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Myrtle Beach SC real estate

Myrtle Beach Communities: Plantation Point

September 9, 2013 by Dargan

plantation pointe

The neighborhood of Plantation Point is situated in the heart of Myrtle Beach at 38th Avenue North. Residents enjoy living in this conveniently located neighborhood because of its easy access to Highway 17 Bypass, as well as nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and shopping venues.

The homes within Plantation Point consist of a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes. Some properties have views of the waterway while others have views of Myrtlewood’s Golf Course. In addition, a few properties have private docks for easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Because the homes available offer a wide variety of styles and prices, there’s sure to be a home that appeals to everyone. View the properties available within Plantation Point HERE.

As always, contact us at Dargan Real Estate if you see anything you’re interested in viewing!

843-712-2585

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: neighborhoods

Buying A Home? There’s an App for That!

September 8, 2013 by Dargan

With today’s advanced technology, there’s an app for everything and purchasing real estate is no exception. The five apps listed below can offer helpful assistance during the home buying process.

Trulia – real estate search with interactive maps

Trulia Collage.jpg

Features

  • separate sections listing homes for sale and homes for rent
  • search limitations by lot size, year built, property type, price range, square footage
  • an open house tab allows you to view open houses on any given day
  • heatmap feature displays neighborhood crime incidents, rental prices, or homes prone to flooding
  • amenities tab displays restaurants and schools nearby
  • syncs with Yelp! and displays a map with nearby gas stations, grocery stores, shopping plazas, and more

Credit Karma – free credit scoring on the go

credit karma

Features

  • free credit monitoring
  • notification when important changes are made to your credit report
  • credit report card displays factors influencing your credit score
  • free membership
  • financial education and free tools allow users to take control of their credit score

Homesnap – creative home search powered by MLS data

Homesnap

Features

  • snap a photo of a house for sale and read MLS data about it
  • displays estimated value, last price home sold for, number of bedrooms and baths, local schools nearby, interior pictures + more
  • save favorites and share with friends
  • see what homes your friends have searched for or saved as a favorite

Zillow Mortgage – mortgage calculating tool

Zillow Collage.jpg

Features

  • calculate the maximum amount you can afford on a home
  • determine the monthly mortgage payment or if you should refinance
  • shop current mortgage rates
  • live mortgage rates and trends
  • side-by-side customized loan quotes
  • compare lender ratings and reviews

Houzz – interior home decorating and design ideas

Houzz

Features

  • over 1,500,000 photos of interior homes
  • browse by style (modern, traditional, contemporary, eclectic, mediterranean, farmhouse, industrial, rustic)
  • browse by room or location
  • save the ideas you like to your favorites for quick access

 

Do you use an app that you find particularly helpful that isn’t on our list?

Share it with us!

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: advice, apps, technology, tips

5 Reasons to Choose a New Home Over a Resale

September 2, 2013 by Dargan

1. Little or No Maintenance

It goes without saying that little maintenance (or none at all) is required when you purchase a new home versus a resale. That means you don’t have to worry about replacing the roof anytime soon or ripping down the outdated wallpaper. Buying a home is one of the most stressful events in one’s life. Think about how nice it would be to relax and enjoy your new home instead of working to make it the way you want it.

2. Warranties

In addition to less maintenance, new homes come with warranties that protect your wallet if anything goes wrong with the roofing or structure of the property. They offer new homebuyers a level of comfort and security that might not be possible with a resale property.

3. Modern & Efficient

New homes are built to code with efficiency in mind and stocked with equally efficient and modern appliances. These modern conveniences help reduce utility bills. In addition, newer homes can accommodate advanced technologies with more outlets and sophisticated security systems and lighting plans.

4. Customization

The ability to personalize your home is one of the biggest perks of buying a new home rather than a resale. You can customize everything from the flooring and countertops to the placement of the bathrooms. The options are endless.

5. Bargaining Power

The ability to bargain with a builder tends to be easier than bargaining with an individual homeowner. Individual sellers have an emotional attachment to the property that can blind them to the true value of the home. Also, builders are often financially stable and have the capacity to absorb a loss on a sale. Think about it: a small loss over a large number of lots hurts a lot less than the same loss on one.

Plain and simple: IT’S NEW.

I think we can all agree there’s nothing better than owning something that’s never been used. When you purchase a new home, you will be the first to sleep in the bedrooms, cook in the kitchen, and lounge in the den. There’s just something wonderful about it.

