Herman and Davis Properties

Author: monica

  • The 5 Best Things About Waterfront Living on Hilton Head

    The 5 Best Things About Waterfront Living on Hilton Head

    Property on the water is a hot commodity here on Hilton Head, and it’s no wonder. Blessed with long stretches of gorgeous oceanfront—not to mention scenic sounds and creeks—the island truly is the perfect place to enjoy the waterfront lifestyle. While some residents have their own private homes on the beach, others are content just to live near some of the most beautiful coastline in the world.

    Dreaming of waterfront living on Hilton Head? Wondering if the lifestyle is worth the hype—and whether it’s right for you? If so, take a moment to consider the top five benefits of buying a home near the water here on the island…

     

    1) The variety of beaches

    One of the best things about living in a waterfront community is the easy access to beaches. And when it comes to Hilton Head, there’s no shortage of options. From the always lively Coligny Beach to the truly serene Burkes Beach, the island offers a little bit of something for every lover of sand and sun. If you’re thinking of purchasing a place on or near the ocean, think about what type of beach appeals most to you. Remember that many of Hilton Head’s gated communities contain private stretches of sand, and each one has its own distinct character.

     

    2) Year-round beachfront walks

    This point is directly connected to the last one, but we feel like we have to call your attention to it anyway. Waterfront living is about far more than swimming and boating. It’s about taking in the scenery. The Atlantic Ocean and the wildlife it nurtures is truly majestic, and living on Hilton Head means you can enjoy it at any time of the year. Thanks to the island’s temperate climate, strolling in comfort on even the coolest days of the year is as easy as throwing on a cardigan or light jacket.

     

    3) There are so many ways to enjoy the water

    Do you love to stay active? If so, you’re bound to be impressed by the sheer number of ways you can enjoy the water on Hilton Head. If kayaking is your thing, there’s a wide variety of places to explore—from the Calibogue Sound (where dolphins roam) to Skull Creek (a wonderful body of water for birdwatching). Other popular activities include (but certainly aren’t limited to) paddleboarding, parasailing, and boating. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find places to rent top-of-the-line equipment around the island.

     

    4) The fantastic fishing spots

    Need another reason to embrace waterfront living? Three words: great fishing spots. On Hilton Head, you’ll find them in abundance. For year-round saltwater fishing, visit the pier on Pickney Island. If you’re interested in catching redfish, Palmetto Dunes Lagoon is a fantastic local go-to. Jarvis Creek Park is a great spot for largemouth bass (just be aware that there’s a catch-and-release program in effect). Whether you’re a seasoned angler or you just like to cast the odd line, you’ll love fishing in the waters of Hilton Head.

     

    5) Oyster season

    Most people who like oysters love them, and these refreshing delicacies are at their best when they’re just out of the water. When they come from Beaufort County, they also have a distinct flavor that’s sweet, salty, and (in a word) incredible. We locals are so fond of them that we hold an annual festival in their honor! While there are many reasons to embrace living near the water in Hilton Head, seafood fans will definitely want to put fresh oysters near the top of their list!

     

    Ready to learn more about waterfront living here on Hilton Head? Get in touch—we’d love to help you discover our communities, and what’s available in the real estate market!

  • 4 Home Buying Contingencies You Should Know About

    4 Home Buying Contingencies You Should Know About

    As real estate agents, we’ve worked with some pretty cautious buyers over the years. If you’re like most people, a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. You’re bound to feel at least a little bit nervous about the possibility that your deal will go very wrong. If it does, the last thing you want is to be on the hook financially. That’s where home-buying contingencies come in.

    Contingencies are conditions that need to be met—or the transaction you’re involved in will never close. By adding the right ones to your purchase contract, you can make sure that you’re protected if worst comes to worst. Here are the four home-buying contingencies you should know about…

    1) Financing contingency

    Worried that your mortgage financing could fall through after you’ve agreed to purchase a home? It happens. The good news is, adding a financing contingency can help you avoid serious financial consequences if it does. Let’s say you receive mortgage pre-approval and enter into an agreement to buy a property. You still have to go through the underwriting process before you receive your loan—and it’s entirely possible that you’ll hit a snag and be denied along the way. If you have a financing contingency, you can use it to get out of your purchase.

