the next meeting to give us a chance to study up on it? That's all I'm asking. I don't think that's unfair at all, especially considering that it's the largest amount of money to be spent at a given time," said Qualey.

At one point, Councilman Qualey asked the Mayor if she could name the director of the documentary that's to be made. Mayor Clark declined to give a name, instead retorting, "I wouldn't hang anyone out to dry in front of this Council."

In the end, the lack of an itemized budget didn't matter. Councilmen Wilder and Williams voted with Mayor in support of funding the Committee, and with a quick swing of the gavel the $50,000 was transferred to the History and Preservation Committee.

The next meeting of James Island Town Council will begin at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 2. The Ways & Means Committee will meet beforehand that night at 6:30 p.m.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. I specialize in the following areas of Charleston, SC: James Island, Folly Beach, West Ashley, Johns Island & Historic Downtown.

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Charleston SC - 2009 Real Estate Market Summary

2010-01-23T06:34:00.001-05:00

Here are a few key stats for 2009 in regards to results from 2008 for the Charleston, SC real estate marker. The main factor is that the short sales and foreclosures are having a huge impact and I see that continuing into 2010 and 2011.

-Charleston residential market was down about 9% in number of transactions and 9% in price for 2009 versus 2008. That includes Single Family Detached (SFD) homes, Single Family Attached (SFA) homes, and mobile homes in the tri-county area. SFD wasn't quite as bad, down 6% in transactions and 8% in price. In fact SFD inventory has fallen a little to just over 6200. That's 67% of the overall inventory. On the other hand, SFA inventory has been rising.

-Buyer activity as shown by the number of contingents on the hot sheet each week was actually up about 6% in 2009 versus 2008. Short sales kept us from closing more of them though.

-Short sales and foreclosures account for 21% of the contingent listings currently on the MLS. And those are just the ones listed correctly under the Special category. There is easily another 4%, making the ss/fc market about 25% of what's under contract.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Carolina One Real Estate helps Haiti Relief

2010-01-21T07:12:00.000-05:00

Carolna One Real Estate of Charleston, South Carolina is purchasing a Basic Disaster Response Unit with Solar Panels and Pump through Water Missions International to be immediately sent to Haiti. The system cleans 23,000 liters of water every 10 hours and will provide clean and safe drinking water to save thousands of earthquake victims' lives. After the immediate disaster needs have been met, the system will be relocated to a hospital, school, or somewhere else needed within the Haiti community where it will continue to provide water for over 5,000 people a day as the country begins to recover.

There are many wonderful organizations involved in this relief effort. It was a difficult decision how to help. Carolina One wanted to know that wherever we sent a contribution that it would provide the most basic needs, that the organization is able to navigate the difficult delivery issues we've all read about so the benefit would be immediate, and that the dollars would flow directly to the victims rather than be diluted by high administrative overhead.

Carolina One chose Water Missions International (WMI). In addition to emergency medical care, clean water is probably the greatest need. WMI was already operating in Haiti before the earthquake and they have people on the ground there to receive these systems and make them quickly operational. They have already shipped 10 systems with a goal to ship 5 more every day, up to a total of 100 complete units. The solar panels and pump eliminate the need for fuel for the systems to become operational. Not only do the water systems provide immediate life saving relief, but they continue to provide clean, safe water ongoing - so our contribution continues into the future as the people and their country begin to recover.

Following are just a few organizations that we feel comfortable are already on the ground in Haiti providing the most basic services of water, food, shelter, and emergency medical care.

You can learn more about them or donate through:

www.watermissions.org or to donate $10 and have it charged to your next cell phone bill, text WMI to 85944 (confirm "yes")

www.redcross.org or to donate $10 and have it charged to your next cell phone bill, text Haiti to 90999

www.clintonbushhaitifund.org or to donate $10 and have it charged to your next cell phone bill, text Quake to 20222

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Charleston SC Condo - great condition & NOT a short sale

2010-01-15T09:21:00.002-05:00

1502 Whitby Lane, Charleston, SC 29412

2 bed, 2 bath, 1320 sq feet ~~ Just $140,000 and NOT a short sale

Come view this like-new condo today in Grand Oaks Plantation, the original owners have taken great pride in the home and have never smoked or had pets in the home ~~ 2 large bedrooms including a huge master with walk-in closet ~~ 2 full baths ~~ master bath has garden tub & stand-up shower ~~ large open living/dining/kitchen area ~~ screened porch ~~ outside storage room ~~ easy parking ~~ community pool ~~ 30 minutes to the beach & 15 minutes to historic downtown ~~ monthly regime was just lowered, YES LOWERED, to $200 per month and covers insurance, exterior landscaping, pest control, trash, pool maintenance & more. For info or to see this home, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Charleston, SC - Market Stats for Dec., 2009

2010-01-14T05:37:00.001-05:00

Charleston, South Carolina - county real estate sales statistics for December, 2009

Here is a brief overview for the Charleston, SC MSA area, for more specific info regarding your neighborhood or your type of home, please give me a call at 843-209-9667 or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Charleston County: 313 properties were sold in Dec., 2009 at a median price of $250,000 compared to 239 sales at a median price of $235,000 in Dec., 2008

Berkeley County: 141 properties were sold in Dec., 2009 at a median price of $170,112 compared to 145 sales at a median price of $173,000 in Dec., 2008

Dorchester County: 146 properties were sold in Dec., 2009 at a median price of $167,830 compared to 142 sales at a median price of $195,150 in Dec., 2008

As you can see from the above numbers, sale were up a significant amount in Charleston County mainly due to the first time home buyers, many who were scheduled to close in Nov. pushed back to Dec. once theu tax credit was extended. Home sales were pretty consistant with last year in Berkeley & Dorchester counties. The news of the Boeing plant and the extended tax credit will hopefully stabilize the Charleston market a little sooner than other areas of the country.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Just Listed - 1345 Palm Cove, Charleston, SC 29492

2010-01-07T06:43:00.002-05:00

Just Listed - 1345 Palm Cove Drive, Charleston, SC 29492

3 bed, 2 baths, 1711 sq feet, $220,000 - NOT a short sale!!

Pride of ownership shows at 1345 Palm Cove Drive in the Peninsula subdivision. A beautiful palm tree greets you as you arrive at the property and the inside of the home is in excellent condition. Here are just a few of the highlights: large open living area which is great for family life & entertaining ~~ downstairs master bedroom with sitting area and walk-in closet ~~ large master bath with dual vanities ~~ two more well sized bedrooms with a shared full bath ~~ lots of natural sunlight throughout the home ~~ two car garage with storage room ~~ separate laundry room ~~ fenced in back yard with a large patio and great views of the pond ~~ located in the more secluded back part of the neighborhood ~~ community amenities include a large pool and playground just a nice walk or short bike ride from the home ~~ owners will supply a one year American Home Shield warranty with acceptable offer on the home ~~ call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 to view 1345 Palm Cove Drive!

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Real Estate Blog link

2009-12-31T06:14:00.004-05:00

Real Estate Blogs Directory
- Directory of real estate blogs and blogs of industries affiliated with and
serving the real estate industry.

Total Blog Directory

Real Estate Blog Directory

2009 Food Drive

2009-12-31T04:04:00.001-05:00

We are pleased to announce that with the help of clients, friends, family and co-workers, we were able to collect 783 pounds of food to distribute to the Lowcountry Food Bank in our annual holiday food drive. This food will equal 612 meals for needy families in the Charleston, SC area.

If you are looking for a great cause, please give food or money to the Lowcountry Food Bank, you can reach them at 843-747-8146, on the web at Lowcountry Food Bank Website and the main contact is Amy Kosar...here is their mission statement:

Our mission is to feed the poor and hungry of the ten coastal counties of South Carolina by soliciting and distributing healthy food and grocery products to nonprofit agencies serving the poor, and to educate the public about the problems of and solutions to domestic hunger.

We will be working with the Lowcountry Food Bank throughout the year as their needs are year round not just during the holiday season. Thanks again for your help!

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

747 Swanson Ave. featured in Post & Courier

2009-12-30T06:18:00.000-05:00

747 Swanson Ave.

New Craftsman-style house on James Island matches high-end interior with vast decks, large lot

By Jim Parker Saturday, December 19, 2009

The builder of a new brick house off Fort Johnson Road is just six years removed from The Citadel.

Yet Grant Zinkon's work at 747 Swanson Ave. is notable for its appearance, which is in-line with experienced craftsmen.

The two-story home in the Eastwood neighborhood offers plenty of square footage on a half-acre lot.

Take something as basic as the front door. Rather than installing an entrance of attractive but less long-lasting wood, the builder chose solid mahogany, says Randall Sandin, broker with the Charleston Pier Partners group at Carolina One Real Estate. "It's custom-made," says Sandin, who is listing the house for $625,000.

The two-story, 2,900-square-foot-home is on a half-acre lot with a large fenced-in backyard. It is located in the existing Eastwood neighborhood on James Island.

"It's more of a Craftsman-style home - two-story brick, tapered columns, square edging," says Zinkon, who started Zinkon Development Co.

An unusual feature of the three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home is a room over the garage that's set up as a loft or play area. It is at the head of the first flight of stairs, giving the house a spilt-level feel. There's a walk-in closet and a bathroom, so the space could be used as a fourth bedroom, Sandin says.

A wide-open kitchen showcases pendant lighting, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.

The second floor contains the sprawling master suite. The master bedroom has space for a sitting area and the luxurious bathroom shows off a jetted tub with fitted towel slots and separate glassed-in shower. The tub and shower surrounds are three-quarter-inch marble - Zinkon cut the pieces in the shower ceiling to fit them because they were so heavy. Two sizable guest bedrooms on the second level are served by a large bathroom.

Spotlighting the first floor is an open kitchen. The center island has a granite countertop and a base of lyptus wood, a Brazilian hardwood. Stainless appliances include a Bosch dishwasher, GE Profile refrigerator and a cooktop, oven and microwave. An eating area beside the kitchen leads to a wide wood deck in the back. The kitchen also connects to the formal dining room at the front of the house.

To the right of the foyer is a narrow storage area with a half-bath decked in bead board at the far end. There's also a cozy family room, a full bath and a side alcove that leads to a screened-in side porch for grilling.

The house has three bedrooms upstairs. This spacious bedroom has recessed lighting.

Steps lead down to a small mud room with built-in shelves for supplies. The door opens into the garage, which has one garage door but has space for two cars and also has a built-in closet.

Floors are Australian cypress, which Zinkon says he likes because it is "very knotty."

The front of the house has dormer windows, ample front porch and sizable yard.

Sandin says the home would be alluring to a "young family with one or two kids that likes the laid back James Island lifestyle." This is also an opportunity for new construction in Eastwood, an established community.

"The whole neighborhood is family friendly," he says. Kids ride bikes along the street paths, and parents tool around in golf carts.

"What's cool is the neighborhood has old dirt roads," Zinkon says. The new Sunrise Park and James Island Yacht Club are at the end of one of those roads, nudging Charleston Harbor.

Located above the garage, the bonus room can be a play area, den or even an extra bedroom.

"It's a little bit of country, large lots one-third to one acre, plenty of room," Sandin says.

The house is near the northeast tip of James Island. Proceed across the James Island Connector, taking the Harbor View Road exit. Turn right on Harbor View Road and travel to its end at Fort Johnson Road. Turn left on Fort Johnson Road and then make turn on Swanson Avenue, which is the first left. Look for 747 Swanson, which is on the left.

