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Hilton Head Island, SC Real Estate News

By John Robinson, REALTOR - Hilton Head Island, SC
(Dunes Marketing Group)
A quit claim deed is the legal way that one person (the grantor) transfers real property, such as a house or land, to another person (the grantee). As an example, a divorcing husband may quit claim his interest in certain real estate to his ex-wife.While the concept is simple and straightforward - relinquishing all ownership claims to a particular property - it's also important to note what a quit claim can't do.In renouncing claim, the grantor makes no guarantee or promise that the property is free of debt. Another important distinction is that the grantor makes no promise that no one else claims to own the property. Tracing its origin to Anglo-Norma times (circa 1,000 CE), the quit claim deed says, in effect, that the grantor is signing over whatever ownership he or she may have in th...
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By John Robinson, REALTOR - Hilton Head Island, SC
(Dunes Marketing Group)
Due to the efforts of our Insurance Commissioner, Scott Richardson, we now have many new insurance companies willing to write business for real estate in our area. All of the companies are A-rated or better and admitted to the State. This means that the insurers are bound by South Carolina's Guarantee Act. These new companies are competitive and give us options so that we are, in most cases, no longer bound to the expensive Lexington and Lloyds products. As a generalization, I would say that insurance prices have dropped to about 1% of the purchase price of the home, sometimes less. This is a considerable drop from the previous year's when it was as much as 2%.I hope this gives you a little insight into the insurance market. My thanks to Kristin Hayrinen at Kinghorn Insurance for her in...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
The new 2009 Loan Limits for FHA Loans were recently announced for Beaufort and Jasper County.  These new limits will take place January 1, 2009 and are as follows: SOUTH CAROLINA CONFORMING LOAN LIMITS for single family units stays the same @ $417,000 FHA LOAN LIMITS FOR BEAUFORT AND JASPER COUNTRY will be $310,500.  If you are hoping to close a loan prior to December 31, 2008, contact your local mortgage representative for information about current limits (which may be a bit higher in certain instances.)
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
I've been pouring over the most recent MLS statistics from the Hilton Head MLS and found some interesting activity in the Port Royal Plantation Market.  The information below represents a comparison from January 1, 2008 to October 31, 2008.  In 2007 there were 52 active listings while in 2008 there are 72 active listings for the same period. 35 Properties sold in 2007 while 30 sold in 2008 showing a 14% decline in the market Percent to Sale Price in 2007 was 93.22% and 91.94% for 2008. Average Sale Price in 2007---$897,557 with 896,500 in 2008. Days on the market in 2007 was 125 and 2008 showed an increase to 157. One must keep in mind that we will see a further decrease in these figures for November and December but all in all, it looks like Port Royal (which incidentally, is one of m...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
This morning I attended a meeting  bright and early at the Sea Pines Country Club.  Since the morning was so glorious, I took my camera with me to take advantage of the beauty Sea Pines has to offer.  I'm sure  when you see these photos, you'll wish you were on the golf course too!  FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SEA PINES REAL ESTATE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I INVITE YOUR INQUIRIES, QUESTIONS AND REFERRALS ANYTIME.   
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
  ARE YOU INTERESTED IN FINDING VERY SPECIAL AND UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFTS?  SURE, WE CAN FIND THE TYPICAL ITEMS AT STORES LIKE TJ MAXX , CIRCUIT CITY AND SAKS, BUT WHY NOT CONSIDER SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL ARTISTS WHO PRODUCT SUCH EXTRAORDINARY ORIGINAL GIFTS? The Art League of Hilton Head will be having a special Holiday Boutique from December 8 until January 30 and will feature works of area artists, all original hand crafted jewelry, ornaments, art, sculpture and pottery.  Plus much more! The event will take place at their Art League store that is located in Pineland Station near the north end of the island.  FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD  I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. FOR ALL OF YOUR HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE NEEDS, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE. ...
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By Willy Fanning, Taking real estate to the next level!