    2) Appraisal contingency

    If you need a mortgage to buy a home, you may want to include an appraisal contingency in your contract. Here’s how it works. Before you can receive a loan, your lender will have the home that you’re planning to buy appraised to determine its fair market value. Put simply, you can’t be approved for a mortgage that equals more than the appraisal amount. So what happens if you and the seller have already agreed to a purchase price that’s above fair market value? Without an appraisal contingency, you may be out of luck. If you have one—you guessed it, you won’t have to go through with the purchase.

    3) Inspection contingency

    Usually, having a qualified inspector give a house or condo the once-over is a wise decision. For added protection, you might also want to make the completion of your home purchase dependent on a successful inspection. If a serious issue turns up during the process, you can back out of the deal—or negotiate with the seller to have them perform the necessary repairs. Buyers who include an inspection contingency will want to use a Due Diligence Addendum. Doing so will give you an agreed-upon number of days to find the answers to any relevant questions before you move forward confidently with their purchase. A knowledgeable real estate agent can explain the specifics.

    4) Home sale contingency

    A home sale contingency allows buyers to get out of a home purchase if they aren’t able to sell the house or condo they’re in now. It’s worth noting that this contingency isn’t used often anymore, especially in hot markets. As a result, many sellers refuse to accept it—and including one in your offer could make it significantly less appealing. The good news? Well-maintained properties on Hilton Head tend to attract plenty of buyers. This means there’s a good chance you’ll be able to sell your home after you sign a purchase contract. Of course, things don’t always turn out that way, so it’s best to talk to your agent before taking this step.

    The bottom line

    Home-buying contingencies offer a certain level of protection for buyers. That said, if you’re making an offer on an in-demand property, including too many of them (or any all) could mean losing out to a buyer who doesn’t. A knowledgeable real estate professional can help by looking closely at your specific circumstances and helping to determine which action to take.

    Have questions about buying a home on Hilton Head? Get in touch—we’ll walk you through the process and give you an idea of what’s available on the market!

  • The Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches on Hilton Head

    The Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches on Hilton Head

    Are you a dog owner who lives on Hilton Head? Perhaps you’re a traveler who’s planning a visit with your canine companion. Either way, one of your favorite things about the island is bound to be the dog-friendly beaches. It’s worth noting that during peak season (between Memorial and Labor Days), pups are only allowed along these waterfront stretches before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. That said, when the scenery is this beautiful, a morning or evening walk is always a great idea!

    If you’re looking for the perfect beach for you and your best friend, check out one of the top five in Hilton Head…

    1) Burkes Beach

    Burkes Beach is one of our favorite places to enjoy some sand and sun on the island. Dog owners are especially fond of this scenic stretch of shoreline, thanks to its canine-friendly policies. Your pooch will love frolicking here, and you’ll love the beautiful Atlantic Ocean views! As a bonus, nearby Chaplain Community Park has its own off-leash area to explore—which can mean even more playtime for active pups.

    2) Coligny Beach

    It’s easy to see why Coligny Beach is so popular. From its attractive boardwalk to its beach-chair seating to its free WiFi, this local hotspot really has it all. It’s also a great place for dogs and the people who adore them. Take your best friend out for some exercise, watch as they enjoy a refreshing dip, then rest together in the shade of the nearby gazeebo.

    3) Alder Lane Beach

    Alder Lane Beach isn’t as busy as many other sections of shoreline on the island, making it a quieter option for local sun-seekers. Your pooch will have plenty of space to get active here, while you’ll enjoy a bit of solitude. Then there’s the convenience factor. At Alder Lane, you’ll find metered parking, restrooms, and even showers for those who want to rinse off after a swim. Access is located off of Forest Beach Drive.

