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

Summerville SC Real Estate Market is Heating Up Thanks To Tax Credit!

Time is running out on the expanded buyer tax credit! Be sure you are under contract by April 30th and can close by June 30th!

If you are thinking about purchasing a home that's a short sale, be very careful in making your decision and be prepared for the possibility of missing out on the tax credit. The "short" refers to the financial aspect of the sale, not the length of time it takes. These transactions can take months and you are often in the dark much of that time. Things can change unexpectedly and suddenly when dealing with short sales. There are no guarantees with a short sale.

Talk to your Realtor for more information or feel free to contact me directly!

Maria Pettis
Realtor, ePRO, SFR
Century 21 Properties Plus
(843) 860-3901
www.SummervilleRealEstateOnline.com

So You Want to Buy A Home? But Are You Really Ready to Get Started?

The newly expanded and extended tax credit is opening the door for a lot of folks looking to purchase a home.  Interest rates are still low, there is a ton of inventory...it's a buyer's market!

 

You've browsed listings online, set aside some money for a down payment and closing costs, you're ready to roll! Right? 

Well, almost...

 

Do you know the very first step you should take before going out with your real estate agent to look at homes?  If you said talk to a lender, you hit the nail on the head. Unless you are one of the lucky few with cash to make your home purchase, speaking with a lender is the first real step toward getting that key to your new front door.

 

Many times I'm contacted by folks who are very excited to start looking for a home.  They tell me their wish list, all the things they want or need, the desired location, they talk about homes they've seen online, etc.  And I will ask a lot of questions as well so I can be sure to find the perfect place.

That's the fun part.  But then we have to face the reality of what these folks can afford.  So I will begin to ask questions that every home buyer should know the answer to...

1.  Have you been pre-qualified or pre-approved?

Many agents won't even put you in their car to go look at homes until you can show them at least a pre-qual letter from your lender.  This is just a general letter saying that based upon the information you've provided the lender, they feel you qualify for a mortgage amount of X dollars.  A pre-approval letter is even better and one that you will want to include with any offers you make.  This means you've actually provided certain documentation to the lender, they've checked your credit and basically they've approved you for your loan although it may be contingent upon providing other documentation or meeting additional criteria.

2.  What type of loan are you applying for and how much do you have for a downpayment?

This is important for you and your agent to know as well.  Different programs have different down payment requirements.  For example, FHA currently requires buyers to put down 3.5% of the purchase price.  VA loans can be up to 100% financing, however, you still have the option of putting money down.  A conventional loan may require as much as 20% down.

Say you are approved for a $200,000 loan and you have another $20,000 for a down payment.  That's a total budget of $220,000.  So you need to decide if you want to look at homes all the way up to your max of $220,000 or stick to a lower price range.  Which leads me to the next question...

3.  Did you get a breakdown of your monthly mortgage expenses at different price points?

Even though your lender may say you qualify for a $200,000 loan...what does that equate to in monthly payments and are you comfortable with that?  Have them include estimated insurance and taxes in addition to the mortgage amount because those expenses will effect your monthly payment as well. 

4.  Have you shopped around?

I always recommend talking with a few lenders.  Start with your own bank or credit union.  Your agent, family and friends may have people they can recommend as well.  Different places can offer somewhat different programs and certainly different rates.  Your interest rate can make a huge difference on the monthly payment...more so than a reduction of the price of the home in some cases.

Bottom line is...you really need to know if you qualify for a loan and for how much.  You want to be sure you are looking in the right price point so you are not wasting your time or your agent's time.  You may need to adjust your expectations up or down regarding the quality, location or condition of homes based on this information and your local market conditions.

I've come across folks whose credit may not be the greatest and so they are hesitant, perhaps even a bit embarrassed, to talk to someone about their loan options.  Any reputable lender will keep the information confidential.  And if you don't qualify for a loan now, they can often times make suggestions on how you can improve your credit score.  This can often be done over the phone and it won't cost you a thing.

The thing is, you won't know for sure unless you do it!  And it really is the essential first step to home ownership.

For more information or if you have questions, contact your lender or feel free to contact me.  While I am not a mortgage expert, I will do my best to answer your general questions or to point you toward resources where you can get the appropriate information.

Maria Pettis

Realtor, e-PRO

(843) 860-3901

maria@mariapettishomes.com

http://www.summervillerealestateonline.com/

Hope for Homes in Summerville and Charleston, SC!

There is HOPE FOR HOMES in Summerville and Charleston, SC!  If you are a home owner in the area and are falling behind on your mortgage payments or feel unable to keep up, then you will want to attend this special event THIS SATURDAY, October 24th at the North Charleston Convention Center.