Reach Jim Parker at 937-5542 or jparker@postandcourier.com, photos by Leroy Burnell

Agent: Randall Sandin, rsandin@carolina.eom

Office: Carolina One Real Estate

Phone: (843) 209-9667

Philosophy: "My goal is to develop long-term relationships with my clients by giving the highest level of customer service, detailed market knowledge along with an honest and realistic analysis of market conditions. Open lines of communication are key so my clients are informed and understand their individual situations."

www.CharlestonPierPartners.com

Wild Dunes Resort - Major Price Reduction

2009-12-18T12:31:00.001-05:00

OWNERS ARE READY TO SELL THIS WILD DUNES HOME

WE JUST REDUCED TO $599,000

If you have clients looking for turn-key investment property, a second home or a primary residence in Wild Dunes, please make sure you show them 20 Lake Village Lane. This single family home is being sold fully furnished and is an easy walk to the beach and the Grand Pavilion and Village Plaza at Wild Dunes.

20 Lake Village Lane - Wild Dunes

3 BD, 2 BA, hardwood floors, fully furnished $599,000,

MLS# 2925875, VISUAL TOUR

Call Randall at 209-9667 for rental history info.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Red Flags from the Home Inspection

2009-12-16T06:44:00.001-05:00

As we all know, the home inspection is one of the most important parts of the real estate transaction. It is critical to have an experienced and qualified inspector who knows what he or she is doing. Here are a few "red-flag" items to make sure you look out for whne buying a home.

Poor water pressure. Aside from issues of comfort and convenience, low water flow may indicate plumbing problems, such as corroded pipes that will need to be replaced down the road. Tearing out old plumbing and replacing it with copper pipes can run $2,000 to $15,000 or more in a typical 1,500-square-foot home. A less costly alternative is cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping, which unlike rigid copper piping, is flexible and easier to install (approved for potable use in all U.S. model plumbing and mechanical codes, but may not be approved in local building codes).

Among tests you can do: Run water in a bathroom sink and check for weak flow. Flush the toilet while the water is running. Does the faucet flow drop off during the flush? In the bathroom located farthest from the water heater, turn on the hot water. Is there an unduly long delay before the water turns hot?

Ceiling stains. Something's leaking. If the stain appears beneath a bathroom, odds are the shower is leaking. It may merely need recaulking or regrouting, but it could also require ripping out tile and replacing the shower pan, a much more costly process (about $1,500). Most roof leaks result from neglected flashing that seals "valleys" in the roof or around a chimney or vents (cost to repair: $200 to $500). But roof leaks may also mean it's time to replace shingles -- at $100 to $350 per 100 square feet for asphalt shingles and $210 to $1,000 for wood shingles.

Troublesome doors. Are the doors hard to close? Do they swing open by themselves or fail to open fully? If you have one bad door, it may simply have been installed incorrectly. But more than one may indicate a serious structural issue, such as a foundation that has settled or framing that is deteriorating. Fixing this problem can require structural and geotechnical engineering reports and thousands of dollars in repairs.

Overloaded electrical outlets or lots of extension cords. Today's electrical demands may exceed the capacity of homes built as little as a decade ago, says Kuhn. You'll spend $75 to $250 to have an electrician add a 120-volt outlet to an existing circuit. Or, if the electrical system is very outdated, it may require a new electric panel. A new, 100-amp panel will cost $1,500 to $2,500.

Exterior features that slope toward the home. A porch, patio, driveway or grading that slopes toward the home all but guarantees water in the basement. And that may lead to structural decay, mold and insect infestation. In the basement, a musty smell may indicate previous flooding or ongoing moisture problems. Check the walls for stains, dark or light, which are tell-tale signs that water has penetrated the walls.

Solving the problem may be as simple and cheap as adding gutter extensions or regrading soil away from the home, or it could require thousands of dollars to excavate and build drains. Some homes may require exterior drains (one at the bottom of a sloped driveway, for example) as well as buried drains.

Odors. Cigarette smoke and pet odors can be hard to get rid of. And if a home smells too clean -- heavy with the scent of cleaning products (especially bleach) or plug-in deodorizers -- the seller may be trying to cover up an odor, such as mold or urine. If so, you need to inquire further, says Richardson, of the American Society of Home Inspectors.

Synthetic stucco siding. This must be installed precisely or else moisture will be trapped behind it, resulting in mold and decay. In the worst case, the siding will have to be replaced. For a medium-sized house (1,250 square feet of exterior surface area), replacing vinyl siding can cost $2,500 to $8,750, while wood or fiber cement siding can cost $5,600 to $10,000 or more. Especially in humid climates, you may want to pay for a special inspection. HouseMaster charges $600 and up, depending on how much of the material has been used and the size of the house.

Make sure you fully understand the issues with the home you are lookign to purchase and do not feel bad about asking for more inspection time or getting a second opinion. Remember, once you buy the home, all of the good and bad things come with it.

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Mornings at Folly Beach, South Carolina

2009-12-07T05:58:00.003-05:00

Thinking of getting that beach home...finally?

Here is your view during your morning walks on the beach!

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Buying or Selling in Folly Beach or Charleston, South Carolina?

Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

SOLD on James Island, SC

2009-12-07T05:36:00.001-05:00

Just sold 662 Clearview Drive, Charleston SC 29412

Here is what my client had to say:

"I think I can finally say I'm settled in! That said I don't think I ever took the time to thank you as much as I should have. As you know the process of selling my house was a very emotional one for me and you were unbelievably patient and supportive. I can't begin to tell you how much that helped.

I told several friends about how easy it was to get in touch with you when I needed to and how much information you had whenever I asked questions. Most of them were surprised. It seems they didn't have the same story to tell with realtors they've worked with. For all of my complaining about 'keeping it clean' the way appointments were scheduled was relatively easy too.

So thank you again, so much, for everything you did and the time you spent making sure it was as easy as selling and moving can be- especially in these times."

Buying or Selling in Charleston, South Carolina? Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Let me earn your business! I will be happy to discuss your situation in confidence and there is no obligation what-so-ever...I look forward to your call or email.

Search for Charleston, SC & Folly Beach, SC properties for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

North Charleston Condo ~~ Price Reduction

2009-12-02T07:08:00.002-05:00

NEW PRICE of $94,500 ~~ Looking for a clean & well cared for condo, conveniently located to I-26 & I-526 and priced to sell, please give Randall Sandin a call at 843-209-9667 about 8078 Shadow Oak Drive.

8078 Shadow Oak Drive - Oak Bluff

MLS# 2926273, Only $94,500

2 BD, 1.5 BA, 1000 sq ft, back patio

Regime covers all and is just $196 per month

To see this property or for more info, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or reach me at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Search the Charleston MLS for homes at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Charleston SC - Holiday Festival of Lights

2009-12-01T15:00:00.003-05:00

Making the Magic Happen ~~ Behind-the-Scenes at the Holiday Festival of Lights

By Charlie Morrison

The holiday season is once again upon us. The shorter days, the blustery winds, and those manic shopping sprees have the power to dampen our holiday spirits. What sometimes gets lost in all of this is the idea that the holiday season is the time of the year we give thanks to the things that make our lives healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling. For residents of the Lowcountry, we have an extra reason to be thankful each and every year: James Island County Park's Holiday Festival of Lights.

The Charleston Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) is doing a little bit of celebrating themselves this year. The 2009-2010 holiday season marks the 20th anniversary of the Holiday Festival of Lights, no small feat considering all of the turbulence the past two decades. The festival has survived recessions, hurricanes, and an-ever changing Charleston region, largely in part to the people behind the scenes. For an inside look into the strength and resilience of the event, JIM spoke to two of the Festival's key players: Director of Maintenance David Chappell and Holiday Festival of Lights Supervisor Rich Raab, both residents of James Island.

The Origins of the Festival

The Holiday Festival of Lights started modestly. Former CCPRC Director Tim Eubanks wanted to bring something new to the park. He and Chappell scanned the country for ideas, and what emerged was a trek to Wheeling, West Virginia and Oglebay Park. Oglebay had been putting on a wintertime event called the Winter Festival of Lights, which was a big hit in the small town about an hour southwest of Pittsburgh. CCPRC purchased 18 light displays from Oglebay Park, and the James Island County Park Festival of Lights was born.

Purchasing the light was just the beginning, and the growth of the festival that followed was exponential. Enter Rich Raab, Holiday Festival of Lights Supervisor. Raab saw the park's newest asset and said to Chappell, "I can build these." Seeing Raab's enthusiasm and knowing his artistic and metal-working abilities, Chappell responded with a challenge, telling Raab if he thought he could fabricate the designs himself, he should go ahead and do it.

"Lets see if you can really do it. Build me a couple of snowflake designs over the summer, complete with lighting, and then we'll really know if its possible or not," he told Raab.

Over that next summer, Raab, working in his home-based shop, created a total of 80 snowflake displays. And the rest, as they say, is history. Rich Raab became the architect of the displays, and earned himself a full-time job as the Festival of Lights supervisor, a position he's held for all 20 years.

Chappell knew what he had at that point. The wheels began to spin in his mind about what the Holiday Festival of Lights could be, and growth of "the little light show" into the holiday extravaganza we all know and love began. Today, the Holiday Festival of Lights features more than 650 displays and over 100 individual pieces, all dreamed up, designed and created by Rich Raab, who David Chappell fondly calls "a true artist."

Santa's Workshop

Putting on the Festival of Lights is a year-round event. Raab's current work facility, which he fondly dubbed "Santa's Workshop," has undergone an evolution of its own. In the past, Raab and his crew used a basic technique of drawing a rough chalk outline of an image onto the concrete floor, and bended rebar into the shapes he needed. Today, the artist utilizes a scanner, a computer, and a projector to lay the template of an image on the concrete. Once Raab finds an image he likes, he scans it into the computer. The digital image makes any edits he sees fit to make much easier. The edited image is then sent to a projector that's mounted on the ceiling of the shop and pointed straight down to the floor design area. Alterations regarding the size of the image, and the display to be created, can be made with a click of the mouse.

With a projected image of the potential display piece illuminated on the floor of the workshop, the design team can begin the process of cutting, bending, shaping, and welding the rebar skeleton into the form they want. Raab is a bit of a perfectionist.

"Even when I get a drawing or image I like, I spend hours on the computer re-working the drawing. Then, even when it's on the floor, I sometimes decide the image isn't going to work, so I begin again," he said.

There is a practical reason to build and maintain the displays in-house, notes David Chappell. "The sun's UV rays fade the bulbs," he says. "The fading defeats the purpose of being clear, distinct, joyful, and wonderful. That's the battle. If the lights aren't clear the people wouldn't come back. It wouldn't be as festive".

With the metalworking done, Raab and his team begin the tedious process of adding the lights. These days, the design crew utilizes many types of lights in their displays. These include six different varieties of bulbs: mini-lights, icicle lights, rope lights, the typical big-bulb C-7 and C-9 lights, and the team's newest toy, LED lights.

The 'light infantry'

David Chappell says it's nice to have the talented Raab handling the production and maintenance of the individual displays, but that's only half the battle. The workforce behind the project is immense by necessity. Chappell's traditional duties are to maintain the CCPRC's ten parks and 19 boat landings, a feat that requires a staff of 65 full-time CCPRC employees. These employees, efficiently broken up into smaller teams, each spend time on the Festival of Lights project, but even they need help getting the job done. That's where the volunteers come in.

The James Island County Park utilizes "campground hosts," visitors that put in 40+ hours of labor each on the project. In return, the park grants them free use to water and electricity. Each volunteer brings various areas of expertise, something Chappell needs desperately to make the show happen.

Chappell says the folks that offer up their time and knowledge are the real heroes of the festival. "It's better to have volunteerism because they look at it not as job, but as something they have to do now," he says. "They're fantastic. They come to maintenance and do nothing but lights bulbs and a couple various jobs like drop trash off, pick up litter, and help with recycling."

For the Love of the Show

Having worked together in growing the Festival for the last 20 years, Chappell and Raab clearly have higher motives for doing the work. For Raab, spending all year building displays in the heat of a Lowcountry summer is worth it. "This job is a lot of work in the summer sweathouse, but every year, to see kids' faces light up, it's all worth it," said Raab.

Raab sees the financial side as well. "The other reward I feel personally is, for $10, a family can come in and see the show," he says.

Chappell is proud of the County Parks' ability to price the event reasonably as well. "Our goal is to be efficient, if we're not efficient, the cost to the consumer has to go up," he says. "We've charged only $10 a car for 10 years. The park wants a really great family tradition. It's history now, its something that people look forward to. We want to be so efficient that we can keep the costs down. If you can do a quality show and people come to it, the reward is pretty good."

A lot of time, effort and hardworking people go in to putting this project together. Here's a look at some of the numbers:

* Individual Lights: 2,000,000+

* Large Displays: 650+

* Display Pieces: 1,000+

* Workers: 150+

* Time to power up and power down the lights: 45 minutes each

* Sets of mini-lights: 10,000 (500,000 lights, for 56 displays)

* Avg. nightly light bill: $1,000

* Electrical Breakers used in show: 6,000

* Life of glass bulbs: 3,000 hours

* Nights of Show: 52

* Annual Visitors: 200,000+

* Trailers used to store lights: 29

* Price in 1999: $10/car

* Price in 2009: $10/ car

* Avg. number of glass bulbs changed each year during 4-week period: 170,000

* Avg. number of displays refurbished or added each year: 35

* Avg. Weight of pig cooked for staff appreciation party: 130 lbs.

Charlie Morrison is staff writer for the James Island Messenger and West Of, both publications of Wiser Time Publishing. Contact Charlie at 843-297-0528 or by email at MorrisonCD31@yahoo.com or visit the James Island Messenger at JAMES ISLAND MESSENGER

For information on Charleston, SC and Folly Beach, SC real estate, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the Charleston MLS for free at CHARLESTON REAL ESTATE SEARCH

James Island SC - Price Reduction - Eastwood Neighborhood

2009-11-30T05:58:00.000-05:00

JUST REDUCED TO $338,000!!! Eastwood Neighborhood on James Island, South Carolina

753 Willow Lake Road 4 BD, 2 BA with a spacious yard, beautiful hardwoods, 1/2 acre lot, open floor plan, large screened porch & more

$338,000, MLS# 2919814 VISUAL TOUR Easy to show - just call CSS.

For info on Charleston SC homes, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the Charleston MLS for free at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

How Negative Items Affect your Credit Score

2009-11-24T09:15:00.002-05:00

There was a great article on www.msn.com today regarding how items affect one's credit score. With the large number of short sales and foreclosures we are seeing and will continue to see, it is important people reliaze the impact on their credit score.

Here is the link to the article: MSN CREDIT SCORE ARTICLE

Effect on a 680 score 780 score

Maxed-out card	-10 to -30	-25 to -45
30-day late payment	-60 to -80	-90 to -110
Debt settlement	-45 to -65	-105 to -125
Foreclosure	-85 to -105	-140 to -160
Bankruptcy	-130 to -150	-220 to -240

For info on Charleston SC real estate, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search for Charleston homes at CHARLESTON HOME SEARCH

Boeing comes to Charleton, SC

2009-11-22T07:30:00.001-05:00

Work on Boeing Co.'s massive 787 Dreamliner plant got underway with a groundbreaking ceremony today that was attended by dozens of elected officials and hundreds of Boeing employees.

Jim Albaugh, Boeing's president of commercial airplanes, praised the local workforce and said the aerospace giant's recent decision to expand in Charleston, South Carolina is going to be good for our competitiveness, it's going to be good for our company, it's going to be good for the country and I think it will create jobs not just here in South Carolina but in Washington state.

For info on Charleston, SC real estate contact Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the Charleston MLS for free at SEARCH CHARLESTON SC HOMES

Another home SOLD on James Island

2009-11-20T13:18:00.001-05:00

Just SOLD! 662 Clearview Drive in the Clearview neighborhood on James Island, SC

Sold for $225,000

Here is what my client had to say:

"As you know the process of selling my house was a very emotional one for me and you were unbelievably patient and supportive. I can't begin to tell you how much that helped.

So thank you again, so much, for everything you did and the time you spent making sure it was as easy as selling and moving can be- especially in these times." - Jayne H.

If you are thinking of selling or buying in Charleston SC, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com. All I ask is for the opportunity to earn your business. Search the Charleston MLS for free at www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Charleston SC - Weekend Fun

2009-11-19T12:57:00.000-05:00

Charleston SC - Weekend Fun for 11/20-21

Guest Chef - Fig Chef Mike Lata has invited friend and fellow chef Chris Hastings to be a guest chef for a special dinner Sunday. Hastings, who has been nominated for a James Beard Award, is the chef-owner of Hot and Hot Fish Club in Birmingham, Ala. He will be cooking a four-course prix fixe menu from his new book, The Hot & Hot Fish Club Cookbook: A Celebration of Food, Family & Traditions . The dinner is at 6 p.m. and costs $75 for dinner only or $100 for dinner and a signed book. Prices exclude tax and gratuity. For more information or to make reservations, go online or call 843-805-5900.

Words & Women - The Lowcountry has produced a bevy of female authors, including Sue Monk Kidd, Anne Rivers Siddons, Mary Alice Monroe and Nathalie Dupree. More than 50 Southern female authors will be gathering on Saturday for the annual Lowcountry Women Authors Holiday Book Sale and Signing. The event, hosted by the Center for Women and the Mount Pleasant Barnes & Noble, will be from 2 to 5 p.m. at the former Tweeter space in Towne Centre. Come meet the authors and enjoy refreshments provided by Saffron Cafe, Charleston Cookie Co. and Chili's in Mount Pleasant. Cost is $10 at the door, which benefits the Center for Women.

Going, Going...Gone - Your chance to snag some unique art and help support the local visual arts scene comes Saturday at the annual Art Auction hosted by Redux Contemporary Art Center . More than 50 original works will be up for live auction at the Charleston Center for Photography. Browse the artworks in the gallery while enjoying food and drinks. The bidding starts at 8 p.m. Participating artists include JB Boyd, Scott Debus, Matt Foreman, Stacy Pearsall, Ben Timpson and Ann Darby Parker. The event runs from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 each or $10 for Redux members and can be purchased at the door. Proceeds benefit Redux.

College Basketball Tournament - The second annual Charleston Classic is bringing eight college teams to play some basketball at the Carolina First Arena. Teams in this year's field are: Davidson, Miami, the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Penn State, South Carolina, Tulane, La Salle and South Florida. The 12 games start today in bracket format and will culminate Sunday with the championship match. A tournament pass is $90 for all the games, a booster ticket is $50 for six games, and single session tickets are $20 for two games. Purchase tickets at 843-953-2632, online or at the Carolina First box office.

Oyster Shindig - The Summerville YMCA is hosting its annual oyster shindig from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday at Pine Forest Country Club. Dance to the East Coast Party Band or nosh on oysters, wings, barbecue and desserts. There will be a cash bar. For $25, go on the "pearl dive" and dig in the sandbox for your treasure. Tickets are $30 each, $15 for kids younger than 12 or $35 at the door. Get tickets at the Summerville YMCA or by calling 843-871-9622, ext. 120.

Just for the Girls - Bring the crew out to Kiawah Island tonight for some shopping and champagne during Girls Night Out from 4 to 8 p.m. The 18 shops at Freshfields Village are staying open late and offering special promotions and extras such as complimentary gift wrapping and giveaways. In between shopping, sip on champagne, munch on some chocolate and cheese and enjoy the live music by Miss Behavin'. There is no charge to attend. Freshfields Village is at the crossroads of Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns islands.

Moon Night - Twilight fans can finally watch the second installment in the series tonight at the midnight premiere of New Moon. Cinebarre is hosting a special double feature, with Twilight showing inside starting at 9 p.m. and the New Moon premiere following outside on the big screen. Bring chairs and blankets, as well as cash for hot chocolate, snacks and wine. Tickets are $10 for each show and can be purchased online, at Cinebarre and at the door. New Moon is also premiering at midnight at the Terrace Hippodrome Theater, with all kinds of New Moon giveaways, plus theater tickets for life. Tickets are $11 and can be purchased online.

Start the Season - Third Thursday in Summerville kicks off the season with a Holiday Open House. Merchants will be decked out for the Best and the Brightest holiday decorating competition. The Josh Padgett Trio will be at Hutchinson Square with its eclectic, jazz-tinged sound, and the Plantation Singers will be in the Short Central shopping district from 7 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be available, and merchants will be open late with holiday specials. For more information, go online.

If you are thinking about buying or selling real estate in Charleston SC, pelase call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Let me earn your business!

Search for Charleston SC homes at CHARLESTON HOME SEARCH

James Island Lot - Cleared w/ Grand oaks & Marsh Views

2009-11-19T06:28:00.001-05:00

Buildable Lot on James Island - Charleston, SC Real Estate

If you are looking for privacy, views and a lot that is ready to build, then please come give me a call about this .708 acre lot on the corner of Old Military Road and Battalion Drive on James Island.

Cleared w/ Grand Oaks Marsh View across St

Click here for the VISUAL TOUR Septic permit and survey are available.

Please call Randall at 209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

0 Old Military Road - Ft. Lamar MLS# 2929235, $150,000

For info on this lot or other Charleston, SC properties, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the Charleston MLS for FREE at SEARCH CHARLESTON HOMES

McLeod Plantation, the last of 17 antebellum plantations on James Island, faces an uncertain future

2009-11-17T09:11:00.002-05:00

What Would Mr. Willie Do?

College, Friends of McLeod lay out competing visions for historic site

By Charlie Morrison

Staff Writer

In late September the trustees of the Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) made the decision to sell one of their most historically important assets, and one of the most historically important assets on James Island, McLeod Plantation, to the College of Charleston Foundation (CCF). The sale of the property and its 36.9 acres at a price of $4 million is subject to a 90-day due diligence period, currently being undertaken by CCF representatives. The due diligence period will allow the CCF one last chance to investigate the property before they finalize the deal and move ahead with their plans for the property. The plans themselves, however, are the subject of much controversy.

The late William "Mr. Willie" McLeod left a one-third interest in his property to the non-profit HCF through his will, which they received upon his death in 1990. Since that time, the HCF acquired the rest of the property. Since then, they have been searching for a buyer that would properly steward the historic property.

The HCF thought they had that buyer in 2004 when they sold the property to the American College of the Building Arts (ACBA), but they were forced to sell the property back to the HCF in 2008 as a result of the school's poor financial position. It was at that time that the HCF examined the possibility of selling the property to the College of Charleston Foundation.

Historic Charleston Foundation's executive director, Katherine Robinson, expressed her reasons for looking in the College's direction. "They have the ability to stabilize the properties that need to be stabilized. They have the funding," said Robinson. "It was never our intention to own it, but to be certain that the property could be preserved by a preservation-minded buyer," said Robinson.

The HCF has preemptively instituted nationally recognized protective easements to ensure that much of the property will remain as it was in antebellum times. The easements mandate that all restoration must meet or exceed the preservation standards outlined by the U.S. Department of Interior for the restoration and rehabilitation of historic properties. The easements apply to all of the buildings on the property, including the main house, the five slave cabins, the barn, kitchen house, the gin house, the carriage house, and the oak allees that line the road to the house from Folly Road. In addition, the HCF must approve any proposed construction on the property, which Robinson says is further insurance that the spirit of the plantation remains intact.

Though the protective easements are firmly established, the Purchase and Sale Agreement does allow for some further development of the property. The CCF released an initial, non-binding outline of the potential uses for the property. Though the outline conveys the CCF's stated intention to "respect the history of McLeod plantation," it also reveals some of the potential uses for the property, uses that have alarmed some in the historic preservation community. The initial plans state that students in the archeology, African-American studies, history, historic preservation and community planning, natural sciences, and studio art disciplines would potentially utilize the site. Additionally, the acres of open fields could potentially be used for recreational activities including intramural sports. That part of the plan is what has irked preservation groups the most.

