A recent article in the Island Packet  convinced me that a  great family activity during a visit to Hilton Head might be catching some Blue Crabs.  Now I'm not saying you HAVE to eat them----you could catch them and provide a nature experience for the kids.  Then let them go and you'll forever be happy you taught the kids to catch and release! Just how easy is it to catch these critters?  They say that anyone with a ball of line tied to a chicken neck can catch a crab.  Sounds easy to me!  Add a long handled net and voila, you'll have a family event that costs next to nothing and the kids should really enjoy the experience.  Once the crab finds the chicken pieces, they grab on with their claws---then you slowly pull in your line and scoop up the crabs with your net.  You know the best ... 06/22/2008

There is good and bad news on the unemployment rate in South Carolina.  First the bad-----Rising gas and food prices are affecting more residents thus sending the unemployment rate in South Carolina to it's highest rate in 2 years.  You might then wonder where there could possibly be any good news?  Ah yes, there is!  Beaufort County posted the lowest unemployment rate in the state, coming in at 4.4 %.   Visit the official Beaufort County website for more area information. PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HILTON HEAD AND BLUFFTON REAL ESTATE. 06/22/2008

I consider it encouraging  news that Beaufort County recently hosted an event for county planners, residents and environmental specialists to brainstorm ways to move forward with planning for sustainable energy.  Although it will take years to get many of these ideas into practice, it is comforting to know that our County is pointed in the right direction.  The recent discussion was hosted by Terry Logan, a retired professor of environmental science at Ohio State University.  Listed are some of the ideas that were discussed: EXPAND MASS TRANSIT WITH NUMEROUS STOPS SO PEOPLE WOULD USE THE SYSTEM USE HYBRIDS OR EQUIVALENT FOR COUNTY OPERATED VEHCLES OFFER TAX BREAKS TO RESIDENTS WITH ENERGY EFFICIENT CARS AND APPLICANCES USE VIDEO CONFERENCING IN AN ATTEMPT TO REDUCE TRAVEL EXPENSES EXPAN... 06/22/2008

As many of the locals know, our beach rules are a little more stringent as well as enforced during the summer when our tourists arrive.  And that's a necessary evil!  Just imagine if everyone enjoyed the beaches with no regard for the environment as well as the enjoyment of others.  So here's the nitty gritty of how we all need to behave this summer---Trust me, failure to adjere to these reasonable rules will bring you a little visit from the Sheriff's Deputies.   The following items are prohibited on Hilton Head Island Beaches:  Alcoholic liquor, beer, wine Glass (bottles, containers, etc.) Littering Indecent exposure (nudity) Disorderly conduct Disturbing the peace Unauthorized vehicles Fires and Fireworks Shark Fishing Removal, harming , or harassment of any live beach fauna (sea tur... 06/19/2008

On a first visit to Hilton Head, most visitors are unaware that we have a small town government and population of over 35,000 permanent residents here enjoying a lifestyle and environment like no other. As a realtor, I'm often asked by potential clients "What's it like to live in here?"  I've started this blog to share my passion for the quality of life here and to encourage those who are considering a move South to understand what it's like to call Hilton Head Island home. I can honestly tell you that after living here for over 13 years, I am still in awe of the natural beauty and wildlife we see everyday, the climate, and the diversity of our citizens. Imagine being able to enjoy outdoor activities year round with "Carolina Blue" skies and spectacular sunsets over the ocean. Imagine w... 06/19/2008

So you thought we didn't have recycling opportunities on the island?  If you're visiting with us this summer, I hope you'll pause for a moment and think about the trash you are generating.  Recycling is available at the town transfer area located at 26 Summit Road by the general aviation area of the airport.  If everyone pitches in and gets really serious about the trash we generate, what a huge difference it will make.  For information about recying,  phone 681-3731 anytime between 7AM and 7 PM.  Listed below is what can be dropped off at the Convenience Center.    Bagged household garbage Bulky items:  furniture, toys, and bulky household items Clear glass, brown glass and green glass Aluminum and steel cans Plastic # 1 & 2 (sodas, water bottles, milk jugs, detergent bottles, etc. New... 06/19/2008

Summer in the Lowcountry and Hilton Head Island, SC is finally here.  The buzz of traffic traveling our main highway 278 is a sure sign the kids are out of school and family vacation time has come once again.  Our summer season brings people to our beaches from all over the country.  Restaurants are busy, grocery stores stock products daily and our local Wal-Mart sells volumes of beach chairs, towels, sun tan lotion, and "beach toys".  YES, summer is a great time to enjoy family vacations in this "resort" community. Although it's sometimes frustrating finding products in the stores and eating out without waiting for a table, we all realize that our Island is a wonderful spot to unwind, relax and create a treasure box of memories.  How lucky we are to live, work and enjoy this paradise. ... 06/17/2008

