Herman and Davis Properties

Category: Buying

  • 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!

  • 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 Home Buyers in a Multiple-Offer Situation

    5 Tips for Home Buyers in a Multiple-Offer Situation

    No doubt about it: Hilton Head real estate is a hot commodity. Home hunters come from all over to find their ideal Lowcountry properties—and once they do, the competition is stiff. Unfortunately, squaring off against other buyers for a house or condo can be pretty stressful. The good news? If you fall in love with an in-demand property, the outcome isn’t entirely up to fate. By making the strongest offer possible, you can maximize your chances of securing the home of your dreams.

    Without further ado, here are our top five tips for coming out on top in a multiple-offer scenario…

     

    1) Get pre-approved

    Three words: obtain mortgage pre-approval. Whenever possible, we tell buyer clients to get pre-approved before they enter the market. During this process, a lender will look closely at your financial situation to figure out just how much financing you’re likely to get. While many home buyers skip this step, it can make a huge difference in the eyes of sellers.

    A pre-approval letter shows you’re serious about making a purchase. It says you’ll almost certainly have the funds to make it to closing. In a competitive situation, that kind of dependability can set you apart from other buyers.

     

    2) Make your best offer first

    At the offer stage, we often advise leaving room to negotiate. This strategy can lead to a better price and more favorable purchase conditions. But there are also times when you should offer as much money as you can right out of the gate—like when there are other motivated buyers in the mix.

    The truth is, sellers don’t always want to go through a long, drawn-out negotiation process. When they already have some great offers on the table, they’ll often just go with the highest bidder. Of course, that’s not always the case. A seller’s reasons for choosing one offer over another can be complex, so it pays to work with an agent who has experience with these types of situations.

     

    3) Forgo unnecessary contingencies

    Many home hunters don’t know what contingencies are, but the idea behind them is pretty simple. In the most basic terms, they enable you to back out of a deal if certain conditions aren’t met. For example, if there’s a financing contingency in your contract and your mortgage falls through, you won’t have to go through with your purchase. These stipulations can protect you—but they can also make the path to closing more complicated for sellers.

    Reducing the contingencies in your offer (or removing them altogether) can help you simplify the process, which could give you an edge over other buyers. Just be sure to talk to your agent to assess the level risk involved for your circumstances.

     

    4) Consider making a cash offer

    If it’s a possibility for you, consider offering to buy your dream home in cash.  It may sound a bit odd, but there’s a reason why sellers like these types of offers so much. They tend to be both quick and relatively simple—which is why buyers who make them often have a huge advantage.

    Since there’s no lender involved in a cash offer, there’s no mortgage processing time. There are also no unpleasant surprises to hold things up at the last minute (something that happens all too often with home loans).

     

    5) Work with the seller’s timeline

    Cold, hard cash is the deciding factor for most sellers. But for many, convenience matters—a lot. That’s why we always aim to get a sense of a seller’s timeline. If they’re relocating for work or family, it’s usually short. On the other end of the spectrum, some sellers prefer to move at a more relaxed pace. Either way, if you’re willing to work with their schedule, they may be more likely to accept your offer. Be as flexible as you can!

    We’ve helped buyers navigate enough multiple-offer scenarios to know they can be stressful. Having said that, the possibility of a bidding war doesn’t have to impact your life in a negative way. We suggest doing everything you can to strengthen your offer—and up your chances of getting your dream home.

     

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

     

  • 4 Things to Know about Buying a Vacation Home

    4 Things to Know about Buying a Vacation Home

    Are you looking for your own personal oasis? We’re talking about a place where you can unplug, kick back, and truly relax. A place where your cares melt away the moment you unlock the front door. Put simply, the living space we’re describing is the vacation home of your dream.

    Many of the Hilton Head buyers we work with are looking for a home away from home. It makes sense—the island’s temperate climate, spectacular ocean views, and world-class recreational opportunities make it a vacationer’s dream. While we love the enthusiasm of these paradise seekers, we always tell them that the process of buying a second home comes with some unique challenges. Fortunately, knowing what to look for will help you make a purchase that you’re absolutely thrilled with—today, and for years to come.

    If you’re preparing to buy a vacation home, here are four things you should know as you embark on your search…

    1) What you’re looking for

    Close your eyes and imagine your ultimate vacation. Are you relaxing in the lap of luