Herman and Davis Properties

Author: monica

  • 5 Benefits of Working with a Full-Service Real Estate Team

    5 Benefits of Working with a Full-Service Real Estate Team

    If you’re ready to buy or sell a home, you may be wondering how to choose an agent. There’s no shortage of real estate professionals out there, and deciding who to work with can be challenging. While there are many factors to consider, we believe that one of the most important (and most frequently overlooked) is whether an agent works as part of a team. No real estate professional is an island—and the talent we surround ourselves with can help us provide the highest possible level of service!

    If you’re looking for the right real estate agent to partner with, here are five reasons to choose someone who works with a full-service team…

    1) A more efficient process

    The truth is, real estate transactions run smoother when there’s a team of professionals working to make them happen. It’s not all about the agents involved—the support staff is also invaluable. As just one example, a great closing and listing coordinator will make the process more efficient by coordinating next steps, preparing crucial documents, and verifying important legal and financial details. Put simply, they help ensure that there are fewer hiccups on the road to getting the deal done!

    2) Better connections

    When it comes to serving clients, relationships are key. The more close professional connections we real estate agents have, the better your experience is going to be. Looking for the ideal buyer for your property? We may already know them. Searching for someone to do minor repairs before you sell? We can help you out. Having a caring and personable team helps us strengthen these relationships. That often includes a licensed personal assistant—someone who’s just as comfortable coordinating with professionals as they are greeting and assisting clients.

    3) Step-by-step guidance

    The more attention an agent can spend walking clients through the buying or selling process, the better. Buyers, in particular, tend to appreciate this type of guidance—especially first-timers. Luckily, a trustworthy team will take some of the pressure off so that their agents can focus on what matters most (the clients). And when it comes to giving home hunters a straightforward, low-stress experience, nothing beats having a dedicated buyer’s agent on staff!

    4) Marketing expertise

    Effective marketing is hard work. Sure, anyone can snap a few photos on their iPhone, jot down some property details, post them online, and call it day. But it takes strategy to do it right—which includes perfect timing. By taking care of campaign details, real estate marketing coordinators ensure that homes receive the exposure they deserve. We can’t tell you how much it helps to have our expert assistants working as part of our extended team.

    5) A one-stop-shop experience

    As you can see, a successful home sale or purchase comes down to more than just a talented agent. When you work with a full-service team, you’ll benefit from the combined skillsets of numerous real estate professionals. You’ll get everything you need—all in one place. So forget about the leg work and get ready for a simple, smooth, and enjoyable transaction. With some of the best in the business working together to serve you, a fantastic outcome is right around the corner!

    Ready to buy or sell a home on Hilton Head? Get in touch to learn how our team can help—and take the first step towards a great real estate outcome. Send us a message to discuss your needs today!

  • 5 Tips for Marketing a Luxury Home for Top Dollar

    5 Tips for Marketing a Luxury Home for Top Dollar

    Are you preparing to put your luxury home on the market? A lot of folks believe the process is the same no matter what type of property they’re selling, but that simply isn’t true. We can tell you from experience, high-end buyers have unique needs, preferences, and motivations. Catering to them is the surest way to get some great offers rolling in!

    If you’re hoping to get the best possible price for your luxury home, here are five things you should do to generate more interest…

    1) Price it right

    If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a million times. Pricing matters—a lot. All too often, sellers with luxury properties underestimate the impact that their asking price can have on the offers they receive. While it’s true that a high-end buyer is more likely to pony up some serious cash for their dream home, that doesn’t mean they’ll pay whatever you ask.

    The good news is, you don’t have to set a price on your own. An agent with luxury selling expertise will consider many factors—like the market, and what high-end buyers have been paying for homes like yours recently—to help you strike the perfect balance!

    2) Prepare it carefully

    Let’s talk presentation. Many home hunters are looking for a bargain—and they’re often willing to put in significant repair and remodeling work to get one. Luxury buyers are less likely to take on that responsibility. Often, what they’re looking for is perfection (or something close).

