Myrtle Beach Attractions

October 12, 2013 by Dargan

One of the greatest perks of living in Myrtle Beach is the endless list of attractions. I thought I’d mention a few of them for any new residents in the area or for those of you who may be in town on vacation.

Alabama Theatre – routinely produces live shows and concerts; currently features ONE The New Show every day with the exception of Saturday; Charley Pride will be performing this Saturday (the 12th), Bill Cosby next Saturday (the 19th), and Merle Haggard on the 26th

4750 US 17 | North Myrtle Beach, SC

Alligator Adventure – one of the largest facilities for reptile life in the world

Adults – $19.99, Seniors 62+ – $17.99, Children 4-12 – $14.99, Children 3 & under – Free

4604 US 17 | North Myrtle Beach, SC

Barefoot Landing – combines beauty & nature with shopping, dining, entertainment, and special events

4898 US 17 | North Myrtle Beach, SC

Broadway at the Beach – dining, nightlife, attractions, shopping, movies, fireworks, and special events

1325 Celebrity Circle | Myrtle Beach, SC

Brookgreen Gardens – garden museum that preserves flora and fauna in their natural settings and the gardens also display objects of art

1931 Brookgreen Drive | Pawley’s Island, SC

Coastal Grand Mall – shopping mail with approximately 130 shops and restaurants

2000 Coastal Grand Circle | Myrtle Beach, SC

Family Kingdom Amusement Park – the only seaside amusement park in Myrtle Beach with more than 30 thrilling rides

300 S Ocean Blvd | Myrtle Beach, SC

Frank Theatres CineBowl & Grille – movies, bowling, games, bar, and grille

10125 Frontage Rd #12f Murrells Inlet, SC

Good Vibrations @ The Carolina Opry – live musical production featuring hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s

8901 N Kings HWY Myrtle Beach, SC

House of Blues – venue for concerts, special events, dining, and Kirk Franklin’s Gospel Brunch

4640 Hwy 17 S | North Myrtle Beach, SC

Legends in Concert – live celebrity tribute shows currently featuring Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Cher, The Blues Brothers, and Roy Orbison; tickets range in price from $9.95 – $50.95

2925 Hollywood Drive | Myrtle Beach, SC

Market Common – upscale urban center offering many options for shopping and dining

4017 Deville Street | Myrtle Beach, SC

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament – dinner theatre consisting of a four-course meal with live jousting tournament and awe-inspiring horsemanship

2904 Fantasy Way | Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach Skywheel – 187-foot tall Ferris wheel situated as a centerpiece of the 1.2 mile-long Oceanfront boardwalk and Promenade

1110 N Ocean Blvd | Myrtle Beach, SC

NASCAR SpeedPark – family amusement park offering a variety of race tracks and arcade games

1820 21^st Avenue North | Myrtle Beach, SC

Palace Theatre – hosts a wide variety of fantastic and exciting live shows, entertainment, and Broadway theatre productions; new shows for 2013 include Hot Jersey Nights, Illusions of Magic, and Hot Jersey Nights Christmas Special

1420 Celebrity Circle | Myrtle Beach, SC

Ripley’s Aquarium – glide on a 330 foot moving path beneath the dangerous reef, touch sharks and stingrays, and experience the world of sharks, eels, colorful fish, and poisonous predators

1110 Celebrity Circle | Myrtle Beach, SC

WonderWorks – interactive attraction that features over 100 hands-on exhibits and fun for all ages

1313 Celebrity Circle | Myrtle Beach, SC

Festive Fall Decor

October 2, 2013 by Dargan

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!

20 Great Travel Tips

September 30, 2013 by Dargan

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!

Myrtle Beach Area Events: September 26 – 30

September 27, 2013 by Dargan

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!

Local: Historical Buildings in Horry & Georgetown Counties

September 25, 2013 by Dargan

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

U.S. Post Office Georgetown

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.

Myrtle Beach Neighborhoods & Communities: Market Common

September 18, 2013 by Dargan

Market Common is a relatively new community located on what was previously the old Air Force base (also commonly referred to as the “Back Gate”) between Myrtle Beach and Socastee, South Carolina. The community is well-known for its urban feel, beautifully designed buildings, and an abundance of boutiques and restaurants.

