Just Sold! Magnolia Place!
Pest Control Tips
I think we all agree that no one likes a pest. That is, after all, why they are called pests. Homeowners prefer to live in pest-free homes for their own comfort and well-being, and potential buyers certainly don’t want to see pests roaming free in a property they are considering for purchase.
Pests of all kinds can especially be a problem in warm and humid climates like Myrtle Beach. However, they can be kept away by enforcing a few time-proven methods.
Pest Control Tips
1. Promptly fix leaky faucets and other plumbing issues.
2. Ensure all food is tightly sealed and stored away. Take out the garbage frequently.
3. Keep the kitchen sink clean and never leave dirty dishes lying around the house.
4. Sweep and vacuum floors often and quickly wipe up spills with soap and water. Clean all floors at least once a week and the kitchen floor twice a week.
5. Don’t leave pet food sitting out overnight. Groom pets frequently and treat them with flea and tick prevention.
6. Store all fruit and other produce in the fridge.
7. Keep the outside of your home free of items that attract pests. For example, don’t stack wood against the house and don’t leave piles of leaves in the yard.
8. Trim plants to prevent pests from climbing them to gain access into your home.
9. Clean gutters often to remove leaves or any other debris that may harbor insects.
10. Caulk and seal crevices around cabinets and baseboards, as well as place screens in front of heating and cooling vents, to block potential entry points.
If you currently have a problem with a particular pest, Lowe’s offers tons of helpful tips to battle specific unwanted guests.
Myrtle Beach Neighborhoods & Communities: Palmetto Pointe
Palmetto Pointe is a community within the Myrtle Beach area that is centrally located along the Grand Strand. Its location lies directly between Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach, SC.
The location is a great benefit to its residents because they live within close proximity to nearly all surrounding areas–Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach, Murrells Inlet–you name it! Coastal Grand Mall, Market Common, and the Myrtle Beach International Airport are all located less than five miles away, and many shops and restaurants can also be found along Highway 544 (which is also less than five miles away).
Palmetto Pointe Boulevard is only a few miles long but contains numerous single-family home neighborhoods. Some of the more popular neighborhoods include Peninsula at Palmetto Pointe, Woodbury, Palmetto Glen, and Cascades. A few apartment and condominium communities are also included in the Palmetto Pointe community, such as Ivystone and Palmetto Pointe Apartments.
Most of the homes within Palmetto Pointe are one or two stories, range in size from 1300 to 2500 square feet, and consist of three to four bedrooms. Many also offer a two-car garage, fenced-in backyard, and updated features like stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and wood flooring. In addition, nearly every neighborhood offers its residents amenities that include a swimming pool and clubhouse, as well as other recreational facilities. Students who reside in the area attend Lakewood Elementary, Forestbrook Middle, or Socastee High School.
The pictures shown below were found on Zillow.com and consist of homes currently for sale or homes that have recently sold in the Palmetto Pointe community:
The Palmetto Pointe area is located behind a large, ongoing construction project on Highway 17 Bypass. However, don’t exclude this great community from your property search because of the occasional traffic congestion caused by this project. It truly is an awesome community that offers quiet neighborhoods in a fantastic location. The Highway 17 Interchange Project is expected to be complete by the summer of 2014. Once the project is finished, traffic and congestion surrounding the area will recede, and it should be easier to get around the area than it was prior to the project.
The following video should give you an overall understanding of the project and displays the projected outcome at completion:
Tips For Buying Energy Efficient Appliances
Energy efficient appliances help conserve our planet, but they can also save you tons of money! With many choices available, it can be difficult to know which brand or model is the most cost efficient. Here are a few tips so you’ll know what you should look for.
- Ask about special energy-efficient offers. Rebates, low-interest loans, or other incentive programs are often available to encourage buyers to purchase more energy efficient appliances.
- Read the Energy Guide label. The yellow and black label located on the appliance is required by the FTC on all new appliances (with the exception of ranges, microwaves, and clothes dryers). It will tell you the estimated annual energy consumption and will help you compare the efficiency of competing brands.
- Look for the Energy Star logo. Appliances with this logo are significantly more energy-efficient than the average model.
- Refrigerators with fewer accessories are usually more energy efficient. Ice makers and water dispensers use unnecessary energy. Auto-defrost causes lower overall efficiency because it uses heat to speed defrosting. The most efficient refrigerators are 16-20 cubic feet with freezers on the bottom rather than the top or sides.