(The Alliance Group Realty)
Greetings from Shipyard! Now that the Presidential Election is past and we all know who will lead the new administration, we can look forward to the upcoming Holiday's. Believe it or not, last night the Mrs. and I saw Holiday lights on the trees being lit here on Hilton Head. Can Santa be far behind? Let's not too far ahead of ourselves, this being November, let's talk Turkey! Thanksgiving has always been a major Holiday in our home. As a child, it was a time to gather with my aunt's, uncle's and cousins at Nana and Poppa Fanning's farmhouse in Southampton, NY.  I became a father for the 1st time on Thanksgiving and two years later for a 2nd time, as well. It has always been a festive day to gather and give thanks for the blessings we have. This year is no exception. I hope you will be ...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
After a review of Hilton Head Island communities, it is interesting to  note that Palmetto Hall Plantation has survived the real estate slowdown in pretty good fashion.   Always a favorite island community, Palmetto Hall is conveniently located at the north end of the island and one of the most recently developed plantations on the island.  PALMETTO HALL REAL ESTATE STATISTICS YEAR TO DATE: In 2007, there were 20 homes sold as compared to 19 in 2008.  The percent to sales ratio  fell from 96% in 2007 to 93.80% in 2008  (still respectable as compared to many national statistics.) 2007 Average Sale Price---$706,885 2008 Average Sale Price---$625,263  2007 Average days on the market---87 2008 Average days on the market---181  (quite an increase!) Looking at these statistics, it is easy to...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
Mark your calendar and be sure to  bring the kids to Shelter Cove on Saturday, November 29th for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting.  The seasonal event is always eagerly anticipated by Hilton Head and Bluffton families.  Enjoy the carols, crafts and a special visit from St. Nicholas.  What a nice way to start the holiday season plus it's a free event for the community!  for more information, contact 842-ARTS---www.artshhi.com Time:  3:30-5:00 PM
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
www.wellnessdestinationscentral.com I found this site in a local magazine and when I finally found time to investigate, I was literally blown away by the depth of information.  This is the fastest growing online directory of alternative therapiesand wellness practitioners.  I checked the Hilton Head area......There were many providers that I had no idea existed.  Take a moment and visit this site.  It lists just about every possible alternative health modality that is in existence.  If you're interested in more than mainstream medicine, this site will be of value.
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
With all of the numerous dining opportunities in Hilton Head, some just seem to stick and become "let's go back to" establishments.......Mainly Sandstone is definitely a Keeper! Although not new to the Hilton Head catering crowd, the owners recently opened a location @ 35 Main Street, Hilton Head that offers a dine in or take out experience. The food is exemplary to say the least!  Freshly prepared each day, there is something for everyone with the emphasis on healthy cuisine.  But that sure doesn't mean boring.  Prices are excellent and service is unsurpassed.  So if you're near the north end of the island, make sure you stop by and visit the fine folks at Sandstone.....You'll not be disappointed.  For more information -----681-5732 FOR ALL OF YOUR HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE ...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
I'm really impressed with the "Green Efforts" taking place at Sea Pines Montessori School.....with 2 of my grandchildren currently enrolled, I've had the opportunity to witness their new environmental policies.  This year, the children are participating in collecting recyclables in each individual classroom.  Additinally, parents are providing recyclable products in the children's daily lunch to cut waste.  No more paper napkins--my grandkids take organic napkins to school.  The Green Apple Boutique will being operations in the school lobby this month.  Free trade, organic and eco friendly products will be offered for sale.  What a  great way to educate the little ones! Emphasis is also placed on healthy eating....students are not allowed processed or sugar dense foods or beverages.  He...
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By John March, "Engage, connect, prosper" (Matt 6:33)
(Charisma Media Group, LLC)
Golfers from 15 Harris Teeter Senior Amateur Tours, will compete on Hilton Head Island. A field of 140 Senior Golf competitors is expected to tee it up on the Oyster Reef and the Barony course at Port Royal during the 36-hole stroke-play championship, on the 11th and 12th of Novemeber. The annual skins game will take place at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, the 11th at the Barony. They will be welcomed into a brand new clubhouse which will be used during the tournament. There are four flights and the prize pool will consist of $10,000 in gift certificates  Port Royal was recognized as a "1997 Silver Medal Resort" by Golf Magazine for its three spectacular 18-hole golf courses, The Barony, Planter's Row, and Robber's Row. Map and Directions For more info, call (843) 681-1760
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
FOR TRUE EMERGENCIES, ALWAYS DIAL 911- CONTACT INFORMATION FOR POLICE, SHERIFF AND HIGHWAY PATROL IN BEAUFORT COUNTY: Beaufort County Hilton Head Sheriff's Office     843.842.4111     Evenings:  785-3618 Beaufort Office:    843.470.3200 Bluffton Police Department:  843.706.4550 South Carolina Highway Department  843.953.6010 You never know when these phone numbers may come in handy---so why not bookmark this and keep it where you'll be able to access it if necessary.  PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE. I WELCOME YOUR INQUIRIES, QUESTIONS AND REFERRALS!