Maybe you've lost your job or had some other reduction in income.  Or perhaps you've been hit with unexpected medical bills making it more difficult to keep up with your mortgage payments.  Whatever the reason, financial issues always cause a great deal of stress especially if the possibility of losing your home exists.

Come to this FREE event on Saturday and meet with certified HUD specialists who can offer budget and credit counseling, explain foreclosure prevention options and explain legal issues related to foreclosure.  These specialists can review your situation and help guide you in the right direction so that you can get back on track again. 

Don't expect any quick fixes though.  You'll need to listen closely to what the specialists are telling you and follow up with what is sometimes hard work.  But it could be the first step toward saving your home and getting you financially healthy again.

Visit http://www.hopeforhomescharleston.com/ to get a list of things you should bring with you and to get more details about the event. 

To Be Or Not To Be? - Extension of the Tax Credit?

Summerville, SC real estate has been moving. At our office sales have been up significantly over the last several months and even the National Association of Realtors has reported that pending home sales are up for seven straight months now.

Many of the consumers that I have talked with are first time buyers who want to purchase before the November 30th deadline to qualify for the current $8000 tax credit. So it's no wonder that many of our government leaders including South Carolina Senator, Lindsey Graham, are pushing to not only extend the tax credit, but increase the monetary amount and open it to all buyers.

While I personally don't believe it's necessary to really raise the amount of the tax credit, I do think it would be important to open it up to all home buyers as long as the home was going to be their primary residence. It would make a huge difference to folks who have to move due to military or job transfers or have other life issues where they just need to sell and buy elsewhere. Or to those families who are looking to trade up for more space or to provide a better quality of life for their families.

It's no secret that the current tax credit has made a difference in getting first time buyers off the fence and into new homes of their own. Further proof of that is the fact that what's been selling around here in Summerville is mainly lower end affordable homes perfect for first timer's. So how is it that I read an article recently which suggested that the tax credit was a waste and should just be left to expire and die?

The article argued that no one buys a house just to get back an $8000 tax credit. I would actually agree with that, but that thinking is really missing the mark. People still buy houses to have a home, to put down roots, and if they plan on staying a while, as an investment. With the economy being so shaky, it's caused many to hold off on their home purchase. What the tax credit has done is give an extra INCENTIVE to move forward with the home purchase. And there is no doubt in my mind after seeing statistics, speaking with other agents as well as many, many consumers that the lure of that extra cash is a powerful thing.

There are no easy answers for our current economic situation and I don't envy the folks in government trying to fix this mess. The deficit is huge and growing still, but stabilizing the housing industry is vital to helping stabilize our economy. So for once, let's let the government put something back in the pockets of the American People as opposed to big businesses.

107 Essex Drive Update - Summerville SC Real Estate

Hi Everyone,

I've blogged about this great home before. I just wanted to let everyone know that we just finished installing all new carpet in the four bedrooms upstairs. It looks fabulous!

The price was also reduced to $194,777 making it one of the best prices per square foot in the Irongate neighborhood and a really great deal. We have a very motivated seller who is willing to consider all offers.

There is a transferrable termite bond and a 1 year home warranty that goes with this home. And remember that the plumbing and water heater are all only a few years old.

This home has the traditional living/dining rooms, but has a family room open to the kitchen for that more "open" style of living that people love. Four true bedrooms and a large master allow for plenty of space.

The neighborhood is wonderful with larger lots, sidewalks and a community pool, plus mature trees and plantings.

The home needs some cosmetic updates, but that will just allow the new owner to put their own special touch on the place while increasing the value of the home.

Call me to schedule a showing today!

Maria Pettis, Realtor
Century 21 Properties Plus
mpettis@century21properties.com
(843) 860-3901

Summerville Home for Sale, Open House Today!

Hi Everyone,

If you missed last week's open house at 107 Essex Drive, here's your chance to swing by. Held open today, Saturday, September 29 from 11-4.

I've blogged about this home before, but just to let you know it's been freshly painted throughout and the price has been reduced to $194,777. It's one of the best priced homes in Irongate.

This is not another cookie cutter house. It has a fabulous floorplan, plenty of space and a great big fenced in yard. Not something you can find in newer neighborhoods. While it does need some updating, it provides and opportunity to move right in to a freshly painted home which is a blank slate to put your own stamp on.

Even if you can't make the open house today, please feel free to contact me for your own personal showing. The seller is motivated and we are ready for offers!

For more info check out the video on one of the previous posts here or contact me directly!

Maria Pettis
REALTOR, e-PRO
(843) 860-3901
mpettis@century21properties.com

Summerville, SC Rental/Real Estate Scam...Beware!

