Finance Options When Purchasing A New Home

Tue, May 8th 2018 6:18 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Real Estate Tips

Assumptions May be an Alternative


For the last 25 years, most buyers have gotten a new mortgage or paid cash when purchasing a home. For a practical reason, owner-occupant buyers have another alternative: assuming a lower interest rate existing FHA or VA mortgage.

In the late 80’s, both FHA and VA began requiring buyers to qualify to assume their mortgages. Prior to that, good credit or even a job wasn’t required. The real reason there haven’t been significant numbers of assumptions in the past 25 years is that interest rates have been steadily going down. If a person had to qualify, they might as well do it on a new loan and get a lower interest rate.

Even though mortgage money is cur...



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108 Blue Crab Lane Charleston Waterfront Home For Sale

Fri, Oct 13th 2017 10:59 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 108 Blue Crab Lane
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108 Blue Crab Lane
Charleston, SC

MLS# 17025623 - Residential

Incredible opportunity to purchase a secluded Waterfront Two Acre Estate with panoramic views of the Cooper River from every level. This home faces west so you can enjoy spectacular sunsets with unencumbered views. The grand foyer is detailed with 20 foot ceiling, Mahogany door, and inlaid marble floor. The living room has amazing views and features built in bookcases and a gas fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is open to a keeping room large enough for a table with Cherry cabinets, granite counters, stainless appliances, and a private office space. The main living level also includes the master suite, powder bath, forma...



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June Real Estate Market Update

Fri, Jul 21st 2017 7:21 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston Real Estate Market

Midyear Sales Show A Slowed But Consistent Pace for Charleston-area Residential Real Estate

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CHARLESTON, SC—(July 10, 2017) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,987 homes sold in June in the region at a median price of $260,000. Last June, 1,936 homes sold at a median price of $250,000.

After starting the year with significant growth, particularly in terms of median price, the market trajectory seems to be leveling off to a more sustainable level six months in, notably during what is typically one of the busiest periods of the year. Year-to-date, 9,285 homes have sold in the region at a median price of $250,000. Sales ...



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Charleston Real Estate Market Report April 2017

Thu, May 11th 2017 5:53 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston Real Estate Market

Residential Real Estate Market Remains Consistent as “Buying Season” Heats Up

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CHARLESTON, SC—(May 10, 2017) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,514 homes sold in April in the region at a median price of $248,500. Last April, 1,478 homes sold at a median price of $239,700.

Year-to-date, 5,481 homes have sold in the region at a median price of $248,500. Sales volume in the region is up about 9% compared to 2016, with median price about 6% higher than this point last year.

Inventory has declined about 17% over the last 12-month period, with 5,198 homes listed as “active” for sale in the Charleston Trident Multiple List...



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February 2017 Charleston Market Report

Sun, Mar 19th 2017 11:10 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston Real Estate Market

Home Sales And Median Price Continue Upward Trends

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CHARLESTON, SC—(March 10, 2017) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,261 homes sold in February in the region at a median price of $241,000. Last February, 1,098 homes sold at a median price of $236,484. For more than a year, home sales have consistently exceeded 1,000 closings per month, indicating stability for this pace of sales in our regional market.

Year-to-date, 2,294 homes have sold in the region at a median price of $240,000. The year-to-date median price for all three counties now exceeds $200,000.

Inventory has declined about 20% over the last 12-month per...



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January 2017 Charleston Real Estate Market Report

Mon, Feb 13th 2017 8:29 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston Real Estate Market

January Home Sales Exceed 1k For The First Time in A Decade

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CHARLESTON, SC—(February 10, 2017) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,029 homes sold in January in the region at a median price of $238,900. Last January, 972 homes sold at a median price of $218,020.  This marks the twelfth consecutive month that sales in the region have surpassed 1,000 homes and the first time in a decade that January sales have exceeded that benchmark.

Comparing the first month of 2017 to last year, sales volume has increased 6% and buyers are paying 9.5% more for homes in the region than they did last year.

Inventory has declined about...




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September 2016 Charleston Real Estate Market Report

Tue, Oct 18th 2016 4:22 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston Real Estate Market

Sales Slow Slightly in September, Median Price Passes $200k in all Three Counties

CHARLESTON, SC—(October 13, 2016) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,608 homes sold in September in the region at a median price of $243,457. Sales volume declined slightly but the regional median price is up from last month. In September 2015, 1,456 homes sold at a median price of $234,250. This data reflects a 10% increase in sales volume and 4% growth in median price, comparing last September to this September.

homes-soldYear-to-date figures show 13,675 homes sold in 2016 at a median price of $240,000 in our area. Comparing year-to-date figures...