    4) Folly Field Beach

    Not far from the entrance to Folly Field Beach Park, there’s a sandy strip that you’ll love as much as your pup does. A big part of the appeal of this stretch is the wooded area that surrounds it. Between the lush greenery and the residential vibe along Starfish Road (the area’s main point of access), Folly Field Beach has a secluded feel that’s perfect for energetic pooches. Trust us when we say, this gem is worth the trip!

    5) Fish Haul Creek Beach

    Fish Haul Creek Beach is a great place to indulge your dog’s adventurous side. Your furry friend is free to explore off-leash here, and there are plenty of tide pools for them to sniff around. Luckily, the beach is just as enjoyable for dog owners as it is for their pets. Check out the observation deck, take a seat at one of the picnic tables, or try out the binocular machine. Just be sure to enjoy the stunning view of Port Royal Sound while you’re there!

    Interested in discovering all that living on Hilton Head has to offer? Get in touch to learn about some of the great local properties currently on the market!

  • Is Hilton Head Real Estate A Good Investment?

    Is Hilton Head Real Estate A Good Investment?

    We’re all aware that the island is a wonderful place to live, as well as a beautiful vacation spot. What many potential buyers don’t know is that the homes here are also an incredible investment. The right piece of Hilton Head real estate can provide years of personal enjoyment, not to mention some impressive supplementary income to help fund your current lifestyle—and your future retirement!

    If you’re looking for the ideal place to invest in property, here are a few reasons why Hilton Head should be high on your list…

    High demand

    Not all real estate investments are created equal. If you’re looking to maximize your returns, choosing the right location is key. What makes Hilton Head such a great option is the high demand for local vacation rentals. Our little piece of the Lowcountry is extremely popular among those who want to get away for a while, and that’s not going to change.

    Visitors flock to the island for the world-class golf courses, pristine beaches, charming retail and dining options, and thriving art and cultural scene. These attractions set us from vacation hotspots that only cater to families with young children, couples, or retirees. There’s something for everyone here, and many high-net-worth individuals are willing to pay a premium to experience it!

    Impressive property values

    Wondering what will happen when it comes time to resell your investment? You’ll be happy to learn that there’s a whole lot of Hilton Head property changing hands—and sellers are seeing fantastic returns. Recent figures show that average real estate prices are rising, and there are a growing number of successful professionals snapping up local property. We can thank all of the companies that offer work-from-home options for that!

    Hilton Head is also home to a thriving luxury market, which is great news if you’re thinking of investing in high-end property. Last but not least, the new airport expansion will only make the island more attractive to future buyers—no matter their price point.

    Vacation savings

    One of the biggest benefits of renting out a vacation home? You get to choose when you use it. If you feel like hitting the links in the fall, you can. If you’re hoping for some beach time in July, it’s very doable. Owning an investment property on Hilton Head will allow you to create a schedule that works for your family—and save you money in the process!

    Think about it. Paying for a rental every time you need some rest and relaxation adds up quickly. In contrast, investing in a vacation home will allow you to enjoy the island for less. If you ask us, it’s a win-win.

    A place to retire

    Imagine having Hilton Head’s 12 miles of beaches—and the time to explore them—at your disposal. Picture yourself strolling through our charming downtown whenever you feel like it, or enjoying freshly-caught seafood lunches on our local patios. Put simply, we can’t imagine a better place to retire. If you don’t live here fulltime yet, securing an investment property today could help you do so cost-effectively.

    Not sure what the future holds? Buying Hilton Head real estate may still be a very smart move. An increase in your property’s value, even if it happens slowly over time, could help you fund a comfortable retirement!

    Real estate can be a very lucrative investment, especially when you purchase it in an in-demand location like Hilton Head. While you may be wary of taking the first step, a knowledgeable local agent can help you minimize the risk—and maximize your return. Are you ready to learn more?

    Preparing to find your ideal investment property on Hilton Head? Let us help you locate the perfect place. Get in touch—we’d love to answer your questions!