    Before you put your home on the market, ask an agent with high-end expertise for advice. Whether you need to upgrade your finishes, modernize your appliances, or beautify your landscaping, a luxury real estate professional can help. They can even recommend a stager who specializes in properties like yours!

    3) Tap into the right network

    They say it’s all about who you know. When it comes to selling a home, that’s often true! Once your house, townhome, or villa has been prepared for the market, it’s time to make sure your target buyers know about it. This is where having an agent with high-end market connections can come in very handy.

    Home hunters looking for luxury in desirable locales like Hilton Head often come from all over the world. That’s why we work with Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate—a prestigious global network of brokerages that deals with affluent buyers.

    4) Targeted marketing

    While we’re on the subject of making sure your home is seen by the right people, don’t forget about marketing! Put simply, professional, visually-appealing materials will get more eyes on your property. Your listing needs to stand out, as does any other advertising your agent will do on your behalf.

    Of course, it’s not just the look and feel of your marketing that will attract luxury buyers. To reach them, you need to know where they’ll be looking for real estate. Your agent should be able to target the right websites and publications to help spread the word.

    5) Stellar photography

    We can’t over stress the importance of photography when you’re selling a property—especially a luxury home. Buyers looking at online listings gravitate towards images before anything else, so there’s a lot riding on the photos you use!

    To generate more interest, work with a photographer who has luxury experience. We’re talking about someone who can truly capture the magnificence of your property. From panoramic views of your exterior to indoor shots that call attention to those elegant features and finishes, a qualified professional will know how to make your home shine!

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

     

  • Hiring a Realtor to Sell Your Home? Here Are 5 Questions You Should Ask

    Hiring a Realtor to Sell Your Home? Here Are 5 Questions You Should Ask

    Let’s face it: selling a home isn’t exactly simple. There’s a lot to think about when you’re preparing a property, marketing it, negotiating with buyers, and (finally) closing the deal. That’s where real estate agents come in. Working with an experienced professional can help ensure that the selling process is as smooth, straightforward, and profitable as possible. But how do you know which agent to choose? Interviewing is key, and so is asking the right questions.

    There are many things you’ll want to ask before hiring an agent to sell your home, but here are five of the most important…

    1) How well do you know my neighborhood?

    In real estate, few things matter as much as location. And when it comes to selling, finding buyers who are a perfect match for your community is vital. That’s why it’s so important to work with an agent who knows your area—inside and out. This type of expertise is a must-have here on Hilton Head, where home hunters often come from all over the world. Whether you’re selling in Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, Long Cove, or beyond, look for a professional who has years of experience in your area. They should be able to answer any questions that come up—and highlight your community’s best points throughout the selling process!

    2) How do you price a home?

    It’s one of those things that a lot of sellers don’t understand about real estate, and that’s okay! Setting a price for a home—one that won’t turn buyers off or result in a lower selling price than you deserve—is complicated. It means having detailed knowledge of the market, what properties like yours are selling for, and what will motivate buyers. For this reason, we suggest asking an agent about their pricing structure before agreeing to work with them. If they’re good at what they do, they’ll be able to answer your question in-depth—and in a way that makes sense to you!

    3) How do you plan to market my home?

    When you’re selling property, marketing strategy matters. Of course, agents need some time to work through the details of how they’ll spread the word about your home. That said, they should be able to assess your circumstances and give you a few ideas when you meet with them. From online listings to flyers to virtual tours and beyond, every tactic used to market your living space should be taken with its most-likely buyers in mind. An agent who’s a real pro will start thinking about who they’re going to target—and how they’re going to do it—from your very first meeting.

    4) Can I see sample marketing materials?

    Have you ever seen unprofessional-looking marketing materials before? We have. And trust us, it’s not pretty. Put simply, buyers are turned off by sloppy design, unclear wording, and poor-quality photos. In many cases, they’ll overlook properties that have a ton of potential if they’re not presented in the best possible light. To avoid this outcome, ask to see an agent’s past materials before you agree to work with them. If they’re not polished, high-quality, and easy-to-understand, you may want to consider looking for representation elsewhere!