The Friends of McLeod Inc., a non-profit advocacy group fighting for their own vision for the plantation, has voiced their opposition. Friends board member Carol Jacobson verbalized those concerns. "We want the absolute best for McLeod and the educational component sits there like an elephant in the room," said Robinson.

Friends of McLeod's plan calls for the preservation of the building and grounds as opposed to the restoration of the property, which they say would diminish its historical value. The group is concerned that the College's plan would permanently and irreversibly alter the plantation. They would like the plantation to serve as a passive park, but with an active Sea Island heritage center on premises. In addition, the group envisions a set of five walking tour pathways, each revealing a different facet of the plantation's rich history. Examples of the individual paths include a path dedicated to illustrating the African-American Sea Islanders' post-Reconstruction work on the land, and the use of the plantation in wars dating back to the American Revolution.

The 90-day due diligence period being undertaken by the CCF will end in mid-January. The College's plans for McLeod Plantation won't fully materialize until then, if not later. Until then, preservation activists are left with only questions.

What would Mr. Willie do?

Ultimately, the Historic Charleston Foundation is the steward of the property as outlined in William McLeod's 1985 will. McLeod left open the possibility of more homes being built on the surrounding property, but it is clear he wanted the main house and acreage immediately surrounding it be preserved.

His will reads: "I direct that Historic Charleston Foundation, Inc. place restrictive covenants on as much of the above described real property as possible so as to preserve my residence as a single family residence, to preserve the Oak Avenue and to provide that as much of the property as possible be restricted to single family residence or residences having the lowest possible density. How this is done shall be left to the best judgment of Historic Charleston Foundation, Inc."

Home Buyer Tax Credit Extended

2009-11-14T07:07:00.001-05:00

The deadline for buyers to take advantage of the first-time homebuyer tax credit has been extended to April 30, 2010 and new provisions have been added to include a credit for existing homeowners.

An $8,000 tax credit is available to first-time homebuyers. Purchaser (and purchaser's spouse) may not have owned a principal residence in 3 years prior to purchase to meet first-time homebuyer definition. A $6,500 credit is available to homebuyers who have owned and lived in a home for 5 consecutive years of the last 8 years.

Any single family residence (including condos, co-ops and townhouses) that will be used as the principal residence and has a purchase price of less than $800,000.

The full amount of credit is available for individuals with adjusted gross income of no more than $125,000 or joint gross income of no more than $225,000. The credit is phased out to lower amounts for individuals and joint filers with higher gross incomes.

Buyers must have a ratified contract on or before April 30, 2010 and close within 60 days of that deadline.

The previous agreement required that buyers close on their home by November 30 to qualify for the credit. The expanded agreement gives buyers until April 30, 2010 to ratify a contract and requires that the closing take place within 60 days.

"The Charleston market has maintained a strong momentum coming out of the summer season-due in large part to the tax credit-and we cannot let this momentum lag. This crucial expansion allows all homebuyers to make an investment in a market that is more affordable than it's been in years" said Ralph Wetherell, President of the Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS®.

The tax credit, in its original form, helped to establish more than one million families as new homeowners.

"The homebuyer tax credit has been a critical component to restoring the health of the Charleston real estate market. We've been showing signs of a recovering market since this summer-inventory is decreasing and prices continue to stabilize. Extending this credit, not just in timeframe, but to a new group of homeowners will certainly support the continued re-growth of our area" said Wetherell.

For more info or to look at buying a home in Charleston, South Carolina or Folly Beach, South Carolina, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search for Charleston homes at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

James Island - New Listing - Lakefront for $267,500

2009-11-11T16:52:00.001-05:00

New Listing on James Island ~~ 825 Harbor View Road - $267,500

5 BD, 3BA, 2300 sq ft, heart-of-pine floors, florida room or 5th bedroom, mother-in-law suite, large backyard & more.

Front of Home Large Open Kitchen

"Man-Cave" Building Formal Living Room

Heated Pool w/ Deck Lakefront Home

For more info on this property, pelase call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. To view all Charleston SC Homes, please go to CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Wild Dunes Resort - Price Reduction on 3 BD, 2 BA home

2009-11-11T16:42:00.001-05:00

Just Reduced to $650,000 ~~ 20 Lake Village Lane ~~ Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms, SC

If you are looking looking for turn-key investment property, a second home or a primary residence in Wild Dunes, please make sure you view 20 Lake Village Lane in the Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms, South Carolina. This single family home is being sold fully furnished and is an easy walk to the beach and the Grand Pavilion and Village Plaza at Wild Dunes.

20 Lake Village Lane - Wild Dunes

3 BD, 2 BA, hardwood floors, fully furnished $650,000

MLS# 2925875, click here for the VISUAL TOUR

For more info on this property, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. To search the Charleston MLS for all homes, please visit SEARCH CHARLESTON MLS

Downtown Charleston SC - Major Price Reductions

2009-11-10T07:28:00.000-05:00

Downtown Charleston - Major Price Reductions

41 Coming St - Now Listed at $599,000

The owner has just replaced the kitchen countertops, installed new vanities in both bathrooms, painted the entire inside of the house, installed a new back patio for entertaining and refurbished the original fireplaces with a classic distressed look.

41 Coming Street in Harleston Village 4 BD, 2 BA, 1363 sq. ft.

REDUCED TO $599,000 MLS# 2918638 VISUAL TOUR

Owner will purchase a one year AHS home warranty with the added ServicePlus package to cover HVAC, plumbing, electrical and more for the new owner on both properties. 41 Coming was previously rented for $3000 per month and 6 Percy was $2500 per month. Both are currently vacant and easy to show - just call CSS.

Another Reduction ~~~~ 6 Percy St - Now Listed at $465,000

6 Percy Street in Elliotborough JUST REDUCED to $465,000

MLS# 2916480 5 BD, 3 BA, 2400 sq. ft VISUAL TOUR

Come view this Charleston Single in the Elliotborough neighborhood...built in 1895 and renovated with modern conveniences while still keeping the historic charm of the home. Great rental investment or single family home!

For more info on either of these homes, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the entire Charleston MLS for FREE at SEARCH CHARLESTON SC REAL ESTATE

James Island SC - Price Reduction

2009-11-09T06:32:00.001-05:00

1416 Swamp Fox Lane - Just Reduced to $265,000

Great James Island location in Jamestowne Village

1416 Swamp Fox Lane - Jamestowne Village

4 BD, 2.5 BA, downstairs master, on the pond $265,000

MLS# 2922813, VISUAL TOUR

For information on Charleston, South Carolina real estate, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com - search the entire Charleston MLS for free at SEARCH CHARLESTON HOMES

Short Sale & Foreclosure Offers

2009-08-27T06:44:00.000-04:00

The short sales and foreclosures listings have become more and more difficult and more and more frustrating for some of my clients. I am recommending a different approach when now making offers - do it without an inspection contingency. Yes, I said WITHOUT an inspection contingent. I am recommending that we get the inspection done before we put in an offer on the home. This way we can find out everything and make one offer and justify where our price is coming from on the home. It also shows the bank that they only have to deal with the one offer price, we will not be coming back for a second round of negotiations regarding what we find in the inspection. This also shows if your buyer is serious or not about the property and can take out a lot of long term headaches for just the price of an inspection.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the Charleston, SC area, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email him at rsandin@carolinaone.com Search homes for FREE at http://www.Charlestonpierpartners.com

James Island Open House - Sunday August 2nd, 2-4pm

2009-07-31T09:10:00.001-04:00

Come view this recently renovated home in the Woodland Shores area of James Island this Sunday, August 2nd from 2-4pm.

CHECK OUT THIS NEW PRICE OF $239,000 ~~~ Here is your chance to live on the Charleston Municipal Golf Course and be right near downtown Charleston, Folly Beach and just a mile from the public boat landing in Riverland Terrace ~~~ recently renovated home in great condition ~~ roof is only two years old ~~~ beautiful hardwood floors that were just refinished ~~~ ceramic tile in all bathrooms ~~~ two large master suites or turn back into a three bedroom home ~~~ recently painted ~~~ new deck overlooking golf course ~~~ comes with termite bond ~~~ outside storage shed and more

Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 for more information or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Search all Charleston homes for sale at SEARCH CHARLESTON HOMES

Elliotborough in Downtown Charleston, built in 1895

2009-06-26T14:41:00.002-04:00

Price Reduction in Park Circle - North Charleston

2009-06-26T12:04:00.001-04:00

This recently renovated home is now ONLY $135,000

Take a look at the visual tour to see what a fine first home or investment property this will make.

5040 N. Rhett - Park Circle $135,000, MLS# 2902332

Click here to see the VISUAL TOUR

This home will be great for the first time buyer or investor! Newer renovations include the front porch and master bathroom were completed in 2006 along with the sunroom and laundry area being just four years old. This home has been a great rental and would make for a wonderful home with its three bedrooms and two full baths.

For more info call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com

Search the entire Charleston MLS for FREE at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Price Reduction in Clearview on James Island

2009-06-26T11:57:00.002-04:00

New Listing on Johns Island

2009-06-26T11:57:00.001-04:00

June Baseball Schedule - Charleston Riverdogs

2009-06-04T08:56:00.001-04:00

If you have not checked out the Riverdogs this year, they are in Charleston for 11 home games in June. Our personal favorite is Family Night on Sunday games- general admission tickets are just $5, game starts at 5:05 so you make it home for bedtime, kids get in for FREE and get a FREE hot dog, chips & soda and FREE parking - how can you beat that deal?

Here is the Riverdogs schedule for June:

6/6, 7:05pm: Baseball Card Trade-Away

6/7, 5:05pm: Family Night 6/8, 7:05pm: Dogs with a Cause

6/9, 7:05pm: Two-for-Tuesday

6/10, 7:05pm: All You Can Eat Night

6/11, 7:05pm: Thirsty Thursday

6/18, 7:05pm: Thristy Thursday

6/19, 7:05pm: Fireworks Night

6/20, 7:05pm: Youth Bat Giveaway

6/21, 5:05pm: Family Night

6/30, 7:05pm: Two-for-Tuesday

For complete details on the above promotions as there were more things going on that we could list here, ticket costs and more, go to RIVERDOGS WEBSITE

FREE Charleston MLS home search - go to SEARCH CHARLESTON SC HOMES

For info on buying or selling real estate in Charleston, SC, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

OPEN HOUSE - 6/7/09 on James Island

2009-06-04T08:44:00.001-04:00

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, June 7th, 2-4pm

This home was just reduced to $240,000 in the Clearview Neighborhood on James Island Here are some of the home's features:

recently new gas water heater and gas stove

refinished master shower and hall bathrub

lots of cabinet space and multiple built-in units

plenty of room to build onto the home

full 1/2 acre lot with greenhouse

one car garage

seller will buy AHS one year warranty for buyer

662 Clearview Drive - James Island $240,000 - 3 BD, 2BA, one car garage, 1/2 acre lot

Click here for the VISUAL TOUR

For information on information on other James Island or Charleston homes, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com ~~~ Search the entire Charleston MLS for FREE at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

James Island - Meridian Place new listing - $188,500

2009-05-19T06:51:00.000-04:00

Come see this very clean, extra large end unit, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home at Meridian Place on James Island. Many rooms have been recently painted, has a nice little fenced in yard and is just steps from the community tennis courts. Vacant & easy to show - just call CSS.

1515 Blaze Lane, James Island

$188,500, MLS# 2912434

Click here to see the VISUAL TOUR

James Island Listings

1009 Jamsie Cove Drive 662 Clearview Drive

$275,000 - VISUAL TOUR $240,000 - VISUAL TOUR

JUST REDUCED Eastwood - New Construction

403 Carol Street 747 Swanson Avenue

$249,500 - VISUAL TOUR $675,000 - VISUAL TOUR

620 Clearview Drive 21 Rivers Point Row, 8F

$275,000 - VISUAL TOUR $112,500 - VISUAL TOUR

584 Parrot Point Dr.

$615,000 - VISUAL TOUR

Search for Charleston SC at CHARLESTON SC HOMES or Search for Folly Beach Real Estate at FOLLY BEACH CONDOS

Call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 for a FREE relocation package for the area or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

James Island SC - New Listing in Clearview Neighborhood

2009-05-15T16:58:00.001-04:00

If you are looking for a wide open floor plan with plenty of bedrooms and baths, definitely go see 620 Clearview Drive. Check out the visual tour below to really see how open this home lives. It is also just a quick walk to the newly updated Sunrise Park with the new fishing pier and kayak dock.

