Good news from Hilton Head Plantation!  Plans are underway to possibly start a music club in the Plantation.  This would be a first and I think it's a great idea!  Well,  I used to play the violin but I definitely don't think they would want me in THIS band.  I think my grandson plays the violin much better than I would at this point in life.  With over 4000 homes and more than 8000 people  in the Plantation, I don't think it would be too difficult to get a group of residents together with the idea of forming a band that would give concerts and perform at area events.  Of course, whether this gets started or not, depends on community support.  With such a diverse and talented group of residents, I'm betting this one is a GO! Area resident Guy Bettarelli is spearheading the new venture. ... 10/01/2008

Meet Dori--a precious little kitty currently living at the Hilton Head Humane Association, an example of an exemplary No Kill Humane Association.  Dori was recently named the Pet of the Week, up for adoption and featured in our local newspaper, the Island Packet.   I've always been fond of gray kitties and this one is no exception.  I hope someone adopts her really soon.  If you are interested in knowing more about Dori or any other pets at the Association, please contact these wonderful folks @ 843-681-8686.  They'll be more than happy for you to stop by for a visit.  They also welcome volunteers.  Believe me, there's a job for everyone from walking the pets each day to helping with the grooming.  Guess you know this association is near and dear to my heart! FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HILTO... 09/30/2008

In today's complex real estate environment, getting a satisfactory appraisal that enables you to refinance your home can seem like ealking a plank off a ship.  With banks and appraisers become much more conservative, here are some tips thst should help you achieve your goals. 1.  MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS IN TIP TOP CONDITION---There is no other way to present your home!  Make it shine like a model prior to the appraisal appointment.  You want to dazzle the appraiser with the condition and upkeep of your home. 2.  NOW MY APPRAISER FREINDS MIGHT NOT AGREE, but I think it's important to be present for the appraisal.........create a list of ameneties and give it to the appraiser. 3.  YOU'RE ENTITLED TO A COPY----- of the appraisal.  This can be requested from your bank because technically, t... 09/30/2008

Haunting Hayrides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve will once again take place October 24 and 25th.  The Sea Pines Resort offers 2 afternoon hayrides on October 25 followed by Gregg Russell's Halloween Concert in Harbourtown at 7:30 PM.  With our beautiful autumn weather and pleasant evenings, this should be a fun time for the family and just a little different from the usual Halloween events.  For information and reservations, call 842-1979 or visit the Sea Pines website. 09/29/2008

I've been hearing from so many sellers lately who are frustrated  their homes aren't selling.  Well, there's no doubt that our local Hilton Head and Bluffton Real Estate market is not as robust as in year's past but homes are still selling if they're priced correctly.  If you've been experiencing the frustration of no buyers stopping by your home, here are some points to ponder: 1.  Is your home easy to show?  "Lockbox no appointment" is the easiest hone for Realtors to show.  I've had sellers who just didn't get it when it came to showing their homes.  "Can you come tomorrow" just doesn't cut it when a  Realtor has folks from out of town.  You can just guess that you'll never get that phone call tomorrow! 2.  Is your price too high relative to comparable homes in your neighborhood?  Yo... 09/29/2008

Did you ever wonder why a seller would try to sell a home in "as is" condition?  Did it make you uneasy to think about purchasing a home marketed this way?  To put yourself into the mind of the seller, I've listed the top reasons why sellers would choose this route.  MY ADVICE TO YOU?    IF YOU'RE SOLD ON BUYING, THEN HIRE THE BEST INSPECTOR YOU CAN FIND AND PROCEED WITH CAUTION.  Remember that you still have the right to have the property inspected but the sller will make no repairs.  1.  Seller just doesn't wish to make repairs 2.  Sellers can't afford to update or repair the home 3.  Seller inherited the hone and never lived in it 4.  The home is a fixer upper that a buyer would prefer to remodel according to their likes. 5.  Seller knows there's a hidden defect and hopes to get by w... 09/29/2008

With all of the exercise and leisure programs available in Hilton Head Plantation, we really ought to get some type of national accolade for fitness.  Here's an upcoming class that  will interest anyone who can get up early enough to attend--------I'm not sure I fall into that category but perhaps I'l give it my best. EARLY MORNING PILATES CLASS OCTOBER 2 THROUGH NOVEMBER 20 7:00 AM HELD AT THE PLANTATION HOUSE COST:  $40 PER PERSON A minimum of 10 people are required to get this class started.  For more information, contact Keriann@ 681-8090.  FOR MORE HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD EXPERT. I always welcome your inquires, questions and referrals. 09/28/2008