  • Tips to Sell Your Home on Hilton Head in 2020

    Tips to Sell Your Home on Hilton Head in 2020

    There’s no better time to get organized than January and February, especially if you have a major life change on the horizon. Selling your home is a great example. The process can be long and complicated—but with some careful planning, it doesn’t have to be. From purging your clutter to getting familiar with the local housing market, the steps you take now can help ensure that the process goes smoothly!

    If you’re putting your home on the market in 2020, here are some tips to prepare for a successful sale…

    1) Streamline your stuff

    Most of us have our fair share of clutter kicking around. Unfortunately, when it comes time to sell a home, figuring out how to deal with all our stuff can be both stressful and time-consuming. If you’re like us, you won’t be able to sort through your belongings overnight!

    Try devoting an hour or two to decluttering each weekend. Tackle one area at a time, separating the items you plan to keep from those you want to donate or toss away. During this time, resist the urge to buy new things unless they’re absolutely essential.

    The good news is, you don’t have to go through the decluttering and home-preparation process on your own. If you need help, there are professionals here on the island who can work with you at every step—get in touch to learn more!

    2) Get a sense of your home’s market value

    One of the best ways to prepare to sell your home is by getting a good sense of its value. You can take a look at the listings out there for similar properties, but the most accurate way to take this step is by asking an agent. Be aware that it’s not just about your home’s age and square footage. Here on the island, factors such as your property’s view, its proximity to the ocean, and (if you’re in a gated community) the amenities you have access to and the fees you pay can all have an impact when it comes time to set a price.

    When you’re ready to find your home’s true value, we can help! You might want to start by hiring a local appraiser—someone who’s uniquely equipped to determine what your property is worth on the Hilton Head market. Next up, we’ll help you take the necessary steps to prepare it so that you can get the best price possible!

    3) Have your HVAC serviced and your roof inspected

    There’s no place on earth where the climate is always perfect, not even here on the island. That’s why it’s so important to keep your heating and cooling system in good shape—especially if you’re planning to sell soon. The same is true of your roof, which is integral to your home’s structure!

    Our advice? If you’re putting your property on the market in 2020, get your HVAC serviced by a professional and have your roof inspected. In our experience, home buyers will ask about these crucial home components. Knowing that they haven’t been neglected is bound to give them peace of mind—and that might help nudge them toward saying “yes” to your property!

    4) Track down the paperwork

    When you’re selling a home, there’s no shortage of little details to take care of. It’s never a bad idea to tackle them early on. Case in point: finding the documents you’re going to need for your sale. Even if you’re nowhere near ready to list, now is the time to start digging through your papers.

    Not sure what you’ll need? It can vary from one deal to the next, but it’s a good idea to round up whatever you can find. From your original sales contract to inspection reports to your home maintenance records, anything that pertains to your property is likely to be useful. Don’t forget about those surveys and elevation certificates!

    5) Work with a local expert

    Whether you’re ready to sell now, two months in the future, or later in the year, finding the right Hilton Head agent is essential. Start with some basic research. Ask around, do some googling, and peruse social media.

    When you find a professional or team that looks promising, set up an interview—and prepare a few questions to ask. From their experience working in Hilton Head to their preferred marketing strategies to the fees they charge, learn as much as you can about the agent you’re considering. Trust us: when the time comes to put your home on the market, you’ll be glad you did your homework!

    Planning to sell your home on Hilton Head in 2020? Let us help you find the perfect place. Get in touch—we’d love to answer your questions.

  • 5 Tips For Finding Your Dream Home in 2020

    5 Tips For Finding Your Dream Home in 2020

    Are you ready to find your ideal living space? Many buyers begin their search by perusing online listings. While there’s nothing wrong with starting things off casually, there are a few more steps you’ll want to take once you’re ready to get serious about the home hunt. There’s no better time to do that than in January and February of a new year!

    From careful budgeting to identifying your must-have features, here are five tips for finding the perfect Hilton Head property in 2020…

    1) Know what you can afford

    Take it from us: one of the biggest mistakes buyers make is believing they have more to spend on a home than they actually do. Falling into this trap is all too easy. Fortunately, it’s also avoidable. Start by getting familiar with average prices for properties within your communities of interest.