620 Clearview Drive, James Island $275,000,

MLS# 2910107 Click here to see the VISUAL TOUR

James Island Listings

1009 Jamsie Cove Drive 662 Clearview Drive

$275,000 - VISUAL TOUR $240,000 - VISUAL TOUR

JUST REDUCED Eastwood - New Construction

403 Carol Street 747 Swanson Avenue

$249,500 - VISUAL TOUR $675,000 - VISUAL TOUR

1515 Blaze Lane 21 Rivers Point Row, 8F

$188,500 - VISUAL TOUR $112,500 - VISUAL TOUR

584 Parrot Point Dr. 1924 Telfair Way

$615,000 - VISUAL TOUR $215,000 - VISUAL TOUR

Call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Search for James Island or Folly Beach homes at James Island Real Estate - Folly Beach Real Estate

Home-Selling Mistakes to Avoid

2009-05-13T07:03:00.001-04:00

Common Home-Selling Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common things to make sure you avoid when selling your home. Buyers have the upper hand in today's market and sellers need to avoid common mistakes to get their home sold

Do not think your home is the exception - we are all emotionally attached to our homes and usually think they have special qualities but in most cases, all homes have something special which in the end, makes them all equal

Do not forget to scout out your competition - ask your agent to show you some competing homes before listing yours so you really know what is on the market and at what price that is similiar to your home.

Do not forget to check out your agent's references - a quality, professional listing agent is more important than ever during these times. Do not be afriaf to ask what they have accomplished in the last 30, 90 and 120 day time periods.

Do not forget to stage your home - even little things such as reducing the number of personal pictures can be the key to getting your home sold. Listen to your agent or bring in a professional stager to make sure your place looks its best.

Being present at open houses - DO NOT DO THIS PERIOD! Buyers do not want owners around during open houses or showings - they cannot speak freely and makes them very uncomfortable.

Do not take things personally - try not to take things personally about your house, people are going to insult it and make it look worse so they can get the price. At this point, try to just focus on the numbers.

Do not sneer at any offers - just getting an offer is like winning the lottery in today's market. Some lowball offers are just that but others can be a starting point to meaningful dialog. Always make a counter offer no matter how insulted you feel.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Charleston, SC or Folly Beach, SC contact Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667. Search for Charleston SC homes at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH or search for Folly Beach SC homes at FOLLY BEACH SC HOME SEARCH

Upcoming Pro Sports Events

2009-05-08T06:32:00.001-04:00

Professional Men's Rugby USA Men's National Team takes on Canada in World Cup Qualifier, Sat, July 4
www.usarugby.org USA RUGBY vs Canada at Blackbaud Stadium to be broadcast live on ESPN in HD. The game kicks off at 4 PM (EST) and is being played at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island, SC; the home of the USL First Division Charleston Battery. This is the first ever USA Rugby match to be broadcast on ESPN in HD and first full international Rugby match ever played in South Carolina. Tickets to this match are available at www.tickets.com starting at just $15 with discounts available for groups of 10 or more; for group sales please call (843) 971-4625.

Professional Women's Soccer USA Women's Team Scheduled for a 'Rematch' of 2008 Olympic Quarterfinal at Blackbaud Stadium, July 22 www.ussoccer.com The U.S. Women's National Team will play Canada on Wednesday, July 22, at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island, SC. In the last meeting between the teams, Natasha Kai scored an overtime game-winner in a 2-1 quarterfinal victory for US at 2008 Olympics in Shanghai on 8-15-08. The match in Charleston kicks off at 8 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on Fox Soccer Channel and online via ussoccer.com's MatchTracker. Ticket Prices:
$55 West Midfield, $38 East Midfield, $25 Sidelines Retail Outlets: All Charleston area Ticketmaster outlets (& Publix).

USA Beach Tennis BTUSA 2009 National Tour, local stop in August 22-23. The inaugural beach tennis tour launched in the spring of 2005 with an event in Charleston and then proceeded up the East Coast for the remainder of the summer. Capitalizing on the growing interest in alternative sports, Beach Tennis USA has created a fun, fast-paced and exciting hybrid sport that has captivated players and spectators alike. One of the 10 tour stops will be at the Windjammer, IOP, SC on August 22-23.
www.beachtennisusa.net *Former CofC men's tennis coach, Phil Whitesell has been a national champion and now, the "face" for the Beach Tennis USA. His photo has been used for brochures, trade booth displays, etc. for the new sport.

Thinking about moving to Charleston SC or finally buying that beach get-a-awy home, then call the Lowcountry Real Estate Pro - Randall Sandin - at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the entire Charleston MLS for FREE with WITHOUT registering at CHARLESTON SC PROPERTY SEARCH

May is Bike Month - Charleston SC

2009-05-08T06:23:00.000-04:00

The Month of May is National Bicycle Month and the City of Charleston is celebrating in many ways to encourage 'people on bikes'...

May 12- Bike Month Proclamation. Mayor Riley & City Council will announce the City's goal of becoming a Bicycle Friendly Community and pass a resolution proclaiming May as Bicycle Month. 5pm, City Hall.

May 13- GreenDrinks Meeting. Bike Valet provided by Holy City Bike Co-op 7pm-9pm at Yo Burrito, 77 Wentworth Street. www.GreenDrinksCharleston.blogspot.com

May 15- Bike to Work Day - Dust off that old bike and join others riding to work. On your way, stop by one of several commuter pit stops on your way to work for refreshments and a free bike safety check. Locations include West Ashley Greenway, King Street, Calhoun Street, and the Ravenel Bridge Bike/Ped Lane. More info at www.centuryV.net

May 16- Bike Central at the Charleston Farmer's Market. Take in the sights, sounds & food at the weekly Farmers Market at Marion Square. Bike valet, bike safety course, bike maintenance clinic, maps, smoothies & more! 8am-1pm.

May 17- The 2130 Lou Gehrig's Ride. This is a century ride (100 miles) through the lowcountry to benefit ALS research. More information at www.coastalcyclists.org

May 20- Ride of Silence. Annual National bicycle ride for all ages & users. Join other riders to raise awareness of bicycle safety & remember cyclists who were killed on the road. More info at www.coastalcyclists.org

For info on Charleston, South Carolina Real Estate please visit, CHRLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Land for Sale in Ravenel, SC - Charleston, SC

2009-05-06T06:26:00.000-04:00

Now Selling OAKWOOD ESTATES in Ravenel

If you have clients looking for buildable lots right outside Charleston with a quiet country setting then please come view Oakwood Estates in Ravenel. Take hwy 17 S to Ravenel, turn left on hwy 165 at the Hardees, turn left on Robinson and look for the sign.

14 lot development - Only 11 lots left

Lots are 1 acre plus

Prices from $42,421 and up

Lots surround a two acre pond

Preliminary septic approval letter in hand

Minimum 1500 sq. foot build size

No mobile homes or trailers allowed

Check out the following MLS listings: 2911677, 2907770, 2909953, 2909952, 2911683, 2907769

Please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email him at rsandin@carolinaone.com for more information.

Search for homes and land in Charleston SC at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

Top Ten Reasons to Live on James Island

2009-04-24T06:33:00.001-04:00

TOP TEN REASONS TO LIVE ON JAMES ISLAND, SC

If you are looking for a new place to live, make sure you check out James Island, South Carolina. Here are my Top 10 reasons to live on James Island in no random order.

lots of older established neighborhoods along with newer built home options

conveniently located just 10 minutes from historic Downtown Charleston and also 10 minutes from Folly Beach

a great county park with lots of family events including the Cajun Fest, Kayak Festival, Holiday Lights and more along with many smaller park areas

if you are a boating fan, easy access public boat landings

lots of opportunities to live in a home with water views, marsh views, etc

lots of great area local restaurants

fantastic grocery stores, we have 3 Piggly Wiggly stores, a new Super BI-LO along with a high end Publix & Harris Teeter

churches of every denomiation

friendly people who will welcome you to the community

NO SNOW!

This is just a start of a list of why James Island is a great place to live.

If you would like a copy of my relocation package which also includes information about other areas in Charleston, please email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com or you can request one at CHARLESTON RELOCATION PACKAGE

Search Charleston homes on my website at CHARLESTON MLS SEARCH

Getting Home Insurance in Charleston, SC

2009-04-22T06:04:00.000-04:00

Getting Insurance for your Home

Do not forget about that all important home insurance when you are looking for a first or new home. Make sure you get numerous quotes and different agents so you can find the coverage you need at the best possible rate. Here in Charleston SC, insurance can be a challenge especially if you are in the wind & hail pool areas. This designated areas require you to have the government mandated wind and hail policy along with your standard hazard policy and in many cases may require a flood policy or an earthquake policy. Yes, earthquake insurance, most people do not know that Charleston is on a major fault line and you can never be too safe with insurance on a home.

Some things you can do to reduce you insurance costs include the following:

bundle your policies (auot, home, life, etc) together to get the best possible rate

increase your deductible, a good tip here is to increase that deductible to $2500 or $5000 and then put that money into a savings account or CD that you can access easily so it is there and ready when you need it

add an alarm system or other updates that your provider gives discounts for having in a home

Also - if you are buying a condo or townhouse that is in a regime, do not forget about your contents insurance. This policy is generally called an HO6 Condo Rider. Usually the hazard policy of the regim just covers up the walls and you are responsible for everything else. Many time your lender will not even require this but it is a must have to protect your belongings.

Feel free to email me a rsandin@carolinaone.com or call me at 843-209-9667 and I will send you my list of preferred insurance providers.

Search for Charleston, SC real estate at CHARLESTON SC HOME SEARCH

$275,000 3 BD, 2.5 BA in Lawton Harbor on James Island - Charleston SC

2009-04-13T07:02:00.001-04:00

Looking for a great family home centrally located on James Island?

Then give us a call on 1009 Jamsie Cove Drive in Lawton Harbor.

Great price! Great condition! 1009 Jamsie Cove is centrally located on James Island and is in walking distance to Stiles Point elementary school without being in its traffic. Just around the corner you will find the City of Charleston Recreation center. This facility has a pool, gym and ball diamond to name a few of its features. Now enough about the great neighborhood, how about the home? The floor plan features a dining room, large living room and eat in kitchen. Upstairs is well laid out for the busy family. The two car garage is large with an additional storage area to the rear. You can actually fit your cars in this garage and still have room for your yard equipment! The yard will be easy to maintain with its irrigation system and large pine straw beds. If you have pets, the fenced in back yard is a bonus feature.

For your personal viewing of 1009 Jamsie Cove, please call Randall at 843-209-9667 or Matt at 843-830-0027.

Search all available Charleston home at SEARCH CHARLESTON SC HOMES

James Island - Clearview neighborhood - Great 4 BD, 3 Full BA home

2009-04-11T11:57:00.001-04:00

If you are looking on James Island for a large openb floor plan with plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms, make sure you check out 620 Clearview Drive. Call Randall today at 843-209-9667 for your personal showing or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

Search the for Charleston Homes at SEARCH CHARLESTON SC HOMES

Read all about James Island,SC real estate at JAMES ISLAND REAL ESTATE NEWS

Folly Beach - Sea & Sand Festival, April 18th

2009-04-10T06:16:00.002-04:00

Sea & Sand Festival - April 18th - Folly Beach, SC

The 18th annual Sea & sand Festival will be held on April 18th at Folly Beach. This year's event has been expanded and will include a FREE beach concert at 5pm featuring Gary Roland & the Land Sharks, a Jimmy Buffet tribute band.