- Self-cleaning ovens are more energy efficient because they are better insulated.
- Front load washers use much less water, hold larger loads, and conserve more energy in reduced water heating. Look for models that come with a sensor that automatically stops the dryer when the clothes are dry.
- Choose a dishwasher with an “energy-save” or “light wash” cycle which uses less water and runs for a shorter period of time. Also choose a model with an “air dry” option which uses a circulation fan. This uses less power than a “heat dry” option.
- If buying a new air conditioner, choose a model with an Energy Efficient Ratio (EER) of 10.0 or higher.
For more information on energy efficient appliances, energystar.gov offers a wealth of information!
Buying Your First Home: A Timeline
If you are a first time home buyer, buying a home can seem incredibly overwhelming. It’s no secret that purchasing a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. The following timeline can relieve some of the stress and anxiety you may be faced with during the home buying process.
Month 12: Review Your Credit
This is the time to really ask yourself if you are ready to be a homeowner. It’s important to review your credit to determine if you need to do any damage control. Do you need to build or enhance your credit? If so, check out this link about ways to boost your credit score before applying for a mortgage loan.
Month 11: Calculate How Much You Can Afford
Access your debts and pay down as much as you can. Ask yourself how you can increase your savings? Use a calculator to determine if you pre-qualify for a mortgage.
Month 10: Find Out What Kind of Home You Need
Consider the commute to work, possible transportation issues, the quality of nearby schools, and the amenities you want the most. Come up with a “Must Have List” (e.g. number of bedrooms and baths, multi-car garage, attic, basement, fireplace, pool, etc.)
Month 9: Research the Housing Market
Check out your favorite neighborhoods and the properties available that fit your needs. Talk to other homeowners in the area. View properties online to see if any are of particular interest to you. Tip: Pictures can be deceiving. Take a drive past the homes you are interested in before setting up an appointment with your real estate agent. You want to be sure the pictures live up to the property.
Month 8: Meet with Your Agent
Meet with your agent to discuss the current market conditions. Let them know the type of home you are looking to purchase. Mention any must-have amenities and which ones you are willing to sacrifice.
Month 7: Research Other Professionals
Research and meet with other professionals involved in the home buying process: inspectors, lawyers, and insurers. You want professionals you can trust to help you as you make this huge commitment.
Month 6: Organize Your Paperwork
Start putting together all of the paperwork needed to meet with your lender. You will need tax forms from the last two years (at least), asset statements, and income statements.
Month 5: Find a Mortgage Lender
Research local lenders, as well as outside lenders, and choose the one most suitable for you. Set up a meeting with them and complete the pre-approval process. A pre-approval will allow you to shop and negotiate with sellers seriously.
Month 4: Finalize the Contract
The contract phase will consist of an offer, a possible counter-offer, an agreement, and mortgage related paperwork. It will also consist of the final walkthrough and closing process.
Month 3: Logistics of Moving
The logistics of moving involve tying up all loose ends: terminating a lease, determining a move-in date, contacting utility providers, and more. You can read more about the logistics of moving by reading our post, Essential Address Checklist for New Home Buyers.
Month 2: The Move
Pack… Prepare your new home… Move!
Month 1: Contingency Plan
Come up with a Plan B. Don’t leave yourself without any options or financially strapped if something changes. What if you can’t move in right away as planned? Where will you store your belongings? Where will you sleep? Be organized and have a plan in place just in case you need it.
Myrtle Beach Area Events: October 3 – 6, 2013
There are several big events happening along the Grand Strand this weekend! Treat yourself by stepping out for some family-friendly FUN.
3rd Annual Grand Strand Mustang Stampede & Classic Ford Car Show
When: Saturday – October 5, 2013 | 9 AM until 4 PM
Where: Broadway at the Beach (1325 Celebrity Circle in Myrtle Beach, SC)
What: Over 300 cars on display; vendors, food, and shopping; profits benefit “Associated Charities of Myrtle Beach”
6th Annual Oktoberfest
When: Friday, October 4th – Sunday, October 6th
Friday | 4 PM until 9 PM
Saturday | 11 AM until 7 PM
Sunday | 12 PM until 5 PM
Where: Market Common (4017 Deville Street in Myrtle Beach, SC)
What: Oktoberfest and pumpkin beers available; live music; 20+ vendors, food, and kid activities
30th Annual Surfside Beach Family Festival
When: Saturday, October 5th | 10 AM until 4 PM
Where: Surfside Drive in Surfside Beach, SC
What: Festival featuring live music from The Tim Clark Band and The Josh Brannon Band; over 100 vendors; petting zoo; dunking booth; kids inflatables
Festive Fall Decor
Its official, folks… Fall has arrived.