Problems Home Inspections Often Miss

Wed, Oct 12th 2016 9:00 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Real Estate Tips

A home inspection is a part of any home buying experience, and it can make or break your home sale. However, your home inspection report doesn’t always give you the full story; there are occasionally issues that aren’t found or aren’t necessarily required to be checked out during the inspection. Here are a few areas to get double checked when buying a home.

1. Roofing

Sometimes roof leaks and other shingle-related issues can slip through the cracks. This is because the inspector is not required to do a physical examination of the roof. Instead, their evaluation is based only on what they can see from the ground or out of windows that look down onto part of the roof. It’s recommended t...



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How to Save on Homeowners Insurance

Wed, Sep 28th 2016 4:07 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Real Estate Tips

As a homeowner, you can pay nearly (or over) a thousand dollars on homeowners insurance every year. And as necessary as it is, it’s still nice to save money where you can. Here are a few ways that you can cut down costs on your homeowners insurance.

1. Bundle.

If you own a car, then you also need auto insurance. Many insurance companies, including Allstate and Progressive, will offer you a discount if you bundle multiple policies together. These discounts can range from anywhere from 10-20%, depending on your coverage and your provider. This way, you’re cutting costs on both your homeowners insurance and your auto insurance.

2. Raise your deductible.

Your deductible is the amount of...



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Top 5 Golf Courses in Charleston

Wed, Sep 14th 2016 9:00 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Things To Do in Charleston SC

Top 5 Golf Courses in Charleston

If you’re an avid golfer, then your dream neighborhood is probably going to be near a golf course. In order to help you narrow down your choices, we’ve put together a list of Charleston’s top golf courses. (Because trust us, you’re not alone in your love for golf down here!)

1. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island

Rated 25th among the 100 Greatest US Golf Courses, this is not a course you’ll want to miss. The par-72 Ocean Course was home to the 2012 PGA Championships, and boasts more seaside holes than any other golf course in the country.

2. Crooked Oaks at Seabrook Island

Crooked Oaks is a 6,780-yard, par-72 course located on beautiful Seabrook Island. Golf on a course that is surrou...



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Wagener Terrace Charleston Neighborhood Real Estate Spotlight

Thu, Sep 8th 2016 3:39 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Downtown Charleston Neighborhoods

Hampton Park

Charleston is filled with so many wonderful neighborhoods. Today, I wanted to take a moment and highlight Wagener Terrace. It has a special place in my heart since it is where I call home. I have lived in the neighborhood for about 15 years and cannot imagine living anywhere else. I have sold numerous homes in Wagener Terrace over the years and consider myself a resident expert.

 

Wagener Terrace lies along the Ashley River. The Southern Boundary is Hampton Park, which is just outside of The Citadel gates; both boast their own rich history. The Eastern Boundary is Rutledge Avenue. Wagener Terrace was part of Orange Grove Plantation that was owned by Captain F.W. Wagner and is still ho...



4 Signs You Need a New Agent

Wed, Aug 31st 2016 2:54 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Real Estate Tips

4 Signs You Need a New Agent

Selling your home is hard work. Most people know that in order to sell their home quickly, without stress (or at least as little as possible), and for the best value, you’re going to need a real estate agent. But what do you do if you feel like your agent isn’t really working for you? Finding a good agent is tough, and it may seem like you’re stuck. You’re not. You can--and should--find a new agent if yours is not getting you the results they promised or that you’re looking for. Here are a few signs you need a new agent, and soon.

1. Your home isn’t selling, and it seems like your agent isn’t trying.

If your home has been on the market for weeks without a single bite, showing, call, o...




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7/11 Day in Charleston

Mon, Jul 11th 2016 1:42 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog Charleston SC

It's 7/11 Day also known as Free Slurpee Day!  Just hearing that on the news this morning brought back so many fun childhood memories of walking from my house down the secret path in Quail Arbor in Summerville with my friends to the 7/11 to get a slurpee or other candy.  One of my other favorites was the Fun Dip packets.  Who remembers those?  I was sad to see it bordered up last time I drove by.  I hope a new place goes in there soon.  Sure would make a great place for a coffee shop!

All of this brings up recent conversations that I have had with friends and clients regarding the difference in growing up in the 70's and 80's versus today.  I don't think kids today would even want to wal...




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561 Little Barley Lane, MLS #16015917, Charleston SC Home for Sale

Mon, Jun 20th 2016 5:03 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 561 Little Barley Lane
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561 Little Barley Lane
Charleston, SC

MLS# 16015917 - Residential

Elegance abounds in this stunning home situated on a pristine marsh front lot. This is an amazing opportunity to purchase a custom builders personal home with all of the bells and whistles. It is rare to find a single level home with this quality of construction and attention to detail. You will love the impressive crushed shell driveway with brick detail and double curved brick staircase to the front porch with wrought iron. Step inside and note the Tahitian Teak floors, bullnose walls, high baseboards, and heavy crown molding that you will find throughout the home. Step through the mahogany French doors to the imp...