    5) What costs will I pay?

    It’s one of the most common questions sellers ask: how much does hiring an agent cost? In addition to paying a relatively small percentage to the Realtor they work with, sellers typically also cover the fee for the buyer’s agent once the deal is done. If you talk to an agent who’s open, honest, and transparent, they’ll be more than happy to provide a breakdown of the expenses you can expect. If you have questions about closing costs, they should also be able to offer enough information to set your mind at ease.

    We know selling a home can feel overwhelming—whether it’s your first time, or you’ve done it several times before. By choosing an agent who answers your questions clearly and makes you feel comfortable with the process, you can start paving the way to a successful sale!

    Are you ready to sell your home on Hilton Head? Reach out to learn how we can help you simplify the process!

  • 7 Hilton Head Events Worth Checking Out This Fall

    7 Hilton Head Events Worth Checking Out This Fall

    Given the temperate weather we enjoy, there’s really no off-season on Hilton Head. Fall is just as vibrant as spring and summer in our little corner of the world, and the abundance of festivals and goings-on here is proof of that fact. Put simply, there’s no shortage of things to do this autumn. That said, there are a few local celebrations this year that truly stand out!

    Whether you call Hilton Head home or you’re just here for a visit, come enjoy some southern hospitality at these unique fall events…

    1) Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival

    Now in its 15th year, the Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival is a week-long celebration of life in the Lowcountry. From October 12th to 20th, you can savor fresh seafood, peruse a massive art show, or even take a paddleboard tour of the May River! While there are plenty of fun events planned, we can’t wait for the Boat Parade on October 13th. Spectators will watch a procession of watercrafts pass by, all the while listening to the comforting sounds of gospel music. Admission is $18 for adults and just $10 for kids—and attending is well worth the price.

    2) Crescendo

    If you’re a lover of arts and culture, you won’t want to miss Crescendo. This one-of-a-kind festival (which will take place from October 10th to November 15th) features over 75 concerts, theatre productions, museum exhibits, literary readings, and historical tours. Highlights will include live jazz by the ocean, a parade of lanterns, and performances of The Nutcracker by the Hilton Head Dance Theatre. The cost of admission will vary depending on the events you want to attend. To learn more, visit the Crescendo website.

    3) Concours D’Elegance & Motoring Festival

    Car aficionados, this one’s for you. From November 1st to 3rd, nearly 200 classic automobiles will be showcased along the fairways of Port Royal Golf Course as part of the Concours D’Elegance & Motoring Festival. A total of 75 judges will be on hand, ready to crown one stunning car best in show! To see more incredible engineering on display, head over to the Hilton Head Island Airport—where you’ll find an impressive collection of vintage aircrafts on display. Put simply, fans of luxury living won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind event General admission ranges from $60-$115.

    4) Tee Off Fore the Arts

    Do you enjoy participating in your sport of choice as much as you like being a spectator? If so, Tee Off for the Arts is the perfect autumn tournament for you. Whether you’re a golf or tennis lover, October 28th is the day to square off against other local enthusiasts! Participation fees start at $150 for tennis players and $350 for individual golfers. This money goes to a great cause—the Arts Centre and its education and outreach programming. So grab your clubs or racquet and head down to the Wexford Golf Club!

    5) Gullah Food Fest

    On Saturday, October 19th, the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head will pay tribute to the cuisine of an incredibly unique island culture. We’re talking gumbo, shrimp and grits, oxtails, and other delicacies. In addition to a savory meal, the Gullah Food Festival will serve up plenty of live music and family-friendly entertainment. The best part is, it’s free! So grab the family and wander over to 12 Georgianna Drive to tickle your tastebuds—and celebrate an important part of our island’s heritage.