    Next up, figure out how these numbers match up with your budget. That means looking at your annual household income and tallying up your ongoing expenses to figure out how much you can spend. You’ll also need to factor in all closing costs—from the property appraisal you’ll need to pay for to your upcoming legal fees. This step can be daunting, but a Hilton Head real estate expert can help ensure that your budget is realistic based on current housing prices.

    2) Save for that down payment

    If you don’t quite have enough for your home down payment, make 2020 the year you save up for what you need. Conventional wisdom suggests that 20 percent of your purchase price is ideal—plus you won’t have to pay private mortgage insurance if you put down this amount. Having said that, you have options, and the right financial expert can help you explore them.

    Once you know how much you need (based on your preferred home type and community), set a reasonable monthly savings goal. Cut down on your spending if need be, and consider setting up an automatic savings plan so you don’t have to think about setting the money aside yourself.

    3) Get to know the lending landscape

    Before you apply for a mortgage, get prepared by familiarizing yourself with the financing landscape. Exploring your options is a great way to get ready for that major purchase you’re planning to make this year. While your bank offers several potential advantages, they can only provide you with their financial products and services. In contrast, a mortgage broker can shop around on your behalf.

    You should also make sure you understand the benefits of obtaining pre-approval. By taking this crucial step before you jump into the home hunt, you can assure sellers that you’re a serious buyer.

    Remember: the lender that’s right for you will depend on your circumstances, which is why it pays to do your homework!

    4) Keep your eye on the prize

    We can’t over stress the importance of getting pre-approval. That said, you should know that it’s not the same as being fully approved for a mortgage! A lot can happen between the moment you get your pre-approval letter and closing day—and some changes could have an impact on whether your deal closes at all.

    To help ensure that the purchase process goes smoothly, try to maintain your financial situation after you’ve been pre-approved. That means no major purchases and no new lines of credit. Don’t forget to check in with your lender leading up to closing day, just in case they require any additional paperwork.

    5) Find a qualified agent

    If you’re planning to buy a home in 2020, finding the right guide is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Your agent will be with you from the beginning of your search right up until the end—so make sure the professional you choose is the best person for the job!

    While an impressive track record is crucial, so is a complete knowledge of Hilton Head, its communities, and the local market. To get started off on the right foot, get in touch to learn more about our approach to buying a home.

    Ready to find your ideal home on Hilton Head? Let us help you find the perfect place. Get in touch—we’d love to answer your questions!

  • Hilton Head Vs. Charleston: Where Should Your Next Home Be?

    Hilton Head Vs. Charleston: Where Should Your Next Home Be?

    There’s no denying that South Carolina is a wonderful state. Whether you’re looking for a heavenly vacation spot or the perfect place to settle down, there’s no shortage of great options here. Two of the most in-demand areas are Hilton Head and Charleston. As islanders, we admit that we may be a little bit biased. After all, there’s no place we’d rather live than in our Lowcountry paradise. That said, we know that Charleston has a lot to offer—which is why we’re providing a side-by-side comparison of these two South Carolina hotspots.

    If you’re wondering which place is better for your family—Hilton Head or Charleston—here’s what you should know…

     

    The basics

    Charleston

    Population: 131, 204

    Density: 1,159 people per square mile

    Median household income: $61,367

     

    Hilton Head

    Population: 39,666

    Density: 959 people per square mile

    Median household income: $72,569

    The breakdown

    Hilton Head has fewer people and a lower population density than Charleston, making it a great place to spread out, relax, and put down roots. Residents of both places enjoy a relatively high household income, though professionals on the island tend to bring in more money annually.

    Real estate

    Hilton Head

    Median home value: $454,300

    Median listing price: $455,000

     

    Charleston

    Median home value: $286,200

    Median listing price: $315,000

     

    The breakdown

    Home values and listing prices are typically higher in Hilton Head than they are in Charleston. While there’s good value to be found in both places, there are some key differences between the two.