Just the mention of the word makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. This time of year is wonderful in Myrtle Beach. The evenings are cooler, but most days are still warm enough to enjoy the beach!
I admit sometimes it feels like we only have two seasons in Myrtle Beach: Summer and Spring. But there’s an easy remedy for those of you who long for a more Autumn-like atmosphere–Create it yourself! Just decorate your home with those things the season brings to your mind.
Autumn makes me think of…
amber skies and long nights; football and harvest festivals; campfires and changing leaves; pumpkins and pie.Find inspiration by checking out these Fall decor ideas:
- Use contrasting colors like blue, green, and purple with orange, red, and yellow. Try placing burnt orange flowers in a clear blue vase.
- Hang a wreath made of natural elements. This wreath made of dried wheat and burlap ribbon is a great example.
found on Pinterest
- Add a “bouquet of leaves” to your dining room or kitchen table (i.e. place a few small branches of leaves inside a pretty vase.) Add a plaid tablecloth for an added boost of color.
- Decorate with seasonal produce like squash, pumpkins, chestnuts, acorns, and berries.
- Drape a cozy, Houndstooth throw over a chair or couch.
- Display green, orange, and yellow hand towels in the bathroom.
- Scoop small holes at the top of the pumpkin and place a candle inside the cavity to give the room a nice, warm glow.
found on Better Homes & Gardens
- Create a centerpiece with harvest corn. Trim the cobs down and secure them around a large, round candle using twine.
found on Pinterest
- Place candles wrapped with leaves on top of popcorn kernels.
found on Pinterest
- Place a large pot filled with apples and small, floating candles on the porch. This would be great for an Autumn get-together!
Do you have other Fall decor ideas?
Let us hear them!
PENDING!! COMMERCIAL LOT. Lot 1 Wild Iris Dr 1.7 Acres zoned commercial
PENDING!! COMMERCIAL LOT.
Lot 1 Wild Iris Dr
1.7 Acres zoned commercial
20 Great Travel Tips
Whether you’re a visitor with plans to visit Myrtle Beach or you’re a local with plans to take a trip elsewhere, it’s always good to know the best travel tips! Here’s a compilation of the best ones we could find.
#1. Pack a hat; it always comes in handy. It keeps the hair out of your face if it’s windy, it keeps you dry if it’s rainy, and it keeps the sun off your face if it’s sunny.
#2. Bring a travel first aid kit. You never know what types of mishaps or illnesses might pop up! Although we hope we won’t need one, it’s always good to have. Suggested items include pain reducing medications, antihistamines, nasal decongestants (also helps to reduce ear popping during flights), anti-diarrheal medication, antacids, antibacterial first aid ointment, safety pins, adhesive bandages, motion sickness medication, and cough drops.
#3. Don’t forget to pack chargers–for both your phone and camera.
#4. Ask museum staff for tips. They can tell you which exhibits you don’t want to miss and which ones you could probably skip.
#5. Take photos! Take photos! Take photos! Ask anyone. They always wish they took more photos.
#6. Before you leave, when you think of something you need to pack… pack it right then.
#7. If you’re traveling internationally and aren’t fluent in the native language, learn these words/phrases before the trip: Please, Thank you, I’m sorry, and Where is the bathroom?
#8. Call your banking and credit card companies before you leave, and let them your travel plans. This will prevent them from placing a hold on your account due to suspicious activity.
#9. Scan a copy of your passport and e-mail it to yourself, as well as a friend or family member. Another good idea is to make a copy to put inside the insert of your shoe. If you happen to lose your luggage or get robbed, you will at least have a copy of your passport.
#10. If you can’t afford to lose it (financially or emotionally), don’t pack it.
#11. Never put prescription medications, your toothbrush, deodorant, or PJs in your checked luggage. It’s always a good idea to carry these items in your carryon in the event your luggage happens to get lost.
#12. Check the weather and plan accordingly.
#13. Pack liquid items in plastic ziplock bags to prevent spills. Always place a few extra bags in your luggage to separate wet or messy items from the others, if needed.
#14. Take a picture of your luggage. A picture will help airport personnel find your bag more quickly.