    6) Music To Your Mouth

    Foodies rejoice! It’s almost time for the 13th annual Music To Your Mouth Festival. From November 18th to 24th, head over to Palmetto Bluff to sample some of the most delectable food in the country—along with artisan beer, wine, and cocktails. From incredible chefs to highly-skilled mixologists, some of the best creative talent in the business will be gathered for this can’t-miss event. Attendees will also enjoy a variety of great local music—including jazz, blue grass, and Southern rock. For a full weekend package, you’ll pay $1,500.

    7) Farmers Markets

    One of the most popular ways to enjoy fall on Hilton Head is by attending one of our local farmers markets. These are the ideal places to stock up on autumn ingredients for your pumpkin soup, mashed potatoes, cornbread…the list goes on. Two of our favorites are the Farmers Market of Bluffton (held on Calhoun Street from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Thursday) and the Hilton Head Farmers Market (at the Coastal Discovery Museum, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday). So break out those autumn recipes, because it’s time to get cooking!

    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!

  • 5 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

    5 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

    Not sure if you should obtain mortgage pre-approval before starting your home search? You’re not alone. We can’t tell you how many buyers have asked us about this crucial step in the purchase process. Put simply, getting pre-approved by a lender is a sign that you’re well-positioned to receive a mortgage. While it’s not a guarantee, it will bring you closer to full approval – and give you a very good idea of how much you can expect to receive. As far as we’re concerned, the benefits of completing this process far outweigh the effort involved.

    If you’re about to start your search for a home, here are five reasons to get pre-approved beforehand…

    1) Sellers will take you seriously

    Purchasing a home is a big commitment, and buyers don’t always make it to the finish line. So it’s understandable that sellers are sometimes hesitant to make a deal. Fortunately, there are things you can do to boost their confidence in your offer. Obtaining pre-approval is a great first step. By going through the process with a lender, you’re sending the message that you’re a serious buyer. You’re showing home hunters that you’re ready, willing, and financially prepared to buy. Trust us, it can go a long way!

    2) It can help you set your budget

    It happens all the time. Buyers think they can afford more square footage than they can, so they wind up looking at homes outside their price range. The best way to avoid this outcome is by creating a thorough home-hunting budget. You’ll want to factor in all your ongoing expenses, but the amount you’re pre-approved for is a great jumping-off point. Many buyers find that pre-approval is just what they need to get the process started.

    3) You’ll be equipped if there’s multiple offers

    In a competitive-buying situation, it’s important to put your best foot forward. That usually means making an impressive bid – and showing that you’re capable of following through on it. Unfortunately, when a property is in demand, it’s all too easy for buyers to get caught up in the excitement and make offers they can’t afford (or receive financing for). Sellers know this, which is why they’re often more comfortable going with a buyer who’s already been pre-approved.

    4) It can help you get prepared

    Home buyers who don’t get pre-approved run a much higher risk of having things fall apart due to a financial issue. It’s possible to be completely unaware of credit errors that could impact your mortgage application, for example. Having a lender comb through your finances as part of the pre-approval process will highlight these problems early on. It could save you a lot of heartache – and help you decide if there are steps you should take to improve your situation before jumping into the search.

    5) You’ll be one step closer to closing

    Another reason to get pre-approved? Once your offer is accepted, you’ll be closer to completing your transaction than a buyer who’s only pre-qualified. Put simply, there’s a lot of financial background checking involved in obtaining a mortgage. Luckily, if you’ve gone through the pre-approval process, a lender has already done a lot of the leg work. The result is usually a more efficient purchase process – and less time before you close!

    There are few things as exciting as buying a home, but there’s no denying that the process can be stressful. That’s why it’s so important to get started off on the right foot. Fortunately, obtaining mortgage pre-approval can lay the groundwork for an easy, low-stress purchase!

    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!

  • Decorating a Vacation Home: Tips For Creating Your Oasis

    Decorating a Vacation Home: Tips For Creating Your Oasis

    Are you ready to turn your vacation home into a little slice of paradise? If you’ve ever decorated a living space before, you already know how much fun it can be. That said, there are a few key differences between designing a primary residence and one that acts as a home away from home.