  There's no doubt that we're in a slower market here in the Hilton Head and Bluffton, SC area.  Still homes that are priced correctly are selling!  You might ask------What would it take to make mine sell?  You "need" to present your home in the best price and value in your neighborhood and there is NO ROOM for adventursome pricing today.  Remember----you're in competition with many VERY MOTIVATED  sellers!  Here are some helpful tips! Tune in to your creativity---Offer incentives such as Pre Paid POA or Regmie Fees that would be attractive to buyers. Consider hiring a Home Stager or utilize a Decorator to optimize how your home shows. Get the best photographs--There's a world of difference in quality of photos, lighting, etc.  Just using a wide angle lens makes for much more attractive... 09/26/2008

THE HALLOWEEN PET PARADE IS ONE EVENT THAT I WON'T MISS!  Not ever.......This annual event in Hilton Head Plantation is held each year from 4 to 5 PM at The Plantation House.  It's a real hoot to watch the pets and their owners parade around in the parking lot.  Sure to be a lot of fun for the kids too!  I've never taken my own pets simply because they don't behave all that well in group settings.  Guess I haven't been successful in their manners training.  You'l really don't want to miss this event....It's a lot of good fun! FOR ALL OF YOUR HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE INQUIRES, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE.  I welcome your inquiries, questions and refferals anytime.  09/25/2008

Goodness, I would prefer to write about other subjects but one thing's for sure in this economy, there are many homeowners that are facing a crisis right now.  But there are steps you can take to minimize the situation and arrive at a resolution with your bank.  If you're truly serious about seeking help, here are some tips for you to follow:   1.  CALL THE BANK!  This is vital and it's been proven that many homewoners forego this very basic step in protecting their homes. 2.  DON'T IGNORE YOUR SITUATION!  Sure, it's probably easier to not open the mail but this won't change what you are facing. 3.  IF YOU KNOW YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE, notify your banker immediately.  With all of the foreclousres that banks are facing, believe me when I say they would rather avoid the process if possibl... 09/25/2008

It's Fall in Hilton Head Plantation and probably my favorite time of the year---the weather is superb with cool breezes and clear skies.  Our neighbors have created such a picturesque fall garden that I decided to share with you.  While I was out and about riding my bike, I snapped a few photos to share here.  I hope you enjoy them.  If you are interested in learning more about Hilton Head Plantation, please contact me or visit my website for more information. 09/24/2008

Looks like there will be a lot of great fun opportunities for Indigo Run's children as the Plantation gears up for a busy fall season.  It's nice to see the Plantation actively planning events for the kiddos.  OCTOBER 31--The Annual Halloween Party will be held at Indigo Hall from 4:30 to 6:30 PM.  Hot Dogs, S'mores and treats will be served. NOVEMBER 22--Kid's PJ and Movie Night--Bring your pillow and PJ's and enjoy a family movie--Geared to ages 5-11. December 7--The annual Christmas Party will be at Indigo Hall.  Santa will be on hand with games, cookies and presents for children of all ages. January 17---Teen Movie Night will be from 8:00 to 10:30 PM.  A teen appropriate movie will be shown plus there will be pizza, popcorn and sode--Geared to ages 12-17. FOR REAL ESTATE INFORMATIO... 09/24/2008

Several months ago I signed on to taking a Yoga class each week at Hilton Head Plantation.  I had been ill for awhile and desperately needed to get back in shape, gain my strength and flexibility back.  Yoga has made a huge difference in my well-being.  I simply cannot believe how good I feel after practicing this ancient art.  Susan Dorsey is a fabulous instructor who holds 2 classes each week at the Plantation House.  The advanced class meets Mondays at 6 PM and the Beginner Class is at 7 PM.  My motive for writing this blog?  Simply I want MORE HILTON HEAD PLANTATION RESIDENTS TO JOIN THE YOGA MOVEMENT.  It would be wonderful if we could get another class scheduled so we could have 2 yoga events each week.  For information about exercise classes in the Plantation, call 843-681-8090. ... 09/23/2008

