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

White Gables Subdivision - Summerville SC Real Estate

Featured Neighborhood - White Gables, Summerville, SC:

The White Gables Subdivision is located off of Central Avenue in Summerville.  It's a very easy, short drive into downtown Summerville where there's plenty of shopping including big box stores like Walmart, Target, Kohl's as well as plenty of locally owned shops with unique items in historic downtown.  There's also a huge variety of dining options as well.

White Gables was developed by Saussy Burbank home builders beginning around 2001, with some new construction going on even as of this writing, but most of the development is complete.

What many people love about White Gables is the many amenities...there's a architecturally pleasing clubhouse that's available for community use, a community pool, a couple of play areas, tennis courts, walking paths and a lot of open common areas some of which have ponds.  Along with the victorian and Charleston inspired style of homes, it makes White Gables a very aesthetically pleasing neighborhood.

A unique feature of White Gables is that detached garages are located to the back of each property and are accessed through alleyways. (There's a shot of an alley in the video) The idea was to leave the front of the property looking clean and neat with no driveways...just sidewalks to meander while your neighbors wave to you from the front porch.  But a complaint I sometimes hear is that the driveways are small.  Depending on the lot and your vehicle, it can become a bit of a challenge.

The yards are also small.  For many folks, the amenities offset this.  (I forgot to mention that there's a large open field which is great for playing a game of soccer or baseball or just letting the kids run around.) I've seen many yards landscaped in a lovely manner giving the feeling of a "courtyard" where you can sit and relax.  If you're looking for a large, private space to call your own this may not be the neighborhood for you.  On the other hand, I know many people, with their busy lives, don't want a big yard to care for and these yards certainly fit the bill.

The homes themselves are done in a charming style, some with big front porches, some with double porches and some with side porches or "piazzas".  Many floor plans are open which is what today's buyers are looking for.

As of this writing, homes in White Gables really run the gamut in terms of price...smaller homes start in the $120's with larger homes going all the way up to $300K.  Just remember, market conditions change frequently so it's best to consult an agent to see what types of homes are available in your price point.  There are some single story homes, but most are two story and not many offer master bedroom down.

Watch the video to get a feeling for the neighborhood and for additional information.  You can search White Gables homes for sale as well as other homes in the Summerville and Charleston areas on my website at http://www.mariapettis.com/.

And as always, feel free to contact me directly with questions or for further assistance.

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

104 Sparkleberry Ln, Summerhaven Real Estate

I recently listed this wonderful house in Ladson, SC which is near Summerville and Charleston. 

Actually the location is great!  It's a short hop to I-26 and a quick commute to Charleston Air Force Base, the Naval Weapons Station and the new Boeing site.

Shopping?  Take your pick!  Not 15 minutes to Northwoods Mall or loads of great shopping in Summerville.  Tanger Outlet Center is maybe a 20 minute drive at most.  And there is a grocery store, Walmart and other shops well within 10 minutes or less for your convenience.

The subdivision is called Summerhaven which was developed by Ryland Builders.  This is a great neighborhood with a community pool/club house, play park and walking trails.  And the best part is that these amenities are all around the corner from this home within walking distance!  Perfect for folks who like to be active in their communites or for families who like to get outside to play.

But lets talk about this terrific house itself!  Enter into a two-story foyer with shining hardwood floors.  How's that for a warm welcome home?!  To the right is a room which the current owners are using as a more formal living area, but it could be used as a formal dining room or office.  One of the best assets of a home is having flex space since everyone's lifestyle is a little bit different.  This way, you can decide the best use of this room for yourself based on your needs.

As you continue in, you enter the heart of the home...the bright family room which opens to a large kitchen.  There are plenty of corian counters and tons of storage in the big 42" oak cabinets.  There's also a large pantry.  But the thing sure to grab your attention is the large island which can comfortably seat 3 or 4 people AND has electricity! So it's great for both extra prep space or more casual eating.

Off the kitchen are sliders which go out to a large, fully fenced yard.  There's an oversized patio which gives you plenty of space for your grill and patio furniture...perfect for get togethers or just relaxing.

As you head upstairs you'll enter onto a very large, open landing.  Here you'll find a big linen closet adjacent to the bedroom area.

You'll see in the video that two of the bedrooms are clearly decorated currently as children's rooms.  The sellers are willing to paint both rooms a neutral color prior to closing at buyer's request.  The room currently decorated as a girl's room has it's own access to the hall bathroom (which has dual vanities I might add) and it's own walk-in closet.