#15. The best time to book a flight is on Tuesday afternoon. Many airlines post promotional or reduced airfare on Monday, and by Tuesday afternoon, other airlines have usually reduced their prices to match.
#16. Call the hotel’s local telephone number versus the 800 number listed on their website to book your room. The 800 number is usually managed by a clearinghouse for blocked off rooms at higher rates.
#17. Find great travel deals on Twitter by searching #traveldeals. You might also find a promo code by searching promotionalcodes.com.
#18. Bring a mini scented candle with you. You never know what smells you may run into at a hotel, and a candle creates a cozy and more personal environment. Just make sure to blow the candle out before you leave! Another helpful thing to take with you is a lightweight extension cord. Many hotel outlets aren’t located next to the bedside table, and an extension cord will allow you to keep your phone next to you while you charge it.
#19. Always bring antibacterial wipes with you on an airplane. The germs found on the armrests are similar to those of bathroom door knobs. Antibacterial wipes are a quick and easy way to kill those germs. Also–remember to drink lots of water during flights to flush out all those toxins and keep you hydrated.
#20. HAVE FUN!
How To… Spot An Overpriced Home
Homeowners have a tendency to overprice their homes because their opinion of its true value is clouded with personal memories. Buyers have a lot of choices. If you’re selling your home, it’s important to list it with a fair and competitive price. Just as equally important, buyers need to know how to spot overpriced homes.
How To Spot An Overpriced Home
1. The home has been on the market for a high number of days.
A home is probably overpriced if it has been sitting on the market for a long time. Competitively priced homes bring in multiple offers and sell quickly.
2. Location, location, location.
Location is EVERYTHING. A home is generally worth less if it’s located on a busy street, schools are poorly rated, and/or the neighborhood is filled with older residents. A home is generally worth more if it’s located on the water or has water views, schools are highly rated, and/or the neighborhood is associated with newer homes.
3. A home without updates has less value.
An outdated or unkempt property usually means money will be spent on updates and/or repairs. A home should be priced less if the house was built by a lower-end builder, fixtures are outdated, fence is rotted, paint is older or faded, cabinets are scratched, wallpaper is peeling or outdated, floor plan is awkward, lacks desirable traits (granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, energy efficient, great landscaping), or needs any known repairs.
4. Price is significantly higher than other homes in the same neighborhood.
Just because a home is a luxury estate located in a modest neighborhood doesn’t mean it’s worth more money. A home is only worth what buyers are willing to pay for it. Customized or unique amenities aren’t always clear indicators of the home’s value either. The previous owner may have spent a fortune installing a bowling alley, but that doesn’t mean every buyer wants or is willing to pay more to have one. The best indicator of a home’s value is to look at the listing price of other homes in the neighborhood or look at homes that have recently sold and for how much.
There’s an informative summary of a research project conducted on the value of housing characteristics on realtor.org. Listed below are some of the conclusions that were determined about property characteristics and the effect they have on the value of a home.
- each full bath adds approximately 24 percent to the selling price
- nine foot ceilings add approximately 6 percent to the selling price
- a sitting area in the master bedroom adds approximately 8 percent to the selling price
- each additional bedroom adds approximately 4 percent to the selling price
- the negative effects of age are most noticeable for homes 21-30 years old
- vinyl and aluminum exteriors sell for approximately 4 percent less than those with brick; stucco and wood exteriors sell for approximately 9 percent more
- houses with flat roofs sell for approximately 10 percent less than those with pitched roofs
- contemporary and Dutch styled homes sell for the highest prices
- internal characteristics that add the most value: family room, dining room, whirlpool, and security system
- a fireplace adds approximately 12 percent to the selling price
- a garage adds approximately 13 percent to the selling price
- in-ground pools add approximately 8 percent to the selling price but over-ground pools add no value
- the most valued kitchen features: built-in refrigerator, an island, and a double oven
- the most valued exterior features: sprinkler system, patio, paddock, and tennis courts
- situated within close proximity to a golf course adds approximately 8 percent to the selling price
- homes considered “fixer-uppers” sell for approximately 24 percent less than others
Still unsure if a home is overpriced?
Consult your real estate agent. He/she is familiar with the current market analysis and the value of homes in the area. He/she wants you to be happy with his/her service and should steer you away from overpriced homes.
Myrtle Beach Area Events: September 26 – 30
We always like to encourage both locals and visitors to get the most out of this great area by stepping out and enjoying it!