    We’ve seen our share of stunning vacation houses, condos, and townhomes over the years, and there are a few things that they all seem to have in common. If you’re gearing up to do some decorating, here are our top tips for creating a refuge your family will enjoy for years to come…

    Avoid clichés

    Decorating a vacation home is the perfect opportunity to try something new. That could mean playful décor, statement-piece furniture, or a color scheme you’ve never tried before. That said, you might want to think twice before opting for an over-the-top theme. We’ve seen our share of beachy vacation homes decked out in seashells and bamboo. A little touch here and there can look nice, but try not to overdo it. We can pretty much guarantee you’ll get sick of the kitsch sooner than you think.

    Consider your renters

    If you’re planning on renting out your new pad, remember that some vacationers won’t share your taste in décor. You can’t please everyone. Luckily, you can create a look that will appeal to as many potential renters as possible. The best way to do that is by striking the right balance between hominess and sophistication. Painting your walls in a warm, neutral shade is a great first step. Next up, consider furnishings and appliances with a timeless-yet-contemporary feel (think simple silhouettes and modern finishes).

    Prioritize comfort

    Your vacation home should be the ultimate place to unwind. Comfort means something a little different to everyone, which is why we suggest putting some thought into what it looks like to you. It could be as simple as cozy throw blankets, or as elaborate as ultra-plush furniture arranged around a state-of-the-art entertainment system. Either way, make sure your vacation home truly feels like an oasis when it’s done.

    Opt for luxury

    Luxury often goes hand in hand with comfort, and it can play a major role in making a vacation home your own. With a few upscale touches, your space can be both cozy and beautiful. Whether it’s an elegant kitchen backsplash or an opulent steam shower, you might want to consider springing for a few of those luxurious little extras. If you have a budget, don’t be afraid to do some digging around online. From appliances to flooring, you’d be surprised by how much you can step it up without breaking the bank.

    Make the most of outdoor space

    In a beautiful place like Hilton Head, most people want to spend as much time outdoors as possible. That often means hitting a beach, golf course, or restaurant patio, but it doesn’t have to. The area around your vacation home can provide just as much enjoyment. When it comes to your backyard, dock, or veranda, set yourself up for good times with comfortable seating and soft lighting. Don’t forget about landscaping! Creating gorgeous outdoor spaces is an art unto itself, so you might want to contact a landscape designer.

    Decorating a vacation home can take some time, but it’s well worth the effort. With a bit of thought, inspiration, and help when you need it (whether it’s from a professional designer or an associate at your local hardware store), you’ll create a space that your family can’t wait to visit.

    Looking for your ideal vacation home on Hilton Head? Reach out to learn what’s on the market, and how we can help!

  • 5 Fun Things To Do On Hilton Head This Summer

    5 Fun Things To Do On Hilton Head This Summer

    Golfing, fishing, boating, hitting the tennis courts—every Hilton Head resident and visitor has their summer favorites. And we’ll be the first to tell you that there’s nothing better than doing what you love. At the same time, there’s something to be said for changing up your routine. From early morning exploration to late-night escapades, there are always plenty of exciting new activities to enjoy here on Hilton Head.

    For the more adventurous among us, here are five unique things to do on the island this summer…

     

    1) Turtle Trot 5K

    Palmetto Dunes is one of our favorite communities on Hilton Head, and the Turtle Trot 5K is an incredibly fun way to explore it! This summer race series is the perfect excuse to take a run (or walk) through some of the most beautiful terrain on the island. There are two different courses to try. One is a beach route, and the other is a road route designed for high tide. Whichever option you choose, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the water, local plant life, and some of the very best scenery that Hilton Head has to offer. The series takes place every Wednesday morning until August 21st,  and participants meet at the Dunes House (14 Dunes House Ln). You can sign up here.