Apartments

The community offers studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom apartment homes located over retail shops. The apartment views are awesome, as they look down over the charming and manicured streets. In addition, the buildings that house these swanky apartment homes offer security with a locked keypad entry.

The apartment homes are available for long-term rentals, as well as short-term. If you’re looking for a new and unique place to stay during your visit to the area, Market Common would be a great place to choose.

Homes

There are two different types of homes available within the Market Common community.

Classic Rowhomes – three-level residences that feature a one or two car garage and gourmet kitchen; end units include a front courtyard enclosed by a decorative fence; a variety of brick elevations create a picture reminiscent of Charleston and Savannah

Sweetgrass Square Single Family Homes & Townhomes – lowcountry styled homes with an abundance of windows and porches; tall ceilings and granite countertops are just a few of the great features found throughout these Southern homes

Market Common Shops & Boutiques

Anthropologie

Barnes & Noble Bookstore

Bath & Body Works

Bijuju – an accessory boutique

Canipes Chocolates & Candies

Chico’s

CityMac – authorized Apple service provider and reseller

Coastal Urge – outdoor apparel, gear, and swimwear

Coldwater Creek

Current XXVII Boutique – name brand clothing & accessories

Devo Olive Oil Co.

Dixie Divas – women’s boutique specializing in clothing, purses, shoes, accessories, and Western boots

Francesca’s Collections

Handpicked – jewelry, monogrammed sterling silver gifts, & accessories

iGames by City Mac – intelligent & interactive games & puzzles for both adults & children

Ivy & Leo – apparel, footwear, & accessories

Kangaroo Pouch Baby Boutique

Lazy Gator – unique, locally-owned gift shop

Orvis

Pottery Barn

random. – men’s and women’s fashion

Rug Décor

Soma Intimates

Sunglasses Hut

Victoria’s Secret

White House | Black Market

Williams Sonoma

Xtreme Surf & Skate

Restaurants

Cold Stone Creamery

Divine Prime Wine/Tapas Bar

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant

King Street Grille

Nacho Hippo

Orange Leaf Yogurt

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro

Travinia Italian Kitchen

Ultimate California Pizza

Other Businesses

Coastal Dance Centre – a classical ballet training school; offers professional, recreational dance classes for both children & adults (ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theater), plus Zumba & toning classes

Dolce Lusso Salon & Spa

Distinctive Eyewear Vision Center

Grand 14 Cinema

Lindsey Mills Photography Studio

Piggly Wiggly

Seacoast Artists Gallery – non-profit organization dedicated to promoting visual arts

Santee Cooper Credit Bureau

Stage Left Theatre Company

Yoga in Common

In addition to the numerous shops and restaurants, Market Common is the host for many local events. Other nearby amenities include walking and bike trails, lakes, recreational facility, baseball & soccer fields, and a gated dog park.

The Buyer’s Guide to Condos & Townhouses

September 4, 2013 by Dargan

As home prices continue to rise, many homebuyers are considering condos or townhomes because they’re less expensive to buy. The good news: Myrtle Beach has a huge selection of condominiums to choose from and many offer an added benefit–gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean!

Buying a condo can be a great alternative to buying a house. However, the decision to purchase a condo is just as complex as it is with a house. PLUS–there’s a few additional things to consider.

Don’t worry; we’re here to help you sort it all out.

HOAs

We’ve already discussed the Pros & Cons of HOAs (Home Owner Associations), but homebuyers often forget to consider them before purchasing a condo.

While it’s definitely important to consider the cost of a monthly assessment fee (fees in Myrtle Beach range from $200 to $550 a month), it’s more important to determine the return investment on your money. For example, one HOA might offer the lowest fee but neglect to properly collect fees from members. That poses a huge problem when expensive repairs are needed because it could end up costing you more money in the long run.

Find out how delinquent dues are handled. Look through financial documents for upcoming assessments and the current amount held in reserve. Is it enough to cover the cost of upcoming repairs?

It’s also a good idea to call the property manager for additional information about the services offered and the property’s current financial situation. The more you ask, the better.