Make a grand entrance through the double doors into the master bedroom!  A nice-sized room with it's own ensuite bathroom, it's a perfect get away space.  The master bath has dual vanities at a raised height which is a great feature no matter how tall you are.  You'll also find a large walk-in closet, another linen closet (can you ever have enough closets?) and a deep tub to soak in.
 
But one of the best features of this house, in addition to the master bedroom and kitchen, I've saved for last.  Talk about a great flex space!  The FROG (finished room over garage) is large and has it's own walk-in closet as well so it can serve as a fourth bedroom.  It's a bit separated from the other bedrooms so it would also make a terrific media room, play room or office.  Again, the choice is yours!
 
If you'd like more information on this fantastic home, visit 104SparkleberryLane.MariaPettisHomes.com or you can contact me directly.  Feel free to also visit my website at http://www.mariapettis.com/ to search other homes on the MLS, but I hope you'll add this one to your "must see" list.
 
Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis
Realtor, ePRO, SFR
Century 21 Properties Plus
(843) 860-3901
Maria@MariaPettis.com
 
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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

Dos and Don'ts When Selling Your Home During the Holidays

It's the most wonderful time of the year!  The holidays are fast approaching and thoughts turn to holiday decorating, baking and gift getting.  It's an extremely busy time for most of us.  It tends to be a less busy time in the real estate world, but there are still always those out looking to buy or sell a home.

With that in mind, I just wanted to pass along a few pointers for those folks with their homes listed for sale  over the holiday season.  If you are still living in your home, then you know it's not easy keeping the place clean and "show" ready on a steady basis.  When getting ready for the holidays, it may make things easier to do some of the following:

Dos:
1.  Do scale back when decorating for the holidays....way back!  People still need to see the space and not your stuff.  A christmas tree is fine, but don't let it overwhelm the room.  That may mean having a smaller tree or putting it in a different space than you have in years past.   Keep other decorations simple and on the "generic" side.  Too many personalized items, photos or cards will keep buyers from picturing themselves living there.  Same for outside the home.  A few simple lights and a wreath or garland will look welcoming and "homey", but try to steer clear of all the giant blow up Santa's, Snowmen or a huge Menorah!

2.  Do stay organized.  Keep a calendar and arrange times for you to do your card writing, baking, gift wrapping, etc so you are doing one thing at a time.  It makes it easier to clean up should you get a call for a showing and helps keep the clutter to a minimum.

3.  Do secure your gifts and other valuables.  You should always keep your valuables and medications out of site for showings, but don't forget about both wrapped and unwrapped gifts too. 

4.  Do make your visitors feel welcome!  While you might not get as many showings this time of year, make the ones you do get count!  Put out a plate of fresh baked goodies, use cinnamon or other potpourri scents, put on soft music and just make things feel inviting!

Don'ts:
1.  Don't neglect the outside of your home.  In addition to scaling back on the decorations, keep the yard raked up, walk ways clear, etc.  Clean out the gutters and do paint touch ups where needed.

2.  Don't leave candles burning.  Use the new flameless candles to get the same effect or find other alternatives.

3.  Don't allow your agent to take photos with holiday decorations.  Again, the goal is for people to see the space and not how you decorated!  Plus, if the pictures are just left on the listing or internet posting after the holiday, they just look silly.  Insist on new pictures without the holiday decor immediately following the finish of the season if you do happen to have photos that show any seasonal decorations.

4.  Don't over emphasize religious beliefs.  It's best to keep your decor more neutral.  For example, you may celebrate Christmas or Chanukah, but others may not.  Use decorations that celebrate the more general holiday season.  Remember you are trying to sell your home and you want the home to appeal to EVERYONE.

5. Don't Stress!  Easier said than done, right?  But really...it doesn't have to be complicated and actually, scaling back might help you stay more organized, on task and alleviate some of the stress!

I often tell my clients that it's not convenient to sell your home because it just isn't!  But the holidays don't have to add to the inconvenience if you follow these basic guidelines.   Any folks that do come through your house will feel welcome and still able to see the best features of your home because you haven't covered them up with the all holiday trimmings.  And you are not missing out on potential buyers!

For more information or tips on selling during the holidays feel free to contact me directly at mpettis@century21properties.com or 843-860-3901.  And for information on the Summerville and Charleston, SC area feel free to visit http://www.summervillerealestateonline.com/

Best Wishes and Happy Holidays!
Maria Pettis
Realtor, e-PRO
Century 21 Properties Plus

Coastal Carolina Fair Comes to Town!

One of the things I love most about living in Summerville, SC is the proximity to Charleston and the beaches.  There is always something going on somewhere.  Besides all the great restaurants, shopping and art galleries, there are all kinds of family and cultural events, festivals and fairs!