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
Without too much fanfare or objection, Hilton Head residents gave their overwhelming approval to the town referendum that would allow Hilton Head to borrow $17 Million to shore up the town's land buying fund.  According to the Island Packet Newspaper, over 74% of voters  said yes to the referendum. This is nothing new to Hilton Head residents, since 1977  there have been 5 referendums put before the public and all of them have overwhelmingly passed.......our community has a clear vision of how they want their island preserved.  This will equate to $8 added to resident's tax bills for every $200,000 of appraised value---a small price to pay to keep land from being commercially developed.  I'm pleased our community stepped up to the plate and voted yes! 
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
   I'm quite sure that no one will be surprised with this month's Hilton Head Plantation Market Report.  In short, IT WAS A VERY VERY QUIET MONTH.  I've always wondered by October is such a horrid month for the stock market?  It appears this month's stock market performance had a trickle down effect on area real estate performance.  WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?  Simply, good news for buyers ( in fact the best news they could imagine) and not so good news for sellers.  Sellers, you'll need to be VERY realistic if you are planning on selling your home by year's end.  FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER, HILTON HEAD PLANTATION SAW THE FOLLOWING RESULTS:  There werre 17 new listings that came on the market with an average listing price of $782,278. Pending activity was 7 with an average list price of $402,02...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
Dining out in Hilton Head can be a HUGE decision-----you see, we have over 250 restaurants on the island and I don't know of anyone who has ever visited all of them.  Tourists always ask residents for recommendations and if you had 5 people together, no one would ever have the same choices. The Hilton Head Chamber of Commerce just announced an interesting addition to their website:  They've launched a Micro-site Culinary Dining Guide.  This is a great site that allows residents and visitors to log on and search for a restaurant by cuisine or location.  There's also a link to the restaurant's website and menu.   As an added incentive, the Chamber is holding a contest.  If anyone visits at least 10 of the restaurants, they can enter a contest to receive a $100 dining certificate.   If you...
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By Larry Meyers, Hilton Head Island Real Estate
(Larry Meyers Real Estate )
The state of Wall Street has many people wondering what will happen to their Real Estate market. The truth is, it's still too early to tell and anyone who says different is just jumping to conclusions. These are trying times on Wall Street. It's hard to get a grip on what's happening with financial firms, the government and how this will affect us and the Real Estate market. Institutions are going bankrupt, write downs, and mergers. It's a little scary. That said, consider history and consider, "Who's your Daddy?" Real Estate!What do people do when there's no where to invest in the stock market? They buy Real Estate. What do people do when interest rates are at historical lows? They buy Real Estate. What do people do when prices of Real Estate are at bargain prices? They buy Real Estate...
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
I was thinking  maybe it is a bit early to talk about the annual Salvation Army Angel Tree that once again will be at Shelter Cove Mall but since this Christmas will be more difficult for most families, I decided to go ahead with this blog.  Each year, the Salvation Army features the Angel Tree. It's a wonderful community endeavor.  Shoppers can pick an angel from the tree and then purchase a gift for a special needy child.    Then you  drop off your gift at center court l with the child's name attached prior to December 15th.  I'm hoping that our Hilton Head and Bluffton residents pick 2 ANGELS this year--not just 1 because I know we will have many needy children this year.  Let's open our hearts----that's the special meaning of Christmas.
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By Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton
(Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC)
After MANY months of patient and not so patient negotiating, it looks like plans for a new movie theater for The Mall at Shelter Cove may be moving ahead.  It appears that after months of going back and forth with town officials, there will soon be a vote by Hilton Head Town Council. Negotiations have been taking place since July of 2007 with most residents eagerly awaiting a postivie outcome.  I say "most" because with any new development on the island, some residents quickly embrace and others prefer the status quo.  I believe this new theater (which will be 12 screens) is vital to the community as well as the continued success of the mall.  Currently, there are many vacancies in the mall---hopefully the addition of a new theater and some new dining options, will cast a more positive ...
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