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

Summerville SC Video!

Get a glimpse of beautiful Summerville, SC with this video!  Close to historic Charleston, two military bases, the new Boeing plant site and area beaches.  Summerville has a small town feel and lots of southern charm with all the modern conveniences!  This video doesn't even begin to cover all that Summerville has to offer!

For more information visit my site at http://www.summervillerealestateonline.com/  or contact me directly at mpettis@century21properties.com or (843) 860-3901

Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis
Realtor, ePRO

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

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

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