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: buying a home, lists, new properties

Grand Strand Events: September 2013

August 29, 2013 by Dargan

Check out the official events calendar for August 30th – September 7th, 2013!

Compliments of GrandStrandEvents.com

August 30th – September 1st

Beach, Boogie, & BBQ Festival – Grand Park at Market Common

BBQLogo

 

A BBQ competition featuring over 75 vendors with live music, wakeboard and fly board demonstrations, and a Kids’ Zone to keep the kids entertained.

Friday

@ 6:30 PM: “Anything Goes” cooking contest and tasting; sampling tickets are $1

Saturday

@ 8-11 AM: Official S.C. BBQ Championship & Kansas City BBQ Society Cook-off

@ 12 PM: BBQ Tasting; sampling tickets are $10 and children under 6 sample for free

@ 9:15 PM: Fireworks Show

Sunday

@12 PM: Wings Tasting + MORE BBQ!

September 1st

Town of Surfside Beach Endless Summer Celebration – Surfside Beach Pier

Enjoy music, food, and numerous vendors that are fun for the whole family.

September 7th

South Carolina’s Largest Garage Sale – Myrtle Beach Convention Center

Hours are from 7 AM until 2 PM. Admission is free but parking at the Convention Center is $3 per car.

East Coast Volkswagen NMB Triathlon – Main Street in North Myrtle Beach

Begins at 7 AM and consists of a 700-meter ocean swim, 13 mile leg, and 5K run.

Online registration closes at 7 AM on September 8th. $60 entry fee for individuals and $120 for relay teams. Added $10 fee for participants who are not USA Triathlon members.

 

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: myrtle beach events

Attributes Buyers Love (& Sellers Fail to Mention)

August 15, 2013 by Dargan

Trulia posted an article about a few things you should consider as you market your property, and we wanted to share a few of them with you.

Sellers sometimes fail to mention certain property features that could potentially sway a buyer to make an offer. These features aren’t deal breakers, but they are things that could have motivated other buyers to view your property had they been advertised.

It’s easy to describe a property with expensive upgrades and beautiful views or a jaw-dropping estate in the most reputable neighborhood in town. BUT–if you own a “normal” home and have lived there for many years, it’s easy to take its charm for granted. Those charming features you may have forgotten are the same ones that someone else might be actively searching for. You need to let them know you have them!

The five features listed below are just a few examples. Try to think of some others!

#1 – STORAGE SPACE

Cabinets & Storage

You might think your home doesn’t have nearly enough storage space but that could be because you’ve outgrown it. Try to put yourself in the shoes of a first-time homebuyer. They are probably comparing your storage space to the one-bedroom apartment they’ve lived in for the past three years. Your home might be their storage heaven!

#2 – NEARBY AMENITIES/ATTRACTIONS

Market Common

You might also think every potential buyer is searching for area-specific properties online and that it’s not necessary to mention nearby amenities or attractions. That’s not always the case. If a homebuyer is relocating from another city, they may not be familiar with the area at all. They might only be looking at homes in the area that fall between a certain price range. By mentioning that your property is within close proximity to an attractive shopping plaza or reputable school, your home could easily move to the top of their list.

#3 – EASY ACCESS/SENIOR FRIENDLY 

Inlaw Unit

Older homebuyers might seek to purchase a home they will live in for the rest of their lives. They might not look for properties with numerous disability features but are likely to look for ones with fewer stairs, lower levels, and low maintenance. It’s especially wise to mention these property features if you live in an area where they are scarce. Also–if you’re selling a home that can function as a multi-family home or features an “in-law” unit or second master suite, it would be smart to mention that as well. Children tend to move their parents in with them as they get older; these types of features are rare and should be advertised as such.

#4 – GREEN/ENERGY EFFICIENCIES

Green Home

All homebuyers should like to hear that a property has energy-efficient features even if they aren’t specifically looking for a “green” home. Energy-efficient almost always means budget friendly. If you have new insulation, a tankless or Energy Star®-rated water heater, or solar panels, make sure to mention that.

#5 – HYPOALLERGENIC & CHEMICAL-FREE MAINTENANCE

ECOLOGY AND FUTURE

A property with a hypoallergenic HVAC system or a property that has been maintained with only natural and chemical-free cleaning products over the past few years is worth marketing. Homebuyers who suffer from terrible allergies and/or sinus problems will likely move your property to the top of their list.