2318 Marsh Lake Court, MLS 16015992, Charleston SC Home for Sale

Fri, Jun 17th 2016 3:27 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 2318 Marsh Lake Court
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2318 Marsh Lake Court
Charleston, SC

MLS# 16015992 - Residential

What a wonderful opportunity to purchase a home on a beautiful marsh front lot. The downstairs features hardwood floors. Foyer has dental molding and a large coat closet. The living room offers vaulted ceilings, marsh views, a gas fireplace with marble surround and a white mantle. The dining room is open to the kitchen with crown molding and arched entry detail. The spacious galley style kitchen has a large breakfast area with a bay window, white cabinets, stainless appliances, brick backsplash, and granite tile counters. Powder bath is off the kitchen. The laundry room has extra storage cabinets and garage access. T...



3751 Beach Court, MLS 16015019, Charleston SC Home for Sale

Sat, Jun 11th 2016 6:15 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 3751 Beach Court
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3751 Beach Court
Johns Island, SC

MLS# 16015019 - Residential

Incredible opportunity to purchase a completely renovated turnkey rental property with incredible ocean views and great beach access. Step into the tiled foyer and be delighted with the reverse floor plan that takes advantage of the ocean views. The main living level is bright and sunny with brand new wood floors and an open floor plan. The living room features a vaulted ceiling, dramatic views, ceiling fan, a fireplace, and access to the deck and screen porch. The dining room is open with a bay window and great views. The kitchen is any chef's dream with new white cabinets, quartz counters, tile backsplash, eat at bar,...



222 S Plaza Court, MLS 16013020, Mt Pleasant SC Home for Sale

Fri, May 20th 2016 9:47 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 222 S Plaza Court
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222 S Plaza Court
Mount Pleasant, SC

MLS# 16013020 - Residential

Welcome Home to this amazing condo with beautiful views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge from almost every room. Enter your private foyer with marble floors and note your elevator access to the parking garage. You will love the magnificent feel as soon as you see the beautiful living space, bamboo flooring, and brand new kitchen. The living room is open with access to the patio, crown molding, a gas fireplace with granite detail and tiled wall, and chandelier. The dining area is open as well with plantation shutters and patio access. The renovated kitchen is a chef's dream with lots of cabinets and counter...



725 Bounty Square, MLS 16003854, Charleston SC Home for Sale

Wed, Apr 6th 2016 9:17 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 725 Bounty Square
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725 Bounty Square Drive
Charleston, SC

MLS# 16003854 - Residential

Look no further than this exquisite home with amazing views of the Wando River. As soon as you come up the shell driveway with circular detail and see the magnificent Mahogany front doors you will know you have found your home. The impressive two-story foyer features a curved staircase and antique sconces and chandelier. The formal living room is detailed with a coffered ceiling, gas fireplace with brick surround, chandelier, and wainscoting. The formal dining room offers a crystal chandelier, built in walnut china cabinet, sconces, surround sound, wainscoting, and a glass door to the kitchen. The spacious family r...



3713 Bonita Court, MLS 16007361, Johns Island SC Home for Sale

Mon, Apr 4th 2016 11:26 am by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 3713 Bonita Court
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3713 Bonita Court
Johns Island, SC

MLS# 16007361 - Residential

Wonderful opportunity to own an incredible home with Ocean Views from almost every room. The original owner completely renovated the house in 2001 to include cement plank exterior, roof, kitchen, and more. Follow the tabby walkway to the front entrance and when you step inside you will love the Brazilian Cherry floors and great views. The sunken formal living room is huge with vaulted ceiling, bookcases, ceiling fans, recessed lights, gas fireplace with granite surround, and French doors to the deck. The formal dining room is detailed with a double tray ceiling, recessed lights, plantation shutters, glass display shelv...



1010 Ocean Blvd 103, MLS 16003291, Isle of Palms condo for sale

Thu, Mar 31st 2016 5:39 pm by Stephanie WilsonHartzog 1010 Ocean Blvd 103
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1010 Ocean Boulevard
Isle Of Palms, SC

MLS# 16003291 - Residential

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to purchase a turnkey Ocean Front Rental Property in the Heart of Isle of Palms! This well maintained condo is a true delight and offers your own direct access to the pool and the boardwalk to the beach. The living space features hardwood floors, an open floor plan and beautiful ocean views. The kitchen is appointed with maple cabinets, granite counters, a double embedded sink, and an eat at bar. The great room is bright and sunny with a wet bar, ceiling fan and porch access. The master bedroom offers ocean views and private access to the patio, a spacious bathroom with dual v...