If you are thinking of renting a property in the Summerville/Charleston area, or really anywhere, please be aware of a scam that is being purpertrated on Craigs List.

The scam artist takes information about homes that are listed for sale and posts it on Craigs List as being for rent. They provide their own contact information and when someone calls about the "rental", the scammer gives an excuse of why the owner is out of town and all dealings must be handled remotely. They ask the prospective renter to fill out an application and send it along with first and last months rent. Once they receive the money, the scammer disappears and leaves the victim to find out that the property was never for rent in the first place and the scammer had no actual connection to the property.

If you are looking to rent be sure you are dealing with a reputable real estate firm, property management company or agent. This is easy enough to check with a few phone calls and/or internet search. If the person posting the property represents themselves to be the owner or someone assisting the owner, then you must proceed with caution.

Always be sure to visit and tour the home in person before sending any money. Asking for pictures is not enough because the scammer steals pictures and information off of whatever listing forum they found the property.

If you really must sign a lease before you make your move and cannot view properties in person (for example if you are moving to another state), contact a reputable real estate firm or property management company to assist you. It may eliminate some homes that are being offered for rent privately, but at least you can be sure that you will not be scammed out of your security deposit.

I personally know two fellow agents whose listings were the subject of this scam so this is no joke. Right now, it seems that these criminals are targeting Craigs List, but be aware when inquiring about rentals through the newspaper or other sites where anyone can post an advertisement.

The following link provides additional information about this story as well as where to report any suspected criminal activity.

http://www.popdecay.com/2009/07/real-estate-scam-uses-craigslist-to-lure-victims/

Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis, Realtor/e-PRO
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc.

153 Black River Dr - Lakes Of Summerville Real Estate - Summerville Home for Sale!

153 Black River Drive, Summerville, SC
Offered at $118,000.
2 Bedroom/2.5 Bath Townhome.



I have just listed this immaculate, move-in ready townhome in Lakes of Summerville. Just like new only better at this price! This is NOT a foreclosure or short sale so we can close quickly instead of waiting on lender approval for every little thing! AND still take advantage of the $8000 buyer tax credit!

This townhome is open and airy. Big windows let in lots of natural light. The kitchen is functional and open to the living area. It boasts a breakfast bar, 42" Oak cabinets, smooth top stove, dishwasher and double stainless sink w/disposal.

Just off the kitchen/dining area is a lovely sunroom. This was a builder upgrade and adds square footage and living space to this home. Also located in this area is a large storage closet. You can never have storage space!

A half bath with pedestal sink and a large coat closet round out the downstairs area.

As you get to the upper floor landing, you'll find the laundry area hidden behind bifold doors. Laundry upstairs where the bedrooms are located is a huge modern convenience! Next to that is an extra large linen closet.

The front bedroom is bright and has a walk-in closet, it's own full bath with an extra deep tub perfect for soaking in. The back bedroom also has a large closet and it's own full bath with the same type of extra deep soaking tub.

Lakes of Summerville is a lovely community of townhomes and single family homes. Part of the community is in Charleston County. This townhome falls within Dorchester County which means it is located within the much sought after Dorchester 2 School System. The community also has it's own clubhouse and pool.

Convenient to I-26, both military bases and shopping, Lakes of Summerville is a wonderful place to call home! In Summerville, SC you get all the small town feel with big city amenities...all your favorite big name stores, plus plenty of specialty shops unique to Summerville. Nearby you'll find Northwoods Mall and Tanger Outlet Center. Downtown Charleston and area beaches are about a 30 minute drive.

For more information on this beautiful, move-in ready townhome....visit:
153BlackRiverDr.SummervilleRealEstateOnline.com

or contact me:
Maria Pettis, Realtor
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc
(843) 860-3901
mpettis@century21properties.com

Are You Covered? Flood Insurance Basics.

Well, it's hurricane season once again! But last year it wasn't a hurricane that made headlines here. A bad rain storm dumped approximately 9 inches of rain on the Greater Charleston area. This storm caused serious flooding in different areas stranding cars and damaging homes. This is called "the Lowcountry" for a reason and we do expect to have flooding on occasion in some areas. Buyers often ask me if certain homes are in a "flood zone". But here's the thing, according to local news reports, many of the homes that were flooded in this storm were not in high risk flood zones which begs the question, did these homeowners bother to get flood insurance? Sadly, many did not.