—

Those are just a few things to consider when you go over your property with your listing agent. Again, try to think outside of the box. If your property doesn’t have any of the features mentioned, that’s okay too. Try to think about those you do have that might only appeal to a specific group of people, and mention them to your agent so he/she can add them to your already attractive list of features that appeal to everyone.

 

 

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: marketing, selling your property

Market Value VS. Appraised Value

August 12, 2013 by Dargan

What is the difference between market value and appraised value?

If you are planning to sell your home in the near future, you might be curious about the difference between a market value and an appraised value.

An appraised value is the home value (or the estimated dollar amount your home is worth) in its current state at a given point in time, and its value is estimated by a certified appraiser. The appraised value is required by lenders as part of the loan application process. The fee to have your home appraised ranges between $200 to $300.

A market value is the price your home is estimated to sell for based on the current market. The analysis of the market or estimation of your home’s market value is comprised from sales of comparable properties and is usually performed by a real estate agent or broker.

Both values are accurate ways to determine the worth of your property.

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: faq

Myrtle Beach Subdivisions: Dunes Cove

August 6, 2013 by Dargan

We talked about one of Myrtle Beach’s most prestigious neighborhoods last week–The Grande Dunes. It seems only fitting to talk about its neighbor this week–Dunes Cove.

Dunes Cove Entrance
Dunes Cove is nestled between Highway 17 and the Atlantic Ocean on the northern end of Myrtle Beach. The community is an older one and bears a name synonymous with prestige and luxury. It’s also situated in an area that is convenient and highly sought after because the beach is easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or golf cart.

The properties located within Dunes Cove offer large wooded estates with lush greens, beautiful oak trees, and lake views. The selection of homes will satisfy the taste palettes of every prospective buyer because it provides a mix of traditional and modern architecture. In addition to a convenient location and attractive landscaping, the high level of security offered to the community is attractive and reassuring. Homeowners and guests enjoy  an organized “Community Watch” program, partnered with the City of Myrtle Beach, which features 24-hour surveillance at each of the five entrances.

The list of available homes within Dunes Cove range in price from $395,000 to $6.9 million. Browse the list of available homes HERE.

Please contact us at Dargan Real Estate (843-712-2585) if you find a home you are interested in viewing!

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach homes for sale, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: neighborhoods, subdivisions

What do mortgage lenders look for on loan applications?

August 5, 2013 by Dargan

One of the best ways of staying ahead of the game is to know the expectations of your opponent. The same holds true for staying ahead of the “lending game.” By knowing what types of things lenders look for when determining creditworthiness, you can presume the outcome and plan accordingly.

Payment History

Some experts suggest that previous payment history can account for nearly 35% of your total creditworthiness. That’s HUGE! Lenders want to know you not only have the ability to pay off your loan but that you will. Experts also suggest that having a favorable payment history can offset other negatives elsewhere.

Length of Credit History

Although there isn’t much you can do about your age, you can begin borrowing at an earlier one. You should never borrow money you don’t need. However–if it makes sense to take out a small car loan or credit card, you can greatly increase your credit score in two years by making loyal payments.

How Much Credit You’re Using

In the eyes of a lender, nearing your maximum credit limit is always a big no-no. Some experts suggest only utilizing 30% of your available limit. In other words, it’s more favorable to utilize three separate credit cards at 30% than to have one completely maxed out.

Proof of Income

If you have a personal freelance or contracting business but don’t file a 1040 at tax time, expect to have a short conversation with lenders. These types of businesses are widely accepted today, but being conservative and having a “W-2” pay-stub will appear more favorable than self-employed.

Mix of Credit

Having a mix of credit (car loan, credit cards, personal lines of credit, etc.) is also pleasing to lenders. It’s indicative of someone with a long and stable credit history.

Collateral

Assets significantly offset a lender’s fear of risk. Having a cushioned 401(k) helps too. Even if they can’t pursue the money, they know it gives you options other than defaulting on your loan.

Recent Credit Efforts

A huge red flag goes up when you’ve recently taken out several different lines of credit. Lenders will question if you can realistically make the mortgage payment if you just financed a new and expensive sports car too.

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: mortgage lending, tips

FAQ: Buyers Market VS. Sellers Market

July 31, 2013 by Dargan

Most homebuyers don’t think about the status of the market when they decide to buy or sell a property because they are more focused on where they plan to live. However, it’s definitely a good thing to keep in mind because it can help you determine how to move forward.