     

    2) Weekends at the Jazz Corner

    We absolutely love the Jazz Corner, and we think you will, too. For 20 years, this beloved local restaurant and venue has been serving up perfectly-prepared meat, fish, and seafood dishes—along with some of the best music in the Low Country. The cozy-yet-sophisticated space was also voted one of the top 100 jazz rooms in the world by Downbeat Magazine, so music lovers can rest assured that it’s the real deal. If you’re looking for somewhere to spend a sultry Saturday night this summer, the Jazz Corner is one of the very best places to do it! You’ll find this gem at 1000 William Hilton Parkway.

     

    3) Lauren Terrett’s Art Exhibition

    The Society of Bluffton Artists (or SOBA) plays host to an elegant gallery that exhibits a wide range of exciting works. Until August 4th, you can visit this local space to see art inspired by life in your own backyard. In her exhibition titled, “The Lowcountry is My Home,” Lauren Terret takes a closer look at what makes our little corner of the world so special. Take it from us: Terret’s bold, colourful paintings are worth checking out, whether you’re a proud local, a newcomer to the area, or a visitor who’s simply exploring the Hilton Head area this summer. You can find the SOBA Gallery at 6 Church Street in Bluffton.

     

    4) A Day at the Beach

    No, we’re not talking about heading down to the water for sand, sun, and swimming (though you’ll find plenty of gorgeous beachfront to enjoy all summer long on Hilton Head). In this case, we’re referring to a fascinating event at the Coastal Discovery Museum. On August 8th, bring kids who are 10 and older down to this unique educational space on the historic Honey Horn property. Together, you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about local habitat—and even create some beautiful art using your own beach treasures. The Coastal Discovery Museum is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive here on the island.

     

    5) Movie Night in the Park

    Every Thursday this summer, movie lovers can get outside and enjoy some of the biggest blockbusters in recent decades. Once the sun goes down in Shelter Cove Community Park, check out a classic or a recent family favorite underneath Hilton Head’s beautiful stars. Features range from Jurassic Park to Top Gun to Frozen, so there’s a little bit of something for everybody. So grab a blanket, pick up some snacks, and head to the park to cap off a perfect day this summer!

     

    Interested in finding a summer home on Hilton Head—or making the island home year-round? Reach out today to learn more about the beautiful properties currently available on the market!

  • Negotiating To Get Your Dream Home: Our Top 5 Tips For Buyers

    Negotiating To Get Your Dream Home: Our Top 5 Tips For Buyers

    Ready to buy a home? Wondering how to negotiate with a seller during your purchase? Try these five tips to get the most out of the process…

    For many people, the word “negotiations” calls to mind corporate boardrooms and cheesy car dealerships. But when it comes to real estate, the bargaining table is the best place to make your wishes known. This is where counter offers are made, helpful discussions happen, and the stage is set for a smooth closing. Best case scenario? You walk away with a purchase price and set of home-buying conditions you’re truly happy with.

    Of course, getting what you want during the negotiation process is no easy task. But with these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a great result.

    1) Do your homework

    It’s impossible to negotiate successfully if you haven’t done your research. That’s why a good agent is always prepared when they go to the bargaining table. They know the seller’s community, inside and out. They also know how much buyers have recently paid for similar homes in the area. This information is priceless. Pointing out that your neighbor got a much better deal than you’re being offered can result in a far more reasonable selling price—and more money in your pocket.

    2) Know the seller

    When we’re creating a negotiation strategy, it helps to find out as much as we can about the seller involved. Do they have to relocate quickly, or would they rather take their time moving? Is it convenience they’re looking for, or are they motivated purely by cold, hard cash? A good agent can often learn the answers to these questions through a bit of casual conversation. That’s good news, because once you know what a seller wants, you can put together an offer that truly appeals to them.

    3) See the other side

    Compromise is a part of life, and it’s certainly a part of the home-buying process. As much as we enjoy helping the buyers we work with get the best price possible, we also know that it’s not all about winning. It’s about making sure the purchase process is smooth—while coming to an agreement that ultimately works for both parties. The only way to do that is by seeing the seller’s point of view. Take it from us: the results are better for everyone when both sides work together!