Folly Park and Center Street will be packed with local artists, artisans, muscians - restaurants will selling food and beverages on the street. This will be a carnival like place from 10am to 5pm. There will also be a live and silent auctions with great deals on all kinds of stuff.

For the kids, there will be a climbing wall, face painting, pony rides, jump castle and more. Activities start that day with a 5k run/skate/walk and the festival will end at sunset on the beach with the free concert.

For info on Folly Beach Real Estate, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com. Email today for my update list of great buys on Folly Beach!

Search for Folly Beach & Charleston Real Estate at SEARCH CHARLESTON REAL ESTATE

34 plus acres w/ pond - Johns Island, SC

2009-04-05T10:47:00.000-04:00

34.84 acres on Johns Island - $600,000

property is located on Mary Ann Point Rd. right off of Main Road

34.84 acres w/ approx. 18 acres of wetlands

approx. 7 acre lake

much of high ground has already been cleared

zoned AG8

entrance has brick pillars and gate in place

lockbox is on right side of gate w/ key to open gate

call Matt or Randall for survey

You can reach Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

Search for Charleston SC Real Estate at SEARCH CHARLETON SC REAL ESTATE

Read my blog at RANDALL'S BLOG

Get updates on James Island Real Estate & local events at JAMES ISLAND REAL ESTATE NEWS

Watch out for Craigslist Rental Scam

2009-04-01T06:11:00.001-04:00

Watch out for a new Rental Scam on Craigslist

I recently had my personal rental property, 2128 Edisto Avenue, and all of a sudden, I got five calls yesterday about it being for rent at $700 per month when the rent is $1200 per month. Someone had taken the pictures off my post and reposted for $700 a month and created a fake yahoo email address that was similar to my name. Looks like if you email them, you can get a great deal as the tell the renter to overnight a deposit check and they will overnight back the keys. The person has left town and needs to rent the place right away. This is a scam!

For info on Charleston, South Carolina, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com

Search Charleston real estate at CHARLESTON SC REAL ESTATE

Get daily updates on James Island, SC - JAMES ISLAND SC REAL ESTATE & MORE

Charleston Event - Lowcountry Cajun Fest

2009-03-31T06:04:00.001-04:00

Lowcountry Cajun Fest - Sunday, April 5th, 2009, noon-6pm

If you are looking for a great time this Sunday, make sure you check out the Lowcountry Cajun Fest at the James Island County Park.

Celebrate Louisiana living and Charleston charm during the Lowcountry Cajun Festival at James Island County Park. Enjoy a full-day of Zydeco music, Cajun and Creole foods, children's activities and all around ragin' Cajun entertainment!

Full-bellied fun is what this festival is all about as local and regional chefs cook up a variety of mouth-watering foods. Savor the tastes of the South with authentic Cajun and Creole faire. Non-stop music throughout the day will keep your hips swingin' and toes tappin'. No outside food or beverages allowed. Pets are not permitted.

Tickets are $10 with gold pass holders and kids under 12 in for FREE.

For more info go to http://www.ccprc.com

For info on Charleston, SC real estate, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com.

OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, March 15th, 1-3pm 403 Carol St

2009-03-12T07:11:00.000-04:00

OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, March 15th, 1-3pm 403 Carol St - Woodland Shores Annex - Convenient James Island Location

Come see this recently revovated home located on the Charleston Municipal Golf Course. Here are some of the home's features:

-new roof
-new HVAC in 2006
-two large master suites
-hardwood floors and tiled baths
-appliances and washer/dryer units convey
-freshly painted
-new deck that overlooks golf course
-outside storage shed
-wired for invisible dog fencing

Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 for more info or directions. Email Randall at rsandin@carolinaone.com

Folly Beach Home Sales - Feb. 2009

2009-03-05T06:15:00.001-05:00

Folly Beach, SC Home sales - February 2009

Here is an overview of home sales on Folly Beach, SC for the month of February, 2009. as you can see only three sales happened during the month

166 Mariners Cay sold for $247,500

314 E. Cooper sold for $475,000

201 W. Arctic, #412 sold for $675,000

For more info on Folly Beach or Charleston SC real estate, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667, email at rsandin@carolinaone.com or search the entire MLS at SEARCH CHARLESTON MLS

Recent Testimonial from a Client

2009-03-04T14:38:00.002-05:00

Dear Randall,

I would like to express my gratitude for your exceptional service in helping me close on my recent property. This was not a typical closing and your thinking was creative and with your effort we were able to get the deal done! As you know, I have dealt with numerous real estate agents in the past with lack luster results. I was beginning to feel that all “agents” were the same. This is NOT the case with you!

This closing had many ups and downs and you provided solutions that made sense and helped save me money. With the current state of lending, this was not an easy task and took weeks to figure out! Even on the day of closing you caught a small mistake in the HUD statement.

I would recommend you to anyone that is looking for or selling property as you have gone above and beyond my expectations. Thanks Randall for your dedication and keeping all parties (seller and closer) on the same page throughout this process. You are the BEST agent I have ever worked with.

Sincerely,

John F.

For info on Charleston, SC real estate call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email Randall at rsandin@carolinaone.com

Price Reduction to $255,000 on James Island

2009-03-03T06:39:00.000-05:00

Put this home on your list of properties to view on James Island.

This home lives large with an open floor plan and a full 1/2 acre lot to grow into over the years. Home is in excellent condition with recent additions of a gas water heater and gas stove as long as the large master shower and hall tub being refinished.

Call Randall today at 843-209-9667 to schedule your personal showing of 662 Clearview Drive.

New Listings, 2/23-3/1, James Island, Johns Island & Folly Beach

2009-03-02T06:38:00.002-05:00

James Island, SC - New listings for 2/23/09-3/1/09

For last week, there were a total of 12 new listing on James Island in the Charleston, SC area.

Homes range from $100,000 for a 1 bedroom condo at the Peninsula to $649,000 for a nicely appointed home in Stiles Point Plantation. Below is a link for complete information on the new listings. The new listing in Ocean Neighbors is priced very well and I have been in the home and appears to be in very good condition.

For your personal showing of any of the properties, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com. Have a great week!

JAMES ISLAND - NEW LISTINGS

Folly Beach, SC - New listings for 2/23/09-3/1/09

For last week, there were only two new listings on Folly Beach, South Carolina.

First listing is a nice condo over on Little Oak Island. This gated community has its own tennis courts and pool and is a short drive to historic downtown Charleston.

Second listing is an older second row beach house. Listing sheet shows this may be a short sale situation as third party lender approval is required.

Below is a link for complete information on the new listings. For your personal showing of either of the properties, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com. Have a great week!

http://ctarmls.com/CharlestonReports/ListitLib/show_report.aspx?ID=1232381274

Johns Island, SC - New listings for 2/23/09-3/1/09

For last week, there were 10 new listings on Johns Island, South Carolina.

Of the 10 new listings for the week, 5 are condos in the Whitney Lake neighborhood. Whitney Lake is a planned community with 2 and 3 bedroom townhome style properties. There is a community pool area that is supposed to be built this summer. Right now the developer is offering great incentives including free upgrades and paid closing costs.

Another one of the new listings is a house in the Villages at St. Johns Woods. There has been a solid amount of activity in the neighborhood and one of my listings sold just a few weeks back. The Villages is a beautiful collection of traditional Lowcountry homes with large porches along with a side walks and a fantastic community pool.

Below is a link for complete information on the new listings. For your personal showing of ay of these properties or for more information, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com. Have a great week!

http://ctarmls.com/CharlestonReports/ListitLib/show_report.aspx?ID=1232381275

Charleston SC 2009 - Job Fair - March 10th

2009-02-27T06:16:00.001-05:00

Career Fair - Tuesday, March 10th, 2009

There will be a job/career fair on Tuesday, March 10th from 5:30pm-8pm at the Charleston Area Convention Center hosted by The Post & Courier. Here are some of the employers that will be participating:

Wild Dunes Resort
AVS
Detyens Shipyards
AmeriLife
LifeCareers
ecpi College
MMTC
New York Life
Synter Resource Group
DialAmerica
Centura College
For more info call 937-6000 and select option #5665

For info about Charleston, SC or Folly Beach, SC real estate call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or visit http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

January 2009 - James Island Real Estate Sales Info

2009-02-24T06:54:00.004-05:00

James Island, SC Home sales - January 2009

Here is the rundown on home sales on James Island, SC for the month of January, 2009

Total Sales: 19 properties

3 BD homes - 10 sales, avg price of $295,709

4+ BD homes - 5 sales, avg price of $347,824

Condos - 2 sales, avg price of $210,000

Average Days on Market: 116 days

Current Active listings on James Island

Single family - 360 active listings

Multi family - 5 active listings

Condos - 170 active listings

For more info on James Island or Charleston SC real estate, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667, email at rsandin@carolinaone.com.

$8000 Tax Credit Info

2009-02-24T06:13:00.002-05:00

$8,000 Tax Credit Now Available

First Time Homebuyers and Others Qualify

The "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009," passed the House and Senate on Friday, February 13,2009 and was signed into law by President Obama on February 16, 2009.

An $8,000 tax credit (NOT a loan) is now available to many homebuyers.

Quick Facts - Homebuyer Tax Credit
- Homebuyer must be a first time homebuyer OR have not owned a home for the past 3 years

- Purchase must be for a principle residence (no investment homes)

- Home must be purchased on or after January 1, 2009

- Does not require repayment as long as homebuyer stays in the home at least 3 years.

- Applies towards single family detached homes, condos, and townhomes.

- Income cannot be greater than $75,000 yearly for a single buyer, or $150,000 yearly for a married couple.

- Credit is for $8,000 or 10% of purchase price, whichever is less.

The credit is only available for a limited time.

What Does a Tax Credit Mean?
The credit reduces your tax liability, that is, the amount of taxes you are required to pay. Depending on your tax withholdings, you could get a bigger refund or owe less in taxes when you file.

For example:

If your total tax bill is $5000, you've withheld $4,000 throughout the year, and you qualify for the $8,000 tax credit, this is how your tax return might look.

$4,000 paid

-$5,000 owed

Owes $1,000.

Claim $8,000 tax credit.

Refund of $7,000.

In this case, the new homeowner would receive a check of $7,000 from the IRS after filing.

2009-02-20T04:53:00.006-05:00

Grand Oaks in West Ashley - Community Open House - Sunday, Feb 22, 1-3PM
Community Open House

We will have three houses open for viewing this Sunday, February 22nd from 1-3pm in the Grand Oaks neighborhood in West Ashley. We hope you and your clients can come by for a look. All three properties are in excellent condition and very clean.

1502 Whitby Lane - Grove Park Condos $147,500, MLS# 2901631 2 BD, 2 BA, open floor plan, screened porch

437 Sycamore Shade - Grand Oaks $310,000, MLS# 2822045 3 BD, 2 Ba, large FROG, fenced yard

451 Sycamore Shade - Grand Oaks $270,000, MLS# 2830530 3 BA, 2 BA, 2 car garage, screened porch

For more info on Charleston SC real estate, call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rasndin@carolinaone.com - search the Charleston MLS at http://www.charlestonpierpartnerscom

Info on the $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers

2009-02-19T06:20:00.001-05:00

So what does the package contain for the average homebuyer?

$8000.

Section 1006 (page 54 of the conference report) describes changes to Section 36 of the Internal Revenue Code modifying the previous homebuyer credit that had been enacted in October of 2008. Specifically, the following important changes have been made:

Credit has been increased: the original credit was limited to $7500 or 10% of the home's purchase price; this has been upped to $8000 or 10%.

Credit no longer requires repayment: a significant criticism of the original 2008 credit was its repayment requirement, as those taking the credit would be required to repay it over 15 years. That has been addressed in the new law so that repayment is now required only if the home is sold within the first 3 years.