BUYER’S MARKET

If a buyer is looking to purchase a home, an ideal situation would be one where there are more homes available than buyers to purchase them. This is considered a buyer’s market. The buyer has more options to choose from and increases the odds of locating the perfect home. Serious sellers are usually willing to negotiate with buyers in this type of market. The buyer may even be able to purchase a home below its list price, and the seller may offer to pay some (or all) of the closing costs.

Characteristics of a Buyer’s Market: high inventory compared to previous months and/or years, more than six months of inventory available, real estate ads growing in size, For Sale signs staying up for longer periods of time, median sales prices declining

How to Compute Months of Inventory:

# of active listings in the past 30 days / # of sold or closed transactions in the past 30 days

For example, if there were 4,200 active listings in the past 30 days and only 600 sold or closed transactions, the months of inventory would be 7.

SELLER’S MARKET

If a homeowner is hoping to sell their home,  an ideal situation would be one where more buyers want to purchase a home than the number of properties available to buy. This is considered a seller’s market. Sellers are likely to sell their home much more quickly, and often, they sell it for more than the listing price.

Characteristics of a Seller’s Market: low inventory compared to previous months and/or years, less than six months of inventory available, unwavering sales numbers, flat median sales prices, advertising remains unchanged, Pending or Sold signs frequently displayed

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: faq

Essential Address Checklist for New Homebuyers

July 30, 2013 by Dargan

It’s important to inform all of the necessary organizations, businesses, and service providers of your new address after you’ve moved into your new home.

BE PROACTIVE. Ensure a smooth transition by referencing the following checklist:

UTILITY & SERVICE PROVIDERS

(*Be sure to take a meter reading as soon as you move into your new property to make sure you aren’t billed for the previous owners’ utility use.)

Water
Gas
Electric
Telephone/Mobile Provider
Cable/Satellite
Movie Subscriptions (e.g. Netflix)
Trash Pickup/Recycling
Pool Maintenance
Landscaping Services
Pest Control
Housekeeping Services

FINANCIAL PROVIDERS

Bank
Credit Cards/Store Credit Cards
Employer’s HR Department
Pension/Investors
Insurance Policies (Health, Life, Car, Home)
Loan Companies
Accountant/Tax Consultant
Social Security Office

HEALTH PROVIDERS

Doctors
Dentist
Pharmacies
Optician/Ophthalmologist
Veterinarian

OTHER PROVIDERS

Vehicle Registration
Magazine Subscriptions
Club Memberships
Reward/Loyalty Programs
School/College
Post Office
Gym/Health Club
Voter’s Registration
Driver’s License
Place of Worship
Friends and Family

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: moving, tips

Myrtle Beach Subdivisions: Pine Lakes

July 26, 2013 by Dargan

Pine Lakes is one of the oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods in the area and is centrally located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Located less than one mile from the only stretch of coastline without hotels, homes, or condominiums, residents aren’t far from a section of the beach that is often less crowded than others. Public access points are readily available and a trip to the beach can be quickly traveled by golf cart. In addition, there are a number of shopping centers, supermarkets, and award-winning restaurants conveniently located nearby.

Pine Lakes

Pine Lakes was established in 1927, and houses are surrounded by lush pine trees on large, shady lots. Many homes also enjoy pristine views of the golf course. Pine Lakes International Country Club (nicknamed “The Granddaddy”) is world famous and home to the oldest golf course in Myrtle Beach. The course was designed by architect, Robert White–who was also the first president of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) of America and co-founder of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. Pine Lakes’ stately clubhouse is the definition of Southern charm, and its architecture symbolizes the deeply rooted history and tradition of South Carolina. The gorgeous landscaping and historical charm make Pine Lakes Country Club a highly coveted venue for weddings and receptions.

Properties within Pine Lakes are highly sought after and don’t stay on the market for long. CLICK HERE to see properties currently for sale within the Pine Lakes subdivision.

Found something you like? Call Dargan Real Estate at 843-712-2585 to meet with one of our agents TODAY!

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: neighborhoods, subdivisions

The Pros & Cons of HOA’s

July 25, 2013 by Dargan

Homes, condominiums, and townhouses throughout Myrtle Beach (and surrounding areas) are largely located in subdivisions, and these subdivisions are typically governed by a Homeowner’s Association (HOA).  If you plan to move from an area and HOA’s are foreign to you, the following facts should give you a better understanding of what to expect from them.

What is a Homeowner Association (HOA)?