STORM CATGORIES FOR HURRICANE SEASON PLEASE USE THIS GUIDE TO DECIDE WHEN YOU WILL EVACUATE IF A MAJOR STORM HEADS OUT WAY.  CATEGORY 1   74-95 MPH WINDS WITH A STORM SURGE OF 4-5 FEET CATEGORY 2  96-110 MPH WINDS WITH A STORM SURGE OF 6-8 FEET CATEGORY 3  111-130 MPH WINDS WITH A STORM SURGE OF 9-12 FEET CATEGORY 4   131-155 MPH WITH A STORM SURGE OF 13-18 FEET CATEGORY 5 IN EXCESS OF 155 MPH.  Please visit my website for Hilton Head and Bluffton, SC real estate.  06/15/2008

While I hope we don't have to give any serious thought to hurricane season this year, I've taken the liberty of listing below the major Weather Websites that will be very helpful if bad weather hits our area.  As I said in a previous blog, Hilton Head hasn't experienced a major hurricane since 1893 but that doesn't mean that we might not have some serious weather hit our area sometime this summer or fall.  If you need quick and current information visit any of the sites below.  www.co.beaufort.C.US/Emerg_mgt/ www.nhc.noaa.gov www.wtoc.com www.wsav.com www.thecoastalsource.com BEAUFORT COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HURRICANE HOT LINE:  1-800-963-5023 For information about Hilton Head and Bluffton, SC real estate, please visit my website.  I specialize in Hilton Head and Bluffton, SC real e... 06/15/2008

I have good  and bad news  today.  First, the good news is that we haven't had a major hurricane in the Lowcountry since 1893.  Not bad,  if I may say so.  Actually, Hilton Head has always been geographically  well -protected  from experiencing hurricanes.  Well, the bad news?  Yes, we have to acknowledge that we DO have hurricane season here in the Lowcountry.  It would be easy to become complacent with those types of statistics but that really isn't a good idea.  Below are suggestions you can take to adequately prepare. PREPARE AN EVACUATION PLAN REVIEW YOUR HOME INSURANCE FOR YOUR HOME AND CONTENTS PHOTOGRAPH OR VIDEOTAPE THE CONTENTS MAKE COPIES OF FAMILY AND BUSINESS RECORDS CHECK BATTERY-OPERATED EQUIPMENT---HAVE A BATTERY OPERATED RADIO ON HAND KEEP YOUR CAR FUELED STORE DRINKING... 06/15/2008

Okay, do you currently own an investment property on Hilton Head Island?  Or perhaps you are contemplating the purchase of your dream property here on the island?  With the current economic environment in this country, I bet you may have some valid concerns about ways to maximize the return on your rentals.  Well, I did too and that's why I've written this blog in an attempt to help others with the same issues. About 2 years ago, I realized I needed another method to fill up the rentals on one of my  investment properties.  Sure, I was using a local rental agent and STILL CONTINUE to use them.  I wouldn't do it any other way but I realized there must be a better way.  So I started doing some research and found a fabulous book called HOW TO RENT VACATION PROPERTIES BY OWNER, written by a... 06/15/2008

I want to share with you my photos from a recent visit to one of my favorite thrift stores on Hilton Head Island..........namely The Litter Box, operated by tireless volunteers with all proceeds being donated to the Hilton Head Humane Society.  Recently they did a huge facelift at the store plus expanded their square footage to accomodate a  lot more furniture and home accessories.  Located at 46 Wild Horse Road, just off of 278,  the location is convenient if you are a visitor to the island. For hours of operation, just phone 843-683-0545 and one of the friendly volunteers will help you. If you're visiting the island this summer, take a few moments and stop by--You never know what surprise will await you!  06/13/2008

Hilton Head Island, a name synonymous with luxury and high class, is not just another resort location, however it is an area filled with a rich history. For decades Hilton Head has become increasingly popular among people interested in a permanent residence or in luxury vacations.  Hilton Head real estate enjoys a high appreciation rate which attracts many potential home buyers. Carolina Realty Group offers several listings in luxurious communities like Sea Pines Plantation and Wexford Plantation. With featured listings starting in the 300’s, Carolina Realty Group is the #1 source for Hilton Head Real Estate. 06/13/2008

THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL VICTORIA SQUARE HOME!  IT'S BETTER!!!!!!!!!!! Owners have priced this beauty to move quickly-----this is one of the newest homes in Victoria Square and also one of the largest.  There are very few Dorchester Models that were built in Victoria Square and what is special is the area that will allow an elevator to be installed, if desired.  Additional ameneties include Granite, hardwood, porcelain tile, a private screened porch leading from the Master Suite. On the lower level is a mother-in-law suite, office or 4th bedroom--your choice as to usage.  The rear patio has been constructed of Savannah brick and has a very private wooded view.  Victoria Square is a private gated Charleston themed home with community pool and RV/Boat storage (definitely a plus!)  Owner i... 06/10/2008

iF YOU'RE VISITING HILTON HEAD THIS SUMMER WITH THE KIDDOS, don't miss a visit to The Sandbox, a hands-on interactive children's museum located at the south end of the island.  While only a few years old, The Sandbox has become a favorite place for residents and visitors to spend quality time with their children in a hands on, educational play environment.  The museum is located at 18A Pope Avenue.  Hours of operation are Monday through Saunday from 10AM to 5PM.  Phone 843-842-7645 for more information. VISIT MY WEBSITE for Hilton Head and Bluffton, SC  real estate information.  06/02/2008

Perhaps a great way to spend a rainy summer day on Hilton Head would be to take the kids to the Coastal Discovery Museum located on the island.  They have a really interesting program every Tuesday and Thursday called TURTLE TALK AND WALKS.  It's a great way to introduce your family to the threatened Loggerhead Sea Turtle that comes to our island each way for nesting season.  This program takes place each Tuesday at 10AM and Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 8 PM starting June 3 and running through August 28.  Information:  843-689-6767  Ext. 223.  For all of your Hilton Head and Bluffton Real Estate, please visit my website. 06/02/2008

Attention Hilton Head Visitors and Residents-----It's time to turn off those lights at night if you live near the beach.  Each year the threatened Loggerhead Sea Turtle will emerge from the ocean and lay eggs at the beach.  When those eggs hatch, the little ones need to be heading towards the ocean waters, not your home!  So, make sure you keep those lights off at night until the season is finished.  And remember if you are walking at the beach, you may see nests that have been marked by our beach volunteers.  Steer clear of these areas.  The Loggerhead Turtle is an endangered species that MUST be protected.  06/02/2008

TRANSFER FEES: REALTOR PERSPECTIVEIt seems there are several new fees cropping up (just like taxes), that affect the value of your real estate. You may not notice them until you sell, but they could lessen the value of the house you live in. The following explains why.We have always had deed recording fees, one type of transfer fee.While most of these monies go to the state, some go to the county. Many people are familiar with the Town of Hilton Head Island's transfer fee, which remains on the island. It's hard to guess how much the former adds to the value of your property, but it's easy to drive around the area, see the open spaces the Town has purchased, and realize the value added to all properties by our local transfer fee.A third type of fee has recently been imposed by more and m... 05/28/2008

RECENTLY INDIGO RUN PLANTATION WAS NAMED ONE OF THE 10 BEST BABY BOOMER COMMUNITIES IN THE NATION.  It also has the honor of being the youngest community on the island . A recent  look at the year to date Real Estate Statistics indicates a community with a healthy List Price to Closed Price (95.58%) and  an average days on the market of only 93 days.  There were 44 new listings with 10 pendings and 10 closed during this period.  With almost $8 Million in closed sales, you can see buyers have a strong interest for Indigo Run Properties.  For more information about Indigo Run, please visit my website where you can search all MLS listings for the Hilton Head and Bluffton Real Estate market.  Statistical info derived from Hilton Head MLS.   Area New Avg LP Pending Avg LP Closed Avg CP Total... 05/28/2008

I was happy to hear the Farmer's Market would be back in full swing at the Shelter Cove Mall again this year.  It was first introduced 2 years ago and slowly has grown to be a real asset to our community.  Everyone can savor the freshest fruits and vegetables that are picked early in the day and brought to the center hall of the mall for sale.  I visited recently and found some of my very favorite fruits, namely blueberries and strawberries.  When they are in season here locally, there is nothing better!   We should soon be seeing sweet corn and local tomatoes also.  Visit the mall each Thursday from 8AM to 1PM for the freshest array of local produce.  The Farmer's Market will conclude on August 28th.  05/26/2008