    Hilton Head is home to an impressive luxury market, which boasts a large number of high-end estates. While you’ll find multi-million-dollar mansions here, there are also plenty of more modest options available—including a variety of stylish condos and villas on the water. Price points vary on the island, but there’s plenty of value in the market. And because properties are in demand, homeowners tend to see high returns when they sell.

    If you’re looking for newly-built homes, there’s a wide array of them in the subdivisions of Charleston. You’ll also find some attractive historic properties, ranging in style from Georgian to Queen Anne and beyond. For ambitious buyers, there are some major opportunities to restore homes built in the 1800s (of course, this type of commitment isn’t for everybody). Unfortunately, one of the big drawbacks of living in Charleston is traffic congestion.

     

    Golf, tennis, and other attractions

    Hilton Head

    • Harbour Town Golf Links

    • Palmetto Dunes Tennis Club

    • Hilton Head Island Bike Trails

    • Coastal Discovery Museum

    • Pickney Island National Wildlife Refuge

    • Sea Pines Forest Preserve

     

    Charleston

    • The Ocean Course (Kiawah Island)

    • Links Course (Wild Dunes)

    • Charleston Tennis Center

    • Maybank Tennis Center

    • The Aiken-Rhett House Museum

    • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

     

    The Breakdown

    Hilton Head is home to some of the best golf and tennis facilities in the country. Favorites include Harbour Town Golf Links (an award-winning course that hosts the RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour) and Palmetto Dunes Tennis Club (which is designated number 2 on the planet for instruction and events). The island is also home to pristine nature preserves, historical and cultural attractions, and a number of charming restaurant and shopping districts.

    Charleston doesn’t host an event like the RBC Heritage (South Carolina’s only PGA tour event), but it has some impressive courses all the same. The top choice for golfers is the Ocean Course on Kiawah Island. For those who prefer rackets to clubs, the Charleston Tennis Centre is the way to go. You’ll also find several museums that speak to the area’s rich history, and a lively downtown (just beware of common city problems like insufficient parking and noise).

     

    Beaches

    Hilton Head and Charleston are both known for their beautiful beaches. The key to finding the sandy stretch that’s perfect for you is knowing what each area has to offer.

    Folly, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms are some of the top beaches in Charleston. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or try out some water sports, any one of these options will serve you well. Potential downsides include the crowds, as well as humidity (which tends to collect in this part of South Carolina).

    Hilton Head is also blessed with its fair share of sandy coastline. The variety on the island is truly incredible—from vibrant Coligny Beach to peaceful Burkes Beach. Whether you’re looking for a private (community members only) spot or something a bit more lively, you’ll find it here. The island also boasts extensive bike trails, and they make getting to and from some of Hilton Head’s best beaches a breeze!

     

    Making a decision

    At the end of the day, Hilton Head and Charleston are both great places to live. It really comes down to preference. While Charleston has a city feel, Hilton Head is known for its friendly village vibe. Of course, we’re partial to the island—where every day feels like a vacation.

    If you’re ready to learn more about what Hilton Head has to offer (and some of the gorgeous properties on the market here) don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to show you around!

     

    Thinking about making a move to Hilton Head? Let us help you decide whether the area is right for you. Get in touch—we’d love to answer your questions.

  • 5 Tips for Sellers in a Multiple-Offer Situation

    5 Tips for Sellers in a Multiple-Offer Situation

    When homes go up for sale in a hot market like Hilton Head, buyers sit up and take notice. In some cases, these in-demand properties can even receive multiple offers—which is great news for the sellers involved. It means more options, better leverage when negotiating, and (hopefully) a very impressive sale price. That said, these situations aren’t always straightforward. As a seller, you may be unsure of how to get the most out of the interest you’re seeing in your home.

    If you’re lucky enough to receive multiple offers, here are a few tips for reaching an outcome you’ll be more than happy with…

    1) Know your options

    No doubt about it: having buyers compete for your home puts you in a very good position. It means there are several potential paths you can take, as opposed to just one. You can accept an offer right off the bat, negotiate with one home hunter and reject the others, or ask all of the buyers involved to make their best (and final) bids.