    4) Know what’s negotiable

    Did you know you can negotiate for a lot more than a lower purchase price? If you didn’t, you’re not alone. Many buyers aren’t aware that they can ask for all kinds of things during the negotiation process. It doesn’t matter whether you want to have a major repair completed, obtain a later closing date, or keep those elegant light fixtures in the living room. More often than not, the things you’d like are worth asking about. Make sure your agent knows what a successful purchase looks to you—that way, they can put their efforts towards making it a reality during the negotiation process.

    5) Find a negotiation expert

    Unfortunately, negotiating isn’t the easiest skill to learn. Most people aren’t very good at it, and that’s okay. If you work with the right agent, they’ll advocate for you—and do so persuasively. They’ll know how to read sellers and their agents. They’ll know when to push forward with confidence, and when to hold back. Put simply, a professional with real estate negotiation expertise is someone you want in your corner during the home stretch of your purchase.

    During one of the biggest transactions of your life, you should make sure that all of your needs are addressed. Start by knowing what you want—and finding an agent who can help you get it.

    Ready to buy a home on Hilton Head? We have the experience and local market knowledge to help you through the process. Send us a message—we’d love to discuss your needs!

  • 5 Tips For Selling a Home When You Have a Dog

    5 Tips For Selling a Home When You Have a Dog

    Dog owners on Hilton Head are a devoted bunch. We love our pooches unconditionally, and we want them to be comfortable at all times—even when we’re selling our homes. At the same time, putting a property on the market is no simple task. It requires time, effort, and a whole lot of energy. Add a furry friend to the mix, and things can start to get downright complicated.

    If you’re a dog owner who’s gearing up to sell your home, here are five tips to help ensure that the process is smooth…

    1) Talk to your vet

    No doubt about it, relocating can be stressful for pets. Fortunately, there’s someone you can always count on for advice: your vet. From tips for managing the transition to tools for highly-nervous pooches (like medication) there are all kinds of ways to reduce your dog’s anxiety when you’re moving. A professional who knows their history can ensure that you find the right one.

    Your vet can also help with practical details if you’ll be settling into a new area—like finding out where to refill existing prescriptions.

    2) Relocate your dog

    We know it’s hard to be away from your best friend. But selling your home successfully may depend on it. The truth is, buyers want to focus on your property during a viewing—and even the most well-behaved dog can pose a distraction. Many home hunters aren’t even keen on purchasing a house or condo where pets have recently lived. Often, they’re envisioning hidden damage.

    We strongly advise making alternate arrangements for your dog during showing periods. Your best option is to find a close friend or family member who’s willing to act as a temporary caregiver. If that’s not an option, look for a reputable dog hotel or boarding service. There are some great ones in Hilton Head, so hop online and start reading those reviews!

    3) Scour Your Home

    Few things turn buyers off quicker than dog hair, stains, and odors. That’s why we always suggest doing a full, honest-to-goodness cleaning before putting a home on the market. Start by searching each room carefully for stains. Don’t just check the obvious places—get a good look at that hard-to-reach carpeting. When you find a troublesome spot, treat it with a stain remover made especially for pet messes. Products with odor-fighting capabilities are especially helpful, since strong air fresheners are never wise to bring out before showings.

    Next up, it’s time to tackle your dog’s little shedding problem. Even if you have a short-haired breed, vacuuming thoroughly is a must. Other tricks include using dryer sheets and pieces of masking tape to pick up stray hairs.

    4) Assess your yard

    There’s nothing better than having outdoor space where your four-legged friend can run around. On the flip side, there’s nothing worse than finding waste in your front or back yard. And we can pretty much guarantee that any potential buyer who notices it will be seriously turned off.

    In preparation for a showing, we suggest doing a thorough assessment of your home’s exterior. Keep an eye out not only for waste, but for dead or yellow grass (which is often caused by urine) as well as turf damage. There are a few different ways that dogs can wreak havoc on a lawn, so keep your eyes peeled!