In addition, thoroughly read and consider the HOA rules and regulations or covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R’s). Rules can dictate anything from what you can place on the balcony or hang on the front door to what types of pets are allowed on the property, if any.

You need to know if there’s anything listed in the covenant that you can’t live with or can’t live without.

Property Management

It’s often difficult to find public information about the property management of a specific complex. The best way to determine the overall happiness of residents is to ask for a copy of the minutes from the last board meeting. Reading over the meeting minutes will provide a general idea of any issues neighbors may be arguing about, the types of repairs coming up, and the amount of money being spent.

Also–if you get an opportunity to meet a current resident, ask them any questions you may have about the property.

Lifestyle

It’s important to remember that living in a condo or townhouse is much different than living in a single-family home. These differences include shared walls, added noise, and close interaction with neighbors. Are you prepared to live with these changes?

Questions to Consider:

What is the parking situation? Are spots reserved? Where are visitors required to park?

Are there quiet hours?

Are homeowners allowed to offer their unit as a vacation rental? Are homeowners allowed to lease their unit to short-term or long-term tenants?

What percentage of units are occupied by owners? *The higher the percentage, the more marketable the property should be at resale.

How much turnover occurs in the building? *This should tell you how happy owners are with the property. The average stay in a two-to-four unit building is five years and the average stay in a building with 5+ units is four years.

Is the building currently involved in litigation? *This is a bad sign. Attorney and court fees will eat away at the reserve and likely drive up assessment fees.

How much (and how often) have fees been raised in the past?

What amenities and maintenance is included in the assessment fee?

Does the monthly assessment fee include the cost of insurance on the building?

What special quarterly or annual fees have been mandated in the last five to ten years? How much was each owner required to pay?

Final Walk-through Checklist

August 27, 2013 by Dargan

Over the past few months, you’ve searched high and low for the perfect place to create a new life for your family. Now that your search is over and an offer has been accepted, you’re giddy with excitement as you approach the closing date. However, there’s still one very important thing to complete: the final walk-through.

The walk-through process can take place anywhere from several hours to several days before closing. It’s important to take the necessary time to perform a thorough walk-through to ensure the home is in the condition it was promised. If you spot something worrisome, talk to your agent about it as soon as possible. He or she will strive to quickly resolve the issue to avoid a potential delay in closing.

If the property is still occupied by the current owner at the time of the walk-through, it might benefit you to ask them to be present. This would be a great opportunity to ask about any improvements they’ve wanted to make to the property. It’s also a good idea (as well as a kind gesture) to ask the seller for their forwarding address to route any stray mail.

We created a checklist to use as a guide during the walk-through process. Some items on the list may not apply to your specific property and there may also be others you should consider that aren’t mentioned.

To avoid overlooking a potential issue… walk into each room and ask yourself the following question: “Is there anything that could pose a potential risk, decrease the value of the home, or cause me to lose a significant amount of money should it need to be repaired soon after I close?”

Final Walk-through Checklist	Completed
Flip each light fixture on and off.
Run the water in each sink. Are there signs of a leak?
Do all appliances work properly (stove, oven, washer, dryer, microwave)?
Do the toilets flush efficiently?
Does the garbage disposal work properly?
Do the exhaust fans run quietly and smoothly?
Test the garage door opener. Does it work?
Is there damage to the walls or floors from the previous owner’s move?
Test the heating and air conditioning. Are they heating and cooling?
Open and close all windows. Do they open and close easily?
Latch and unlatch windows. Do they latch and unlatch easily?
Check for condensation in double-paned windows.
Do the doorbells, alarms, and intercoms work properly?
Does the shower drain properly and efficiently?
Are the plate covers on all light switches?
Check outdoor features (play equipment, pool, hoses, hot tub, sauna, sprinkler system).
Is there a pest control issue that needs to be accessed?
Is the property clean and devoid of debris?
Is the attic and/or basement cleared out and clean?
Did the previous owner leave behind warranties or manuals that may be needed?
Did you previously request any repair work? If so, has it been completed?

The final walk-through is now complete and any issues found have been resolved. You’ve covered all of your bases and should feel confident about the quality of your new home. Go ahead and breathe a huge sigh of relief. YOU’VE EARNED IT!