    At the same time, we know these situations can be tricky. The goal is to get the best price possible, without turning bidders off and having them look elsewhere. Luckily, an experienced agent can help. We’ve been through the process many times, and we know how to advise you based on your circumstances!

    2) Remember: it’s not all about money

    It’s all too easy to reduce every offer to dollars and cents. Of course, money will probably be your biggest motivation—but that doesn’t mean the highest bid is always the best one. The truth is, there are times when two offers are close, but the slightly lower one will lead to a better outcome.

    Let’s say a buyer is willing to pay in cash. Even if their bid isn’t the highest on the table, you may want to accept it if you’re looking for a low-hassle transaction. If they don’t include any contingencies (which allow buyers to back out of a purchase under certain conditions), it could mean fewer obstacles on the road to closing. The point is, there are many elements to an offer, and each one deserves due consideration.

    3) Look at financing

    Good bids look great on paper. But there are times when buyers can’t quite fulfill their promises. Often, it’s because the mortgage they’re expecting to receive fell through. That’s why it pays to look closely at which offers are coming from qualified buyers.

    The good news is, there are ways to determine which home hunters are most likely to make it to the finish line. Mortgage pre-approval, adequate income, good credit, and a sizeable down payment can all be good signs. While your agent may not have access to a buyer’s full financial history, they’ll use what they do have to paint the most complete picture possible.

    4) Consider your home’s value

    Here’s something many sellers don’t know. If an offer is too high, the deal may not close successfully! That’s because lenders rely partly on a home appraisal when they decide how much financing to give a borrower. If your property’s value falls short of an offer you’ve accepted, the buyer will have to make up the difference. Of course, they can’t always do that.

    When you have multiple bids to choose from, it makes sense to do your due diligence. If your agent looks closely at an offer and realizes it might not lead to a successful sale, you have others to fall back on.

    5) Work with a negotiation expert

    Often, home sellers have to undergo a lot of back and forth with a buyer to get the best possible price, terms, and conditions. When there are multiple offers involved, it could mean even more time around the negotiation table. Of course, some sellers find this process stressful—but it doesn’t have to be.

    An agent who understands the market and the purchase process can help you make the most of your offers. That said, there’s more to it than real estate expertise! You also want someone who has that special ability to read situations—and the dedication required to act as your advocate.

    When it comes to multiple-offer scenarios and bidding wars, we’ve been on both sides of the table. We know they can be hard on buyers, but sellers often deal with their fair share of stress, too. Fortunately, with the right strategy, you can turn all of the interest you’re receiving into a major win. All it takes is some guidance and support from the right real estate expert!

    Ready to sell your home on Hilton Head? Get in touch—we’ll walk you through the process and help you find the ideal buyer!

  • Selling Your Home in Late Fall: 5 Reasons to Do It

    Selling Your Home in Late Fall: 5 Reasons to Do It

    If you’re thinking of selling your home, you may be wondering if now is the best time to do it. Many sellers think long and hard about timing, which makes sense. It’s only natural that you’d want to put your property on the market when buyers are out in full force. It’s the reason so many homes are listed in the spring and summer! That said, there are unique benefits that come with selling in late fall or early winter.

    If you’re planning to put your home on the market, here are five reasons you might not want to wait until spring…

    1) Less competition

    At this time of year, inventory tends to be lower than it is during Hilton Head’s hottest selling seasons. That leads many people to believe it isn’t a good time to put a home on the market. Not so! While there may not be as many home hunters out there as you would see in the spring, there are also fewer properties for them to choose from. The truth is, when there are “For Sale” signs everywhere, buyers sometimes overlook some true gems. But when the market is quieter, your home can truly stand out!

    2) It’s an election year

    With all the media coverage, it would be hard to forget that this is an election year. What many people don’t know is that politics can have a major impact on the real estate market. That’s because buyers (especially those looking for luxury homes) often put off making major purchases in politically uncertain times. In other words: if your home is priced in the upper tier, you may have better success selling it now than you would later on!