Here's what you need to know about flood insurance...
According to www.floodsmart.gov, the National Flood Insurance website, about 25% of all flood claims come from low to moderate risk areas. Our recent storm would seem to back that up. So no matter where you live, can you really afford to not carry flood insurance? The standard homeowner's policy does not include flood insurance so a separate policy is necessary. You can choose a policy that covers just the building, contents only, or both the building and it's contents. It's not as expensive as you might think with rates preset by FEMA, and if you need it (God forbid), it surely will be worth every penny.

If you live in a low to moderate risk area, you have the option of purchasing flood insurance. Is it a good idea? I would recommend it and just ask those poor folks that I mentioned in the opening of this blog. If you don't purchase the insurance and get into a fix like these folks, you could apply for goverment assistance to get back on your feet, but it will most likely be in the form of a loan and do you really need that on top of your mortgage and other bills as you try to rebuild your life after such an event?

If you are in a high risk or "Special Flood Hazard" area, then federal law requires you to purchase flood insurance and you will not be able to close on your home without it. Here in the Charleston area we have homes that fall into both categories so be sure to ask your real estate agent about the home you are interested in purchasing and then CONFIRM it with your insurance agent prior to entering into a contract. It's also important to note that there is a 30 day waiting period before flood coverage takes effect.

You may also want to see what your insurance company can provide in the way of wind and hail. This coverage can be costly, but you can keep your premiums down by choosing a higher deductible. Putting some money aside to use for your deductible, should you need it, can provide you with greater peace of mind and be a much needed umbrella on that windy, rainy day. Shop around for the best rate and terms, but also be aware that there is a wind pool overseen by the South Carolina Underwriting Association for those that can't find coverage in the regular marketplace.

Finally, I want to briefly mention that you should also investigate earthquake coverage as we actually have a fault-line running through the area. Yes! Here in South Carolina, believe it or not.

The Summerville/Charleston, SC area is a truly beautiful place to call home. Nature has blessed us with beautiful beaches, waterways and a temperate climate. But Mother Nature has a way of reminding us periodically that she is also a force to be reckoned with, so it's best we are prepared. Knowing your insurance options and getting the appropriate coverage is the first step in protecting your home. Talk with an insurance agent for expert advice and to get more details about what coverage and options are best for you.

For more info and additional resources, check out:www.floodsmart.govwww.fema.govwww.dnr.sc.gov/water/flood/www.scwind.com/index.html

Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis,
Realtor, e-PRO
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc.
(843) 860-3901
MPettis@Century21Properties.com

107 Essex Drive - Irongate Real Estate - Summerville Home for Sale!

107 Essex Drive, Summerville SC
Lovely Traditional Home for Sale
Offered at $212,777
MLS 2911435

I have just listed this wonderful home in the Irongate Subdivision located in Summerville, SC. If you are looking for more than just a cookie cutter house in a cookie cutter neighborhood, this home may be for you!

This is a lovely traditional two-story with a large entry foyer and center hall. To either side of the entry you will find the two formal rooms... the formal dining room to the right and the formal living room to the left. This formal living room has french doors and could also be used as a study or office.

Down the hall to the back of the home, you find an amply sized eat-in kitchen which is open to the family room. This cozy space has a brick fireplace and plenty of windows for natural light.

You'll also find a good sized laundry room and half bath on the first floor.

Upstairs are four true bedrooms. The three secondary bedrooms are all a nice size and share a bath in the hall. The master bedroom is a nice size. Currently there are several large pieces of furniture in the room and it still doesn't feel small! There are dual walk-in closets for him and her. An en suite bathroom has a tub/shower combo and it's own linen closet.

At 2165 square feet, this home is not short on space!

There is also a two car garage and a fully fenced yard. The lot is almost a third of an acre...something else you won't typically find in those newer neighborhoods. Enjoy a little space and privacy and not be on top of your neighbors! There is also a community pool and play area.

Irongate is a community of homes built in the '80's and '90's. They range in price from the mid 100's up to the low to mid 200's.

Located right off of Old Trolley Rd, there is plenty of shopping nearby including Publix Supermarket and a brand new Ace Hardware store. It's just minutes from downtown Summerville where there are numerous other stores such as Lowe's, Home Depot, Target, Kohl's and Walmart just to name a few. Plus the historic district is right there with plenty of little shops and grand old homes and churches.

One thing that is so great about Summerville is it's location! A short 15 minute drive from this home will get you to the Air Force Base, Charleston International Airport, the Mall and Tanger Outlets. The Lowcountry's beautiful sandy beaches are located about 30 minutes away as is Downtown Charleston with it's many fine restaurants, shops and historic venues.

Location, space, community pool and so much more! Come check out this lovely home today!

Give me a call at 843-860-3901 or email at mpettis@century21properties.com to set up an appointment.

For more info and pics visit: 107essexdrive.summervillerealestateonline.com