Selling your home? 7 Things You Shouldn’t Do

August 26, 2013 by Dargan

1. Don’t set an unrealistic asking price.

You’re aware of the price you originally paid for your house and the amount of money you’ve spent updating it. But those amounts may not be what your home is worth today. Your home is only worth the amount of money you can get for it. Your realtor is aware of the price similar homes in your area are selling for today. Pricing it too high will discourage buyers and will likely result in the property sitting on the market for months.

2. Don’t forget to market your property.

The only way to be sure you’ll get the highest possible price for your home is to utilize every marketing tool available to you. This means advertising the home on the internet with quality photographs, hosting open houses, and mailing out post cards to potential buyers. Don’t expect sticking a “For Sale” sign in the front yard is enough to bring in buyers.

3. Don’t skimp on photos.

Listing photographs give buyers their first impression of a home. Don’t skimp on them; the more pictures, the better. Just be sure to clean and clear out clutter before the photographs are taken. Buyers may not even consider viewing your home if they don’t like what they see in your photos.

4. Don’t neglect to fix things that are broken or attempt to hide them from buyers.

When buyers walk through your home and see several things that need to be repaired, they’ll question how well you’ve maintained the property over the years and wonder about any problems they can’t see. A home inspection will bring any problems to light so it’s best to be upfront about them or repair the issues before you list the property.

5. Don’t get emotionally involved.

You’ve probably spent many years creating a home exactly the way you want it. The perfect home you’ve created is probably not the same as someone else’s perfect home. Don’t take it personally if the buyer wants to change certain things about it before they agree to a purchase. First and foremost, think of the selling process as a business transaction. By thinking about it from a financial standpoint, it’s easier to distance yourself from the emotional aspect of it.

6. Don’t neglect to properly prepare your home before you list it.

You want to put your best home forward during the selling process. It’s imperative to adequately prep your home before listing it or you’re just throwing money down the drain. Clean the dingy rugs, get rid of the pesky odors, and clean out all the clutter to make a lasting impression on buyers and keep the sale price where it should be.

7. Don’t get offended by a low offer.

If a buyer makes an offer on your home that’s way below the asking price, don’t take it personally. Don’t get so offended that you walk away from the offer altogether. Now’s your chance to negotiate. Buyers are trying to purchase a home at the lowest price possible. You can’t blame them for trying. Make a counter offer. Buyers usually come back with an offer that’s more indicative of the price they’re willing to pay.

Contact Dargan Real Estate for more advice about selling your home.

843-712-2585

Mortgage Options

August 21, 2013 by Dargan

There are several different options available in the world of mortgage loans. Selecting the best option for your home buying needs is an important decision because it is likely to effect your budget for many years.

Listed below is a quick breakdown of several mortgage loan options and what you can expect of them.

Fixed Rate Mortgages

Advantages: predictable monthly payments, easy to budget, available in a variety of term options

Disadvantages: higher interest rates, harder to obtain with poor credit

By and large, fixed rate mortgages are the most popular and account for nearly 75{8a4f45d74d514e6dd6794b8c6dd875260e3343c96bf403696e21fc128bbedf7b} of all loans. They usually span over 10, 15, or 30 years but can also span 5, 20, 40, or 50 years.

The interest rate of a fixed mortgage stays the same for the entire duration of the loan which allows the benefit of a predictable monthly payment. These mortgages rates are easier to budget because they never change. Also, if interest rates are really high when you take out the loan, you can refinance the loan when the rates go down.

Adjustable or Variable Rate Mortgages

Advantages: lower interest rates with higher loan amounts, provide flexibility

Disadvantages: risky, unpredictable

Types

One Year Adjustable Rate Mortgage (also known as Adjustable Rate Mortgages or ARMs)

The interest rates on an adjustable mortgage change after a fixed period of time. They are much riskier than fixed rate mortgages because the payments can change dramatically. On the flip side, the buyer usually qualifies for a higher loan amount which allows the purchase of a more valuable property.

Hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgages

Hybrid adjustable mortgages combine the qualities of both a fixed mortgage rate and an adjustable mortgage rate. The initial interest rate is fixed for a set period of time at the beginning of the loan and is followed by an adjustable rate for the remainder.

Types of Hybrid ARMs

10/1 Adjustable Rate Mortgage – fixed for the first 10 years; rate adjusts each year after the fixed rate period

5/5 and 5/1 Adjustable Mortgages – fixed for the first 5 years; rate adjusts every 5 years or every year after the fixed rate period

3/3 and 3/1 Adjustable Mortgages – fixed for the first 3 years; rate adjusts every 3 years or every year after fixed rate period

2-Step Mortgage – fixed for a designated time period and adjusts to a different fixed rate for the remainder of the loan

Balloon Mortgage

This mortgage option is for a much shorter term and offers a much lower payment than a fixed rate mortgage.

Features: shorter terms (usually five to seven years); homeowner makes monthly payments at a set interest rate for the duration of the loan term and pays off the rest of the principal, takes on a new mortgage, or sells the home at the end of the fixed period

Advantages: lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, larger loan amounts

Disadvantages: extremely risky, large financial obligation at the end of the loan’s life, must refinance mortgage if unable to pay the principal when the term ends and could face unaffordable terms if interest rates have risen or credit has deteriorated since the loan was issued

—

Find out more about the different types of loans available by contacting a trusted mortgage advisor.

HAPPY 75th BIRTHDAY, MYRTLE BEACH!

July 20, 2013 by Dargan

In 1937, Myrtle Beach became an incorporated town and this year marks its 75th anniversary!

A huge celebration and Beach Music Festival is happening downtown today to honor the anniversary of this great city, as well as the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. The festival kicks off on the old Pavilion grounds, between Eight and Ninth avenues North on Ocean Boulevard. Performances will feature beach music from The Catalinas, The Original Drifters, and The Temptation Review–a Temptations cover band.

In addition to music, Katherine Kallinis Berman and Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne, owners of Georgetown Cupcakes and sisters who appeared on TLC’s DC Cupcakes, are attempting to build a 7,500 cupcake pyramid! If they succeed, they will break the world record for the largest cake ever made out of cupcakes. You can enjoy the cupcakes beginning at 7 p.m.

According to an article written by WMBF news, those who attend are encouraged to use the hashtag #myr75 on Twitter and Instagram to share their experiences at the celebration.

The fun doesn’t end there.

Tomorrow, July 21, The Salt Games at Plyler Park (on the beach at North Ocean Boulevard and Mr. Joe White Avenue) will be an all-day event presented by Native Sons Screen Print & Embroidery and benefits the Grand Strand’s chapter of the Surfrider Foundation.

The Salt Games, which is being compared to a “beach themed” X Games, will consist of several different competitions and winners go home with prize money! The entire event is free to the public, with the exception of competition entry fees. It starts at 9 a.m. with a two-person team volleyball tournament, and prizes include $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place. Entry into the tournament is $30 per person.

This is the listed schedule of events:

9 to 10 a.m. – Yoga in the Park. Bring your own mat.

10 to 11 a.m. – Paddleboard Race (Registration is $25.)

10 to 1 p.m. – CrossFit Dog Summer Games (Registration is $65.)

11 a.m. to Noon – Kids’ Shark Run around 14th Avenue Pier (Ages 5 to 12. Register online.)

Noon to 12:20 p.m. – Sea Salt Margarita Challenge (The challenge involves running into the ocean, dunking your head, and filling up a giant margarita glass with water. The winner takes home a gift basket.)

1 to 1:30 p.m. – Tug-of-War (Restaurant gift cards are awarded to the winning team.)

3 to 3:45 p.m. – Boots & Bikini Contest (The winner takes home $500, and the top eight finishers are invited to participate in Club Rodeo’s official Boots & Bikini Contest for a chance at a $10,000 prize. Register online.)

3:50 to 4:20 p.m. – Salt Shaker Game (A box similar to that of a tissue box is tied around the waist. Six ping pong balls are inside the box and must be shaken out. Winners earn restaurant gift cards.)