Here are a few things going on around the Grand Strand this weekend:
Brookgreen Gardens Brew at the Zoo – Saturday, September 28th
Location: Brookgreen Gardens @ 1931 Brookgreen Drive in Murrells Inlet, SC
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Event: The “Brew at the Zoo” offers tastings of more than 30 regional and national craft beers, entertainment by one of Murrells Inlet’s favorite bands, Bullfrog, a signature tasting glass, and an evening stroll through the Lowcountry Zoo. Food will also be available for purchase.
Tickets: $35 for Brookgreen members & $40 for the general public
Patriotic Parachute Jump – Saturday, September 28th
Location: Captain’s Quarters Resort @ 901 S. Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, SC
Time: 4:00 PM (weather permitting)
Event: In honor of 30 Special Operations Wounded Warriors and their families, the local SOWW charity has organized a professional parachute team (comprised of retired Special Forces operators) to parachute onto the beach in front of Captain’s Quarters Resort.
Not Your Mama’s Zumbathon – Saturday, September 28th
Location: North Strand Park @ 120 HWY 57 South in Little River, SC
Time: 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM
Event: A Zumbathon where Zumba instructors from across the Southeast come together to give three hours of their time to raise money in the fight against childhood cancer. All proceeds go to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Zumba classes, refreshments, raffles, and fun!
3rd Annual Walk-to-Cure Diabetes – Saturday, September 28th
Location: Myrtle Beach Pelicans Field @ 1251 21st Avenue North in Myrtle Beach, SC
Time: 10 AM: Registration; 11 AM: Walk begins
Event: Join in the walk around the baseball diamond to celebrate the efforts of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Free lunch will be served, and inflatables will be available for the kids!
4th Annual Farm to Table Event – Sunday, September 29th
Location: Thompson Farm & Nursery @ 1625 Bucksville Drive in Conway, SC
Time: 5 PM
Event: Enjoy bluegrass music and experience a six-course meal with wine and spirits. Visit coastaluncorked.com for more info.
22nd Annual St. Johns Greek Festival – Thursday, September 26th – Sunday, September 29th
Location: St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church @ 3301 33rd Avenue Extension North in Myrtle Beach, SC
Event: Enjoy the finest Greek pastries, cookies, and baked goods or sip on the finest Greek wines!
If you are in the Market for buying or selling a home call Dargan Real Estate To…
If you are in the Market for buying or selling a home call Dargan Real Estate Today! 843-712-2585!!
JUST SOLD! WATERWAY LOT IN WATERWAY PALMS PLANTATION!
JUST SOLD! WATERWAY LOT IN WATERWAY PALMS PLANTATION!
Local: Historical Buildings in Horry & Georgetown Counties
The state of South Carolina is rich with history and tradition.
Our state’s history dates all the way back to 1663–the year our colony was founded–and a number of historical buildings located within Horry and Georgetown counties have been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
It’s interesting to look back at historic architecture and recognize how much has changed over the years. We appreciate beauty in all of the buildings located around us–both new and old–and we thought we’d share a few of them with you.
c. 1928 – Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Station
Located on US HWY 701 in Conway, SC
c. 1903-1904 – Arthur Burroughs House
Located on Lakeside Drive in Conway, SC
c. 1946 (demolished in 2012) – Chesterfield Inn
Previously located on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, SC
Galivants Ferry Historic District
c. 1920-1935 – Myrtle Heights/Oak Park Historic District
Located on Ocean Boulevard between 32nd Ave & 46th Ave in Myrtle Beach, SC
c. 1931-1933 – Atalaya
Located off US HWY 17 in Murrells Inlet, SC
c. 1862 – Battery White – large earthwork battery
Pictured: 1929 United Daughters of the Confederacy monument
Located on S.C. Sec. Rd. 18 in Georgetown County
c. 1919 – Black River Plantation House
Located off S.C. Sec. Rd. 4 in Georgetown County
Located on Front Street in Georgetown, SC
c. 1750 – Prince George Winyah Episcopal Church
Located on Broad & Highmarket Streets in Georgetown, SC
c. 1749 – Samuel Smith House
Located on Orange Street in Georgetown, SC
Note: Most National Register properties are privately owned and not open to the public. Please respect the owner’s privacy. All pictures were obtained from www.nationalregister.sc.gov and the links provided will direct you to the page they were found.