Yesterday's Island Packet Newspaper included an insert that detailed Earthquake  Preparation Information----one of the suggestions is that South Carolina Residents consider putting a rider on their insurance policies to include Earthquake  Insurance.  Now I have to admit that I had not considered this although I did know that much of the south can experience Earthquakes.  Happening rarely, the last earthquake occurred in 1886 around the Charleston Area.  Hilton Head and Bluffton have never had an earthquake .  Actually, according to the insert, the Charleston area has the highest probability of an incident.  Considering this information, perhaps we should be talking with our insurance agents to consider this option?  Most people don't purchase earthquake insurance because they consider ... 09/22/2008

Well, I nicely suggested that dear husband might want to attend this class (due to his last two speeding tickets) but he demurred and said he doesn't need it.  I'm not so sure about that.  I'll keep trying to convince him (plus it wouldn't hurt our insurance rates.) The AARP Driver Safety Class will once again be held at Hilton Head Plantation on October 1 and 2.  Hours are from 11AM to 3 PM.  Whew, you could learn a lot in 2 days, I guess.  I guess the main advantage is to refresh driver safety and get a discount on our insurance rates. Cost is $10 per person and reservations can be made by calling 843-681-8090.  09/22/2008

Okay, I'm probably a thrift and yard sale junkie--I admit it!  But seriously, don't miss Hilton Head Plantation's  annual Trash and Treasure Sale that will be held October 5 from 12 noon to 3pm at The Plantation House. If you're interested in selling some of your no longer needed treasures, tables are available  starting at $10.  What a great way to clean out the garage and kids toys. Last year I dragged hubby  who was delighted when he found a neighbor selling a lot of his aviation related items.  I came home with toys for the grandkids and  the prices were super low.  If you go you'll enjoy the  refreshements, entertainment , plus it's  a great opportunity to meet some of your neighbors so circle October 5th on your calendar.  FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD PLANTATION REAL ESTATE, ... 09/22/2008

The rare appearance of  a Pileated Woodpecker is what I awakened to this morning at my Hilton Head Plantation home.  Infrequently over the years, I've been able to grasp a glimpse of these very large woodpeckers that measure at least 18 inches in length.  Just think-----18 inches--that's a pretty darn big bird.  Pileated Woodpeckers are  very shy and elusive so it's really a treat to even be able to see one. Wikipedia tells us that the Pileated family of Woodpeckers eat a variety of insects including carpenter ants (that's good) beetles, ants and some fruits.  The best habitat for Woodpeckers is dead trees so before you get carried away to take down that long gone tree in your backyard, maybe you should consider leaving it there as a source of food.  That is provided the tree is not a s... 09/20/2008

If "EVER" there was a year where your vote is vital,  consider it this year's election.  With all of the economic turmoil in our great country, I sure hope  everyone  gets out and votes for the candidate of their choice.  The League of Women's Voters of Hilton Head will hold a registration drive on September 27 at the Hilton Head Library from 9 AM to 1PM.  If you are new to the County and haven't registered as yet,  just show up at the library with a valid ID, a current utility bill, paycheck or other government document that identifies your local address.  Please don't take the position that your vote doesn't count because it truly does!   09/19/2008

If anyone has ever had the opportunity to visit our local Boys and Girls Club on Hilton Head Island, they will know how fortunate our community is to have such a tremendous asset for our children.  But as we know, running an operation like this requires yearly donations so please consider turning out this year for the 2nd Annual Pedal 4 Kids, a non-competitive bicyling event for all ages and ability levels. If you participate, you can choose from a 5, 10 or 25 mile route along our parks and pathways.  The event starts at the Hilton Head High School.  Registration is required .  Contact officials @ 843-689-5565 or visit their website:  www.bgchhi.org   Hope to see you there! 09/18/2008

 ...when it comes to how we spend our vacations we are totally different.    My sister is on vacation right now - in beautiful Cape Cod. This is her itinerary for her visit (one week): trolley tour around town harbor tour - depending on the weather -  maybe take in the zooquariam. cape cod potato chip factory (fun!!) lunch on a sightseeing train.    (this sounds cool!) whale watch side trip to Boston harbor again glass blowing museum beach - maybe miniature golf      I just got back from beautiful Hilton Head Island. This was my itinerary for my visit (one week): relax on the beach                                   THINGS YOU COULD DO ON THE ISLAND visit a lighthouse take a dolphin watch cruise sunset dinner cruise trail ride at Lawson Stables play golf take the ferry to Dafauskie Islan... 09/16/2008