Credit is now allowable for buyers using "revenue bond" funded mortgages: many state and local entities offer first-time homebuyer mortgage programs that sometimes offer terms more favorable than government or conventional mortgages. Previously those buyers had been prohibited from accepting the credit, however they may now claim it.

Time to purchase extended: the original credit was due to expire June 30th; the revision extends that to November 30th

Meanwhile, many components follow the original wording instituted last fall, specifically:

Credit is refundable: this means that a homebuyer who would otherwise owe no tax may still claim this credit and receive it as part of a tax refund

Credit is for first-time homebuyers only: sorry, move-up buyers, but you won't receive this credit; do expect many more first-time homebuyers to be looking at your house, which should help you sell more quickly, if you're priced correctly

Credit is income-limited: the legistlature didn't see fit to modify the terms of this program to allow all homebuyers to benefit, only those who haven't owned in the past 3 years

Finally, certain components are still somewhat unclear:

Credit may be retroactively claimed: the prior credit offered the option to claim as if the purchase took place 12/31/2008 even if it closed in the early parts of 2009. The final bill's language appears to replace this paragraph (page 122, Stat 2981, section 36 subsection g) with something unrelated, which may mean buyers will need to wait until 2010 to claim the credit.

In simple terms, first time home buyer who meet income guidelines get a FREE $8000...we will know son if you can claim it on this year's taxes or have to wait until your next year's returns.

To discuss more if this will help with you homebuying, please call me today at 843-209-9667 or email rsandin@carolinaone.com

Charming Home in Riverland Terrace - James Island

2009-02-17T15:22:00.001-05:00

Call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667 to view this classic English Country Style house in Riverland Terrace on James Island.

This home features hardwood floors, plenty of storage and quaint built-in shelves and cabinets in many rooms. The large lot has mature trees and is fenced in with a new 12' x 24' workshop. This home is priced at $299,900. Riverland Terrace is a charming neighborhood with restaurants just a short walk away along with a play park and boat landing.

Call Randall today at 209-9667 to view this lovely home.

Park Circle in North Charleston - 3 BD, 2BA in great shape - only $154,000

2009-02-17T06:37:00.002-05:00

Come visit this great home in the up and coming Park Circle area of North Charleston.

5040 N. Rhett Avenue - $154,000 - MLS # 2902332 - This home will be great for the first time buyer or investor! Newer renovations include the front porch and master bathroom were completed in 2006 and the sunroom and laundry area are about four years old. This home has been a great rental and would make for a wonderful home with its three bedrooms and two full baths.

For your personal showing, please call Randall Sandin today at 843-209-9667.

To search the Charleston MLS, please visit http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

2008 Award for Charleston Pier Partners

2009-02-16T10:51:00.000-05:00

I am pleased to announce that the Charleston Pier Partners team of Matt Poole & Randall Sandin received the "Platinum Circle Award" from Carolina One Real Estate at the 2008 awards ceremony.

Thanks to all of our clients who were the sole reason we received this award. We both look forward to a successful 2009 year in Charleston & Folly Beach real estate.

To search the Charleston MLS, go to http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com or call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 for all your Charleston real estate needs.

Jamestowne Village - 4 BD, 2.5 BA, $269,900

2009-02-13T14:52:00.004-05:00

Call me today at 843-209-9667 to view this 4 BD, 2.5 BA home in Jamestowne Village on James Island, SC. Here are some of the home's features: large downstairs master, located on the pond with fenced in yard, open floor plan, all rooms have walk-in closets and a great location in the heart of James Island.

Call Randall at 843-209-9667 to see this home today or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com

$15,000 Price Reduction in Grand Oaks - Charleston, SC

2009-02-12T06:40:00.002-05:00

Check out this price reduction in the Grand Oaks Subdivision - this lik enew home is only $270,000 and awaiting new owners!

For info on Chaleston, SC real estate call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667

Mepkin Abbey Monks to Raise Mushrooms

2009-02-10T11:32:00.002-05:00

Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner to grow Mushrooms instead of selling eggs

The 40 year tradition of raising and selling eggs as been replaced with oyster mushrooms at the Moncks Corner monastery. As many people are aware, PETA raised a big stink about the handling of the chickens at the Mepkin Abbey monastery. So to calm things down, the monks have moved to growing and selling oyster mushrooms.

Piggly Wiggly officials said the mushrooms will be sold at the Piggly Wiggly stores at 100 W. Main St. in Moncks Corner and 1981 Riviera Drive in Mount Pleasant and at Newton Farms on Johns Island. The mushrooms will also be sold to local restaurants such as Slightly North of Broad, High Cotton, McCrady’s, Cypress and Anson.

For info on Charleston, SC or Folly Beach, SC real estate contact Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or visit http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com to search the entire Charleston MLS

Clearview Neighborhood Open House - 2/8, 1-3pm

2009-02-06T06:01:00.000-05:00

There will be a community open house in the Clearview neighborhood on James Island this Sunday, Feb 8th from 1-3pm. Please stop by or send your clients to view the following homes.

662 Clearview - Clearview Neighborhood
$273,000, MLS# 2901627
3BD, 2BA, 1400 sq. feet
Randall Sandin, 843-209-9667
rsandin@carolinaone.com

663 Beauregard - Clearview Neighborhood
$275,000, MLS# 2834428
4BD, 2BA, 2056 Sq. feet
John Grisillo, 843-270-3692
jgrisillo@carolinaone.com

661 McCutchen - Clearview Neighborhood
$275,000, MLS# 2828798
4 BD, 2BA, 1893 sq. feet
Matt Poole, 843-830-0027
mpoole@carolinaone.com

743 Colette - Clearview Neighborhood
$340,000, MLS# 2902562
4 BD, 2BA, 2161 sq. feet
Ursula Erichsen, 843-696-2346
uerichsen@carolinaone.com

747 Tennant - Clearview Neighborhood
$345,000, MLS# 2824168
4 BD, 2 BA, 2030 sq. feet
Brian Kline, 843-437-1487
bkline@carolinaone.com

779 Clearview - Clearview Neighborhood
$370,000, MLS# 2826427
4 BD, 2.5 BA, 2150 sq. feet
Jane Barr, 843-276-9930
jbarr@carolinaone.com

Take Advantage of the Public Library

2009-02-05T06:59:00.001-05:00

As everyone looks to cut corners financially, do not forget about the great resource we have here in Charleston County - our public library system. Here are a few great reasons to go to the library.

Why pay $4 for a movie rental when you can pick one up for free and keep it for a week at the library?

Why buy a new book when you can get it at the library for free?

There is free computer access at all locations.

There are great programs for children and adults - why spend $40 going to the movies when you can enjoy great stuff at the library for free.

Pick up books on tape and enjoy listening in your car.

You can read the paper there or browse just about any magazine you can think of.

Here is a list of our local Charleston County Libraries:

Main - 68 Calhoun

Cooper River - 3503 Rivers Ave.

John Dart - 1067 King St.

Dorchester - 6325 Dorchester Road

Edisto - 1589 Hwy 174

Folly Beach - 55 Center St.

James Island - 1248 Camp Road

Johns Island - 3531 Maybank Hwy.

McClellanville - 222 Baker St.

Mt. Pleasant - 113 Mathis Ferry Rd.

Otranto Road - 2261 Otranto Rd.

Edgar Allan Poe - 1921 I'On Ave.

St. Andrews - 1735 N. Woodmere Dr.

St. Paul's - 5131 Town Council Dr.

Village - 430 Whilden St.

West Ashley - 45 Windemere Blvd.

Search for Charleston, SC and Folly Beach, SC Real Estate at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com or call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667

7 Things to Know about Refiancing

2009-02-04T06:40:00.001-05:00

With mortgage rates at record lows, many people are looking to refinance. Here are 7 things you need to know in today's market.

-Percentage Point break - a good rule of thumb is that the rate needs to be a full percentage point less than your current rate.
-Half rejected - with so many people looking to refinance and the tight credit market, do not expect to be automatically approved even if you do have a lot of equity in your home.
-FICO scores - 720 used to be the Gold Standard, now they are looking for 740 and above to get the best rate. Lower FICO scores equal a higher interest rate.
-Equity & Documentation - equity is key and you must be able to document the equity and will also have to document your income and assets.
-Fee Paying Options - fees range widely depending on each lender and look out for lenders adding in buy down points to get you that super rate. If it takes more than two years to pay back the closing cost amount with the monthly savings, it may not be worth it.
-Shop around - things are changing daily so if one lenders says no there may be another that says yes.
-Be patient - with the wave of refinancing there is a back log of loans so it may take some time to get the loan approved and closed.
Here are two lender contacts that I recommend to my clients. Feel free to mention my name if you give them a call.

Joel Greer - Carolina One Mortgage 843-414-2489, joel.greer@gbmail.com

Ted Honney - First Federal 843-708-0250, thonney@firstfederal.com

Search Charleston, SC and Folly Beach, SC Real Estate at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com or log on to get our FREE Relocation package or FREE foreclosures updates

Call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 for more info about the Charleston area

FREE Foreclosure and Lender Owned Property Info

2009-02-02T06:47:00.003-05:00

In the very near future, I will be adding a new link to our website, http://www.charlestonpierparnters.com and to my blogs on a new service we will be offering for FREE.

If you want to be updated on lender owned properties that are coming on the market or the current list of foreclosure homes, just send me an email with your name and email address. We will be sending out this information on a daily basis as it becomes public knowledge.

So to get our FREE Foreclosure & Lender Owned Update - just email your info to rsandin@carolinaone.com

Thanks and have a great week

James Island / Charleston SC - Great Eastwood Neighborhood Home

2009-01-31T16:12:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for a great home in the Eastwood area of James Island, this is the one. Nice lot with many trees, 3 year old pool, chef's kitchen and more.

For your private showing, please call Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

Search the entire Charleston MLS at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

2008 South Carolina Housing Market Statistics

2009-01-29T07:30:00.002-05:00

Below is a general look at all the local areas in South Carolina. Please remember this is a broad view point and real estate is very localized so the numbers may not be truly accurate for your individual home. The key point I see here is that across the board, sales were down but the average price of the homes was just down a little. This shows that overall South Carolina has held up well so far during this economic period.

Charleston Trident
Sales: down 31.2%, 7933 sold
Median Price: down 4% to $202,000
Average Days on Market: up 26.6%, 118 days

Greater Columbia
Sales: down 20.6%, 8446 sold
Median Price: down 1.7% to $143,000
Average Days on Market: up 14.7%, 98 days

Greater Greenville
Sales: down 19.6%, 7529 sold
Median Price: up 2.5% to $152,000
Average Days on Market: up 6.7%, 94 days

Coastal - Myrtle Beach
Sales: down 28.1%, 5616 sold
Median Price: down 11.7% to $177,000
Average Days on Market: down 11%, 195 days

Piedmont - Rock Hill
Sales: down 27.4%, 2837 sold
Median Price: down 2.5% to $157,000
Average Days on Market: up 12.2%, 136 days

Statewide Numbers
Sales: down 24%, 46,914 sold
Median Price: down 3.5% to $154,000
Average Days on Market: up 5%, 145 days

If you would like numbers on your specific area or neighborhood please give me a call at 843-209-9667 or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com

-Source: SC Realtors

Charleston SC - Top 25 Strongest Housing Market

2009-01-26T07:14:00.003-05:00

What a nice surprise we received in Charleston, SC real estate market this week when our little community was named one of the top 25 strongest housing markets by Forbes magazine. They say we should see the bottom of this market by the end of the year and to only expect another 1.1% in price drops. I am not quite sure how they compile there information but sure hope they are correct. Business and activity has been picking up since the first of the years as prices are at 2005/06 levels and interest rates are still low.

For information on the Charleston and Folly Beach real estate markets, contact Randall Sandin at 843-209-9667 or via email at rsandin@carolinaone.com. Search the entire Charleston Real Estate MLS by clicking the link in the uppe right hand corner of this page.