    3) Better photos

    Here on Hilton Head, we’re blessed with temperate weather year-round. That said, some things do change with the seasons. While our yards often look great in the fall, they may not fare as well in January (the coldest month, on average) or February. That’s worth considering if you’re taking listing photos. First impressions are important, and home hunters will judge your property in part by what it looks like from the outside.

    4) Interest rates are low

    Mortgage rates are low right now, and many buyers are taking advantage of it. Yes, some home hunters will hold off on making a purchase until things have settled down on the political front. But with interest rates the lowest they’ve been in almost three years, more than a few savvy buyers are ready to take the plunge now. If you perform the right preparations, your home could capture their attention—and their hearts!

    5) There’s no time like the present

    If we know one thing, it’s that things can change quickly. A personal or family issue could arise, requiring all of your attention. An election could change the political and economic landscape completely. Our point is that there’s no way to accurately predict what will happen six months or a year from now. All we can do is make the best possible decisions based on the information we have today. Keep that in mind if you’re thinking of selling your home—and feeling unsure about when to make your move.

    Have questions about selling a home on Hilton Head? Get in touch. We’ll walk you through the selling process and give you an idea of what to expect!

  • 5 Home Upgrades to Make Before Selling Your Home

    5 Home Upgrades to Make Before Selling Your Home

    Ready to put your home on the market? Time and again, we get asked the same question. Should I make any improvements before I try to sell? The answer is, it depends. Major renovations don’t always pay off, but the right upgrades can mean a quicker, smoother, and more profitable sale.

    If you’re preparing to sell your home, here are five updates you may want to consider making first…

    1) Repaint

    It’s one of the least expensive ways to refresh the look and feel of your home. For the low cost of a can of paint, you can completely transform your living space before you stage, list, and show it to potential buyers! We suggest choosing a warm, neutral shade (pale gray-blue, beige with gold undertones, and shades of white all work well). The idea is to enhance the rooms in your home—without overpowering the staging efforts to come.

    2) Boost your curb appeal

    As far as we’re concerned, too many folks underestimate the importance of curb appeal. Whether you’re selling a luxury mansion or a cute little vacation home, first impressions matter. For starters, give some love to your landscaping. Your lawn, your shrubs, your flowers—whatever plant life surrounds you home, make sure it’s healthy and well-maintained. Next, pay attention to your home’s exterior. Is there any old or rotting wood in need of repair? Could it use a fresh coat of paint? If so, it’s best to take care of these issues before you list.

    3) Ditch the carpeting and laminate flooring

    Take it from us: in the eyes of buyers, there’s nothing worse than outdated flooring. And having a different type of floor in every room is just as bad! Laminate in the kitchen and carpet in the living room may have been common two decades ago, but today it just doesn’t pass muster. Instead, consider hardwood, which never really goes out of style. Tile is another popular option—especially if you go with luxury vinyl or ceramic.

    4) Say goodbye to granite

    Many sellers are surprised to learn that granite countertops no longer provide the “wow” factor they used to. Once the gold standard, this countertop material seems to have lost some of its sheen. Among Hilton Head buyers, we’re seeing a strong preference for quartz. It’s more durable than marble, and it looks absolutely stunning in most homes. That’s worth considering, if your countertops are looking worse for wear.

    5) Check your plumbing

    Was your home built in the lates 80s or early 90s? If so, you may want to look into whether polybutelene plumbing was installed. These types of systems are prone to failing—which is why they make insurance companies wary. Buyers are just as hesitant, and they’ll often ask sellers to replace them if they’re discovered during an inspection. We suggest being proactive. If your home was constructed during the right time period, have the plumbing looked at!

    Selling a home can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to decide whether to make upgrades first. Fortunately, a real estate expert can help! At Herman & Davis, we have a talented home stager on hand. It’s just one of the many services we provide. We’d love the opportunity to tell you more about how we can prepare your home for the market—and help you command the highest price possible when you sell!

    Have questions about selling a home on Hilton Head? Get in touch. We’ll walk you through the selling process and give you an idea of what to expect!