    5) Ask a friend for help

    It’s a universal truth about dog owners. They tend to stop noticing the smells and shedding caused by their beloved canines. For this reason, you should consider asking someone who doesn’t live in your home to do a walk-through. It could be a close friend or a neighbor, so long as they’re willing to be thorough and honest.

    While it’s hard for many dog lovers to believe, some buyers just aren’t interested in a property once they know it’s been home to a pooch. Luckily, you can remove the signs that point to your furry family member in just a few steps—and make your living space more appealing in the process.

    Have questions about selling a home on Hilton Head—with or without pets? Get in touch. We’ll walk you through the selling process and give you an idea of what to expect!

  • 5 Reasons Hilton Head is Perfect for Tennis Lovers

    5 Reasons Hilton Head is Perfect for Tennis Lovers

    Mention “sports” and “Hilton Head” in the same sentence, and most people will immediately think of golf. We won’t deny that the Island is an incredible place to hit the links—in fact, it’s one of our favorite things about living here. That said, golfers aren’t the only sports enthusiasts in these parts. If you prefer a racquet to a set of clubs, you’ll be in good company on Hilton Head. We’re well known for our tennis—and we offer no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the sport, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned vet.

    Here are five reasons why Hilton Head is the perfect place to build on your tennis skills…

     

    1) The world-class facilities

    It’s no secret that Hilton Head is home to some of the best tennis facilities in the country. The Sea Pines Racquet Club is a great example. This impressive center has earned a #1 worldwide ranking from Tennis Magazine, making it a must-visit for lovers of the sport. The publication also named another Island favorite, Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center, as one of the top 50 tennis resorts in America. Meanwhile, Port Royal Golf and Racquet Club was designated a Gold Medal Resort by Tennis Resorts Online. With accolades like these, it’s easy to see why so many players are drawn to the Island.

     

    2) The variety of courts available

    If the stellar reputations of the tennis centers on Hilton Head don’t impress you, the sheer number of courts will. There are over 500 public and private options here—perfect for those who like to switch things up. Thanks to this variety, you can also play on all three grand-slam surfaces: clay, grass, or hard courts. If you’re a night owl, you’ll be pleased to learn that many of Hilton Head’s courts are well lit. So feel free to grab your racquet and work off that post-dinner fatigue!

     

    3) Great instructors

    While playing tennis is fun no matter your skill level, the right instruction can really kick your abilities up a notch. Hilton Head is the ideal place to do that, thanks to all of the incredible talent that calls the Island home. First off, we have the legendary Stan Smith. This former head coach of the men’s Olympic team (and past winner of the U.S. Open and Wimbledon) sits at the helm of the Sea Pines Racquet Club. Stan is far from alone. Having coached some of the biggest superstars tennis has ever seen, Dennis Van Der Meer is another local legend. Today, he continues his teaching legacy at Van Der Meer Tennis. Across Hilton Head, you’ll find an impressive number of clinics, academies, and camps—and plenty of experienced instructors to ensure that they’re all worth your time.

     

    4) The weather

    Are you a fan of both tennis and the great outdoors? If so, you’ll love Hilton Head—where the average annual temperature is a gorgeous 66 degrees. Even during the colder months, the weather tends to be temperate. Sure, it might cool down in the winter. But generally speaking, it’s always nice enough for a tennis match. That’s a far cry from what you can expect in other parts of the country, where playing on an outdoor court year-round is out of the question.

     

    5) There’s so much more to do

    If tennis is your sport of choice, there’s no shortage of ways to relax in between practices and matches on Hilton Head. Visit one of our beaches, which draw lovers of sand and sun from all over the country. Try a top-notch restaurant (we’re big fans of the Jazz Corner, the Crazy Crab, and Fraser’s Tavern, to name a few). Hit the charming shops at Coligny Plaza or Main Street Village. While tennis may be your favorite activity on the Island, you’ll never run out of things to do when you’re not playing!

     

    Thinking of making the move to Hilton Head? From sporting facilities to fun local amenities, we know what life on the Island is really like. Get in touch to learn more—or check out our latest listings!