5 to 5:45 p.m. – Chief Kamu’s Fire Dancers performance

6 to 8 p.m. – Lifeguard Games (More than 300 lifeguards will compete in four-person team relay swims and 1-on-1 land drills.)

6 to 11 p.m. – Concerts performed by Jah Creation and Ten Toes Up

Other events include a live remote with WKZQ, caricatures and face painting, DJ from noon to 4 p.m., and an amateur half-pipe open to the public from 1 to 4 p.m.

The Salt Games definitely sound like a fun way to spend the day on Sunday. Visit the Salt Games website for more information.

Regardless of your weekend plans, be sure you head out to celebrate and enjoy this great city on its 75th anniversary!

10 DIY Home Decorating Projects

July 17, 2013 by Dargan

Last week, I posted a few simple things that can be done to stage your home in a way that entices buyers. I recently read a great article on Better Homes & Gardens website that listed several DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects that are quick and easy. I thought I’d share a few of them, along with a few Pinterest finds, for more ideas on adding that extra oomph to the decor in your already great property!

1. DIY Pouf

For approximately $50, add extra seating or a footrest with style to any room by making this DIY pouf. Download step-by-step instructions and take advantage of BHG’s free pattern here.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

2. DIY Lamp Revamp

Add your own personal style to an old lamp by using ribbon and spray paint. Spray paint the base with a metallic colored paint and wrap shiny ribbon in fun, bold patterns around the lampshade. Secure the ribbon with a hot glue gun or pins. Paint your favorite quote, poem, love note, or Bible verse with acrylic paint around the lampshade instead, like Micheala at Happy Apple did in the picture shown below.

Photograph Source: Happy Apple

3. DIY Photograph Masterpiece

Find simple objects you love and take pictures of them. Play around with the hue, saturation, and brightness of the photograph with an online photo editing tool. (Clueless about photo editing? PicMonkey offers a free online editor that doesn’t require a user login and is fairly simple to use.) After you’ve created the perfect picture, order large prints and frame them on black mats with white frames for a sleek modern touch.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

4. DIY Bathroom Wall Design

Randomly place wall decals for added flare to your bathroom walls. They are relatively cheap and create a completely new look.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

5. DIY Roller Shade Accents

Find your favorite fabric, ask a retailer to cut the shade to fit your windows, and insert a curtain rod in the bottom pocket. Read the entire DIY description here.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

6. DIY Marble Art

Marbleizing is so trendy right now. Create your own personal marble art by marbleizing paper, scanning it, and sending the design to a print center to be printed on canvas. Waterpaper color works best for this project.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Directions: Fill an aluminum baking pan with about an inch of water and place it outside or on top of a drop cloth. Drop generous amounts of acrylic paint into the water in a range of coordinating colors across the surface. Mix the colors gently with a stirrer or toothpick. Too much stirring creates muddy colors so try to swirl the paint instead. Gently place a piece of the paper on top of the water and carefully lift it off. Rubber gloves will keep your hands clean. Add more paint after using three or four sheets. Alternate with contrasting colors and shades. Place the dipped paper on newspaper to dry or hang it on a clothesline with clothes pins. After the paper is completely dry, flatten it overnight by pressing it between two books.

7. DIY Patterned Furniture

One of the easiest DIY home projects is simply painting a piece of old furniture. Freshen it up a bit by replacing the knobs or handles and painting patterns or designs on drawer fronts or tabletops with paint pens.

Photograph Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Photograph Source: Pin found on Pinterest of Craigslist posting

8. DIY Candle Cylinders

Transform a candle into a beautiful centerpiece by wrapping pre-punched paper found at craft stores around a glass cylinder. Voila!

Photograph Source: WeHeartIt.com

9. DIY Stone Tub

You must admit, adding stone to a bathtub is pretty genius. Blogger Rachael at Lovely Crafty Home created a brand new tub by applying a lightweight stone to it with adhesive!

Photograph Source: Lovely Crafty Home

I’m sold! On the project AND the home!

10. DIY Crate Bookshelf

Build your own crate bookshelf with crates found at any craft store. Spray paint them any color you choose and secure them together with bolts. You can find complete step-by-step instructions from the blogger and inventor herself, at Calm Cradle .