Folly Beach - Great place to live or own a second home

2009-01-25T10:45:00.003-05:00

Folly Beach - A colorful sea community known as "The Edge of America" is a melting pot of personalities and characters. Homes, condos and villas are available and are populated by a mix of year-round residents, seasonal residences and vacationers. Some popular spots include Morris Island Lighthouse and the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. A downtown strip of restaurants, bars and shops offers plenty of enjoyment for all. Click here to view current listings.

If you are looking to make the move to the beach lifestyle or want that perfect second home, give Randall Sandin at call at 843-209-9667, email at rsandin@carolinaone.com or search for Folly Beach homes at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Be Wary of those HUGE Price Reductions

2009-01-23T05:31:00.002-05:00

As I check the MLS updates throughout the day, some of the price reductions just stun me. I was just checking the MLS just a few minutes ago and saw reductions from $5000 to $50,000 to even $900,000 for a place down in Edisto. It makes you wonder about why more homes are not selling with all these huge daily price reductions. it is pretty simple, the houses were way OVERPRICED from the beginning. Be very cautious not to let a price reduction get you to excited - this may be simply getting the house into the proper price range. Make sure you have a agent that does not encourage you due to the reductions, you have to know the current sold numbers and also history on the house to find that value. And in today's market you never realy know the seller's true movtivation until you put something on paper.

A Taste of Folly Festival - Folly Beach, SC Sat., 1/24, noon-5pm

2009-01-22T06:52:00.003-05:00

A Taste of Folly Festival, Saturday, Jan 24th, noon-5pm

Come out for a great time at Folly Beach this Saturday. Events will include an oyster roast, Folly Beach chili cook-off, Bert's Market hot dog eating contest and bake sale. There will be live music by the Oscar Rivers Trio and the blues trio Walkin' Mike Wolk.

Folly Beach merchants and restaurants will have booths offering their wares and portions from their menus.

For the kids there will be a 20-foot inflatable slide, face-painting, balloon animals and cup-cake decorating.

The event will take place on Center Street and the street will be blocked off to traffic from Ashley to Hudson avenues. To sign up for the chili cook-off or the hot dog eating contest, stop by Bert's or Planet Follywood.

To search Folly Beach, SC or Charleston, SC real estate, click the link in the upper right hand corner of this page or visit our main website at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

New Listing - Clearview Neighborhood on James Island

2009-01-22T06:10:00.003-05:00

Make sure you check out this great home in the Clearview neighborhood of James Island - Charleston, SC. View our main website at http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Charleston SC Boat Show - Jan23-25, 2009

2009-01-18T15:06:00.001-05:00

The 29th Annual Charleston Boat Show

The Charleston Area Convention Center and Coliseum

Friday, January 23, 2009 – Noon-6:00pm
Saturday, January 24, 2009 – 10:00am-7:00pm
Sunday, January 25, 2009 – 11:00am-6:00pm

To experience the greatest nautical event of the Lowcountry!

Don’t miss the latest models and newest trends in the industry!
Boats will be packed inside and around the
Charleston Area Convention Center and Coliseum.
There will be a variety of Special Events and Seminars during The Show to entertain the young and the old, the novice boater and the experienced!

$9.00 - Kids 12 and under FREE!

http://www.thecharlestonboatshow.com

Grand Oaks in Charleston, SC - great home for sale!

2009-01-16T06:03:00.001-05:00

Work Like a Dog Each Day

2009-01-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

I saw a great article the other day about traits that dogs have in their lives that all realtors and everyone else in the world could use. Here are the top five that I liked best and how I see them:

Trust your instincts - go with you gut even if the words being said are something different. Your first instinct on something is usually correct. Pay attention to non-verbal clues such as body language and energy.

Be direct & consistent in your communication - Our words and actions need to be clear and consistent at all times. The last thing a client wants, or more importantly trusts, is an agent who gives mixed signals or different answers to the same questions.

Live with a purpose - Boredom can bring us down. Find your purpose in life and how you want to work your job. Contribute more to your family and your local community.

Learn to listen - many of us, me included, spend too much time talking and not enough listening to the needs and wants of our clients. Program that little voice in your brain to make you think for a second before you speak.

Celebrate each day - Every day is the best day for a dog and it should be for us as well. Live them crap behind and celebrate the great things in your life.

Hope you get a little from the above, I am going to try to think like a dog each day.

Search for Charleston real estate at http://www.charlestonpierparnters.com

Neighborhood Focus Charleston SC - Clearview on James Island

2009-01-13T06:37:00.001-05:00

Clearview neighborhood on James Island - Located at the end of Harborview Road on James Island, Clearview is an established neighborhood with an abundance of mature trees and large yards. Both lake living and waterfront homes are available. Walk or bike to nearby Sunset Park or the James Island Yacht Club and enjoy the beautiful views of the Charleston Harbor. In 2009, enjoy the new fishing pier and kayak landing that is being installed at Sunset Park. The Clearview community is close to neighborhood schools, shopping, medical facilities and recreational amenities. Only ten homes are currently listed and prices range from $225,000 to $895,000. Call me at 843-209-9667 for a tour of the area. Click here to view current listings.

Randall Sandin, rsandin@carolinaone.com

843-209-9667, Carolina One Real Estate

http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

OPEN HOUSE, James Island, 775 Willow Lake, Sunday, 1/11, 1-3pm

2009-01-09T14:48:00.003-05:00

Stop by and view this great Eastwood home on Sunday from 1-3pm.

775 Willow Lake in the Eastwood neighborhood on James Island

Here are just some of the features of this home:

hardwood floors
Chef's kitchen with granite counters
large FROG used as 4th bedroom
open living area
formal dining room
large laundry room
2 car garage
large storage shed with power
pool with fenced yard & screened porch

I look forward to seeing you there and please call me at 209-9667 with any questions.

new FHA Loan Limits in Charleston, SC

2009-01-09T07:01:00.001-05:00

FHA loan limits have been changed for the Charleston, SC area. The new maximum loan is now $309,000 and the new down payment requirement is 3.5% instead of 3%. The buyer can still ask the seller to pay for closing costs, pre-paid items, etc. but must have 3.5% to put down on the house.

FHA loans are a great option for people with credit scrores under 700 and those who do not have the traditional 5-20% to put down on a home. They are much more flexible on these items and you still get a very good interest rate, currently around 5-5.5% (as of 1/8/09). Also, in the past, inspections were a little difficult as the FHA loan had more requirements. Those have been greatly relaxed and even though you still have to use an FHA approved inspector, it is not a major issue in today's market.

If you want more info on FHA loans, please give me a call at 843-209-9667 or email me at rsandin@carolinaone.com and I will get you in touch with one of my preferred lenders.

Randall Sandin

Search all homes in Charleston, SC - http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com

Still Selling Homes in Charleston, SC

2009-01-08T07:10:00.002-05:00

Charleston Pier Partners (Matt Poole & Randall Sandin) in Charleston, SC are still getting homes sold in this crazy market. Check out the listings that we closed in Nov & Dec, 2008.

Folly Beach - 111 East Arctic, unit #302 - beachfront, 3 bed/3 bath condo sold for $594,000 - this was the ONLY closed transaction on Folly Beach in December 2008.

James Island - 727 Swanson Avenue in the Eastwood neighborhood - closed in November for $450,000

1530 Fort Johnson, unit 4L - this unit sold for $73,000, we got this condo sold even with litigation going on against the builder!

If you are looking to sell in this challenging market, call Randall Sandin with Charleston Pier Partners at 843-209-9667 or email at rsandin@carolinaone.com

Click here to see our website, http://www.charlestonpierpartners.com/

Search for Charleston SC Real Estate and Folly Beach SC Real Estate

Just Sold another home in Charleston, SC

Saks comes back to Charleston, Sc

JUST SOLD on Johns Island

Wild Dunes Resort: 3 BD, 2 BA, walk to beach for $525,000, call Randall at 843-209-9667

West Ashley condo reduced to $94,500

Charleston SC Condo - great condition & NOT a short sale

James Island ~~ 4 BD, 2 BA, new price of $189,900

JUST LISTED: Folly Beach, SC ~~ secluded beach house ~~ $675,000

Testimonial from a new Client for Randall Sandin, Realtor, Charleston SC

Single Family Home for under $160,000 on James Island, SC

Flood Insurance to Expire Again on 5/31/2010

JUST LISTED ~~ High End Johns Island Home ~~Tidal Creek w/ Dock

NEW BLOG ADDRESS

JUST SOLD - 403 Carol on James Island

Folly Beach, SC ~~ JUST LISTED ~~ Classic beach home just one block from the ocean

NEW LISTING - Mira Vista on James Island, SC - NOT a short sale!!

2010 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

James Island, SC ~~ Town Council Update

Charleston SC - 2009 Real Estate Market Summary

Carolina One Real Estate helps Haiti Relief

Charleston SC Condo - great condition & NOT a short sale

Charleston, SC - Market Stats for Dec., 2009

Just Listed - 1345 Palm Cove, Charleston, SC 29492

Real Estate Blog link

2009 Food Drive

747 Swanson Ave. featured in Post & Courier

Wild Dunes Resort - Major Price Reduction

Red Flags from the Home Inspection

Mornings at Folly Beach, South Carolina

SOLD on James Island, SC

North Charleston Condo ~~ Price Reduction

Charleston SC - Holiday Festival of Lights

James Island SC - Price Reduction - Eastwood Neighborhood

How Negative Items Affect your Credit Score

Boeing comes to Charleton, SC

Another home SOLD on James Island

Charleston SC - Weekend Fun

James Island Lot - Cleared w/ Grand oaks & Marsh Views

McLeod Plantation, the last of 17 antebellum plantations on James Island, faces an uncertain future

Home Buyer Tax Credit Extended

James Island - New Listing - Lakefront for $267,500

Wild Dunes Resort - Price Reduction on 3 BD, 2 BA home

Downtown Charleston SC - Major Price Reductions

James Island SC - Price Reduction

Short Sale & Foreclosure Offers

James Island Open House - Sunday August 2nd, 2-4pm

Elliotborough in Downtown Charleston, built in 1895

Price Reduction in Park Circle - North Charleston

Price Reduction in Clearview on James Island

New Listing on Johns Island

June Baseball Schedule - Charleston Riverdogs

OPEN HOUSE - 6/7/09 on James Island

James Island - Meridian Place new listing - $188,500

James Island SC - New Listing in Clearview Neighborhood

Home-Selling Mistakes to Avoid

Upcoming Pro Sports Events

May is Bike Month - Charleston SC

Land for Sale in Ravenel, SC - Charleston, SC

Top Ten Reasons to Live on James Island

Getting Home Insurance in Charleston, SC

$275,000 3 BD, 2.5 BA in Lawton Harbor on James Island - Charleston SC

James Island - Clearview neighborhood - Great 4 BD, 3 Full BA home

Folly Beach - Sea & Sand Festival, April 18th

34 plus acres w/ pond - Johns Island, SC

Watch out for Craigslist Rental Scam

Charleston Event - Lowcountry Cajun Fest

OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, March 15th, 1-3pm 403 Carol St

Folly Beach Home Sales - Feb. 2009

Recent Testimonial from a Client

Price Reduction to $255,000 on James Island

New Listings, 2/23-3/1, James Island, Johns Island & Folly Beach

Charleston SC 2009 - Job Fair - March 10th

January 2009 - James Island Real Estate Sales Info

$8000 Tax Credit Info

Info on the $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers

Charming Home in Riverland Terrace - James Island

Park Circle in North Charleston - 3 BD, 2BA in great shape - only $154,000

2008 Award for Charleston Pier Partners

Jamestowne Village - 4 BD, 2.5 BA, $269,900

JUST LISTED: Folly Beach, SC secluded beach house $675,000

JUST LISTED High End Johns Island Home Tidal Creek w/ Dock

Folly Beach, SC JUST LISTED Classic beach home just one block from the ocean