Speaking of fairs, one of the biggest is coming to Ladson beginning October 29th and lasting through November 7th.  After 53 years of doing this, you know they have it down pat, making it one of the best fairs around.

Of course there's the midway, with tons of rides and games.  But the fair has so much more to offer...

For instance, every night there is some sort of entertainment with names like comedian, James Gregory and country music group, Lady Antebellum among others. 

You could also check out the different equestrian events.  The list includes, bull riding, roping, jumping and barrel racing. 

Or you could enter one of the many competitions like the art shows, baking contests or the Star Search.  (Check the website for a complete list of competitions and information on how to enter.) My family and I like just wandering through the different exhibits, looking at peoples handiwork.  We also check out the many vendors...so many interesting items...it's a great way to start your Christmas shopping or find a unique gift for someone.

For my kids, being five year olds, one of their favorite things besides the rides is the petting zoo.  In the past there haven't just been the usual pony rides, but how about riding an elephant as well!

I have to admit though my favorite part has to be the food...so many choices!  Gyros, funnel cakes, burgers, candy apples...so much more to satisfy your taste buds.

The Coastal Carolina Fair is something we look forward to every year.  There's something for the whole family no matter what your age.  If you've been before, you know exactly what I'm talking about!  If not, you have to go check it out! 

Buy your tickets in advance to get a discount!  Visit http://www.coastalcarolinafair.org/ for schedules, ticket prices and info.

Maybe we'll see you there!

Maria Pettis
Realtor, e-PRO
http://www.summervillerealestateonline.com/
mpettis@century21properties.com
843-860-3901

Don't Let The Holiday Cost You Your Tax Credit!

As an agent working the Summerville Real Estate scene, I can tell you that I have worked with a lot of folks interested in that First Time Buyer Tax Credit. Even as of this writing (on October 11, 2009), I am being contacted by people interested in starting the search for their first home and wanting to close in time to qualify for the credit.

In order to receive the credit, a first time buyer needs to CLOSE on their home by November 30th! Time is short, but it can still be done if you move fast, are motivated and have an agent who is on the ball.

Here in South Carolina, it typically takes 30-45 days to close from date of contract. This is mostly to allow time to get your financing in order, but also to get your home inspections done. (If you're doing a cash deal, you can typically close much faster.) And closings are done by an attorney.

I just wanted to take a moment to remind people that November 30th falls on a Monday. And the Thursday prior is Thanksgiving! If you really want that credit, schedule your closing PRIOR to Thanksgiving which is November 26th.

Closing attorneys may find themselves busier than usual in November simply because of people trying to beat the tax credit deadline. Their offices may also be more lightly staffed much of Thanksgiving week. And of course, don't expect anything to happen the day of the holiday itself! Banks will be busy too and you need to know that the funds can be transferred on time to close the deal.

Sometimes things can come up at the last minute as well, pushing your closing back a day or more. Hopefully, this won't happen, but best not to wait til the last "hour" so try to schedule your closing as far in advance of the November 30th deadline as you can.

Better to be giving thanks for your new home and some extra cash then to be disappointed! Check with your agent, lender and lawyer to make sure you're on track to close in time!

Maria Pettis
REALTOR, e-PRO
mpettis@century21properties.com
843-860-3901
www.SummervilleRealEstateOnline.com

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.

102 Garden Ln - Summerville SC Real Estate

This cozy 3 bd/2 bath home was just recently listed for $99,000. While it could use a little bit of TLC, it has some great features that make it stand out from other homes in this price point.

The home was completely renovated about 10 years ago. Those updates included some lovely custom kitchen cabinets which are still in fabulous condition. The eat-in kitchen has french doors which lead to a really large, fenced-in yard. No "postage stamp" sized lot here! Plus there is a large shed out back that is only about a year old.

One of the best features in this home is the den or bonus room. It has fabulous floor to ceiling built-ins around a window seat and crown molding throughout the room. The room is a really nice size and there is a storage area off this room as well.

The master bedroom has a large closet and it's own bath. The other two bedrooms each have a large window for plenty of natural light.

This home is within the sought after Dorchester 2 School District. Summerville High School is within walking distance and other schools are very close by. There is a grocery store and shopping center up the street. Downtown Summerville with more shopping and access to I26 are less than 15 minutes away.

This is a possible short sale, but we are working with a professional short sale negotiator to help expedite the process. For questions or to schedule a showing please feel free to contact me!
Maria Pettis, Realtor
mpettis@century21properties.com
(843) 860-3901

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

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

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