Thursday, February 24, 2011

The Ponds in Summerville SC


There are a multitude of different types of neighborhoods in Summerville, SC.  But one development that has set itself apart is The Ponds.  Surrounded by natural beauty that only the Lowcountry can provide, it offers many amenities that other neighborhoods cannot while still offering moderately priced homes for sale.

Originally a rice plantation and farm dating back from the 1600's, the developers of The Ponds have preserved much of the character and beauty of the area.  For instance, the historic farm house was renovated and is now the amenities center for the neighborhood.  There is a non-profit conservancy which is dedicated to protecting the 1000 plus acres of woods and natural area surrounding the neighborhood.  Keep in mind that to this end, covenants and restrictions require a transfer fee on the sale of property within The Ponds in order to fund this organization.  The community enhancement fee, as it's called, is 1/8 of 1 percent of the gross sales price.

An 11 acre field, miles of walking trails as well as an ampitheatre at the foot of the 20 acre lake are just a few of the incredible amenities that this neighborhood has to offer.  Additionally, there is a community pool and pavilion as well as a relatively new YMCA near the entrance to the neighborhood.



Currently there are five different home builders within The Ponds offering a variety of price points.  Harbor Homes has plans that start in the 190's with prices for other homes and builders going well into the 300's.  Lots for custom built homes are also available.  All home plans are in keeping with the southern charm that Summerville and the Lowcountry are known for. 

Home sites are quite small with "row" style homes sitting on .07 or .08 of an acre.  Larger homes are typically on larger lots around .25 of an acre with a few custom home sites being larger.  On the one hand, yard maintenance is at a minimum for the home owner with smaller lots allowing time to simply enjoy the available amenities.  On the other hand, you have to really embrace the idea of community to live in a neighborhood like this.

Located within the sought after Dorchester 2 School District, The Ponds is just minutes from Historic Downtown Summerville with it's charming shops and restaurants.  Further up Main Street are all the big box stores and restaurant chains that most of us are familiar with.  Downtown Charleston and area beaches are an easy commute.



You can visit this site http://www.discovertheponds.com/ThePonds/ to get additional information on The Ponds.  Or feel free to visit my site to search the MLS for available properties within The Ponds or anywhere in the Summerville/Charleston area.  http://www.mariapettis.com/.

I am also available to answer questions or show property.  So please feel free to contact me directly if you wish.

Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis
Realtor, ePRO, SFR
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc
(843) 860-3901
maria@mariapettis.com

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Timing is Everything

Making a long distance move is a daunting event.  I work with many buyers who come from out of state.  They relocate to Summerville and Charleston for work, military transfers, to retire and some come just for the weather!

But no matter the reason, planning and timing your move can be difficult especially if you own a home in your current town.  When looking to relocate and buy a home in your new area, there are several things to consider.

First off, do you have work in your new home town?  Without it, you probably won't qualify for a mortgage.  Most lenders want to see at least 30 days of pay stubs from your new employer before approving a loan.  This can mean having to find some kind of temporary housing before closing on your new place. 

Some people like to find temporary housing anyway in order to learn the lay of the land in the new location.  It gives you the opportunity to explore different areas and neighborhoods first hand because there's only so much you can glean long distance from a computer and pictures.  If you haven't already done so, this is the time to start consulting with a realtor about the local market. 

Another consideration is... have you sold your old home yet?  In this market, most sellers will not accept an offer that's contingent upon you selling your home.  So it may be best to sell your current place first and then look for a new home knowing you are unencumbered by the old property.  At a minimum, you should wait until you have a solid contract on your current home before heading off to search for the new one.

Have kids?  The biggest concern most parents have is about schools.  Should you wait until the end of the school year before making the move?  Clearly moving over the summer may be easiest for some families, but I have also heard the opinion that moving during the school year can actually be a good thing.  The reason?  Your children will start in their new school almost immediately, giving them the opportunity to meet other kids right off the bat.  With clubs and other activities to get involved with, it may be the perfect way for them to make new friends quickly and acclimate to their new surroundings.  Parents know best, so a talk with your children, their current teachers and pediatrician may help you decide which is the best way to go for your child.

In my opinion, the bottom line is this...moving is never an easy or convenient process.  In order to get into the home of your dreams or make the move you've been dreaming of...you may need to be inconvenienced by finding a rental first or some other kind of temporary housing.  Or you may need to put your things in storage for a month or two.  Just keep in mind, those are all temporary things.  Keep your long term goals and dreams in mind and you'll see that it's worth the inconvenience in the end.

Lots of factors will dictate how things play out for each individual situation, but with the help of your lender, realtor and other professionals, you can figure out what will work best for you.

If I can be of assistance to you with your relocation to the Charleston or Summerville, SC area please don't hesitate to call or email.

Maria Pettis
Realtor, ePRO, SFR
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc.
http://www.mariapettis.com/
(843) 860-3901