Photograph Source: Calm Cradle

Largest Increase To Pending Home Sales In 7 Years!

July 9, 2013 by Dargan

The latest real estate news remains positive!

The housing market has shown increased improvements over the past year. These improvements are visible in a variety of statistics, including those related to the increased number of home sales.

According to a report at Realtor.com, the number of pending home sales in May increased by 6.7 percent from those seen in April with a total increase of 12.1 percent this year. That’s the largest increase for the housing market since 2006! It also marks the 25th consecutive month in which there was an annual increase reported.

According to the National Association of Realtors, prices are projected to rise approximately 10 percent from those in 2012 by the end of the year. This rise could be the result of buyers hoping to take advantage of current prices before potential increases in mortgage interest rates. Despite those probable increases, buyers will likely continue to rise in the market by the end of the year. Even with the predicted higher interest rates, prices will still be more affordable than those that were in place prior to the financial downturn. The price increases aren’t all bad either because they’re likely to encourage potential sellers and loosen the demand that has been building among buyers for some time.

Celebrating Independence Day Along The Grand Strand

July 1, 2013 by Dargan

The smell of hot dogs on the grill and sounds of booming fireworks are probably a few things that come to mind when you think about celebrating the birth of our Nation. Add in the sight of a moonlit ocean, the feel of white sand between your toes, and the smell of salt in the air, and you’ll quickly realize there’s no better time to own property in Myrtle Beach.

There are a vast number of choices along the Grand Strand when it comes to deciding how to celebrate this Fourth of July. Grilling out back is always a fine idea, but we’ve got you covered if you’d prefer to venture out on the town for food, fun, and fireworks.

WEDNESDAY
To kick off your holiday celebration a little early, watch the Pelicans play ball at TicketReturn.com Field, and stay around for their fireworks show after the game. TicketReturn.com Field is located at 1251 21st Avenue North (across from Broadway at the Beach).

THURSDAY
Think you’re a pro at eating cupcakes? Celebrate at Croissants Bistro and Bakery (3751 Robert Grissom Parkway, Myrtle Beach) by entering their 2nd Annual 4th of July Cupcake Eating Contest. Contest from 3 to 5 p.m.

If you’re big on parades, head down to the intersection of Highway 17 Business and Calhoun Street in Garden City Beach for their 4th of July Garden City Golf Cart Parade. Line-up begins at 2 p.m. Parade starts at 3 p.m.

Another fun parade, as well as a long-standing, 4th of July tradition, is the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade. The parade begins at 5:45 p.m. along the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk. After the parade, enjoy fireworks from Garden City Point at 9:30 p.m. and the Marsh Walk at 10 p.m.

However you choose to spend your day, keep an eye out for vintage military aircraft flying overhead. Despite the sequester, volunteers have continued to make the annual “Salute from the Shore” possible this year. The flyover will start at the North Carolina border at 1 p.m. and will continue to fly south over every beach in South Carolina. You can locate the flight schedule on the webpage salutefromtheshore.org.

As for fireworks, you can expect shows from every location along the Grand Strand.

In Myrtle Beach, Broadway at the Beach will display their annual 4th of July display at 10 p.m. over Lake Broadway. You can also watch a patriotic juggler and live music from the Celebrity Square stage starting at 7 p.m. (1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach)

In Murrells Inlet, as previously mentioned, fireworks will be displayed along the Marsh Walk at 10 p.m.

In Garden City Beach, as previously mentioned, fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m. from Garden City Point.

In Surfside Beach, a 4th of July Celebration will kick off at 6 p.m. and last through 10 p.m. Enjoy fireworks with live entertainment at Surfside Drive and Ocean Boulevard. Fireworks will be displayed from the Surfside Beach Pier at 9:30 p.m. (11 North Ocean Boulevard, Surfside Beach)

In North Myrtle Beach, fireworks will be displayed at Barefoot Landing at 10:15 p.m. (4898 Highway 17, North Myrtle Beach)

In Cherry Grove, fireworks can be seen at the Cherry Grove Pier at 9:30 p.m. (3500 North Ocean Boulevard, North Myrtle Beach)

Dargan Real Estate wishes you all a safe and happy Fourth of July!

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