HOA’s are non-profit organizations comprised of voting members who own property or units within the subdivision or community. Memberships are automatic and mandatory upon the purchase of a home in the community. Members elect individuals within the organization to form a Board of Directors. The board members are responsible for enforcing the bylaws set forth in the HOA’s covenant.

What is typically included in the HOA assessment fee?

HOA assessments and all they encompass vary from community to community. Minimally speaking, repairs and maintenance for common elements (e.g. swimming pool, elevator, landscaping) are usually included, and trash disposal or pickup is often covered as well. Some HOA assessments include cable, electricity, insurance coverage, pest control, homeowner management services, and more.

What are the pros and cons?

Pros

Convenience of onsite amenities (swimming pool, clubhouse, exercise facility, playgrounds, tennis courts, security, etc.)

Maintenance and upkeep of common areas

Mediation of neighbor disputes and disturbances

Protected property value due to regulations that help maintain an attractive  and uniform neighborhood

Cons

Assessment fees

Restrictions (e.g. size and/or breed limits for pets, tenants, parking, use of motorcycles, etc.)

Fines for failing to comply with regulations and restrictions

 

Homeowner Associations are perfect for some people and disliked by others. Properties with or without an HOA both have their pros and cons. Weigh each option carefully and decide which one is the best for you. If you decide to purchase a property within an HOA community or complex, always request to see a copy of the covenant or bylaws before signing a purchase agreement. All HOA documents should discuss each item included in the assessment fee and clearly define any restrictions within the community.

 

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach real estate, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: beach, cons, HOA, myrtle, tips

Featured Property: 518 Cottage Oaks Circle Myrtle Beach, SC

July 22, 2013 by Dargan

518 Cottage Oaks Circle Myrtle Beach, SC 29579

Today’s featured property is a gorgeous 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home located in the Myrtle Beach subdivision of River Oaks Cottages. The location of this home is perfect, as it gives you easy access to HWY 501 and HWY 17 Bypass, as well as River Oaks Drive.

Cottage Oaks

This home has excellent curb appeal, is extremely spacious, and loaded with upgrades. There are walk-in closets in EVERY bedroom! Other features include a screened porch with patio, two-car garage, bonus room, and a beautiful gourmet kitchen.

Cottage Oaks Patio

The kitchen, with its many upgrades, is fresh and modern. Tiled backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and hanging lights are the perfect touches. The island bar and accompanying stools are great for quick meals on the go or snacks for the kids.

Cottage Oaks Kitchen

The open floor plan and combined living/dining area form a large and roomy living area. A vaulted ceiling and skylight add to the openness and fill the room with tons of natural light. The bonus room upstairs is cozy and convenient, and it would be great as a lounge or game room for the kids.

Cottage Oaks Living

Cottage Oaks Bonus

There are many things to love about this property from the beautiful yard and patio to the modern kitchen and appliances.

 

Schedule a showing with Deck Dargan today to see all of the many other great features this home has to offer! 843-712-2585

 

 

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach homes for sale, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: featured property

Myrtle Beach Condo Favorites

July 12, 2013 by Dargan

We have recently posted several houses that are available in the Myrtle Beach area, but there are literally thousands of condos to choose from if you prefer the benefits of owning a condominium. Condos on the oceanfront or waterway are usually a bit pricier than purchasing a nearby home because of their location. However, you definitely want to look at waterfront property first if you’re looking to purchase a rental property, as those properties bring in more income. If you have questions about which properties have the best reputations in regard to home owner associations or which ones are popular with vacationers, we are more than happy to answer those questions!

Listed below are just a few Myrtle Beach condominiums that are favorites of both locals and tourists alike!

Sand Dunes – 201 74th Avenue North

Landmark Resort – 1501 S. Ocean Blvd

Myrtle Beach Resort – 5905 S. Kings Hwy

Bluewater Resort – 2001 S. Ocean Blvd

Bay View Resort – 504 N. Ocean Blvd

Bay Watch Resort – 2701 S. Ocean Blvd

Anderson Ocean Club – 2600 N. Ocean Blvd

Caravelle Resort – 6900 N. Ocean Blvd

Grande Dunes – 101 Grande Dunes Blvd

Sandcastle Resort – 2207 S. Ocean Blvd

Kingston Plantation – 9800 Queensway Blvd

Contact us today! 843-712-2585

Filed Under: Myrtle Beach homes for sale, Myrtle Beach SC real estate Tagged With: condos

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9916 North Kings Hwy - Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 | Phone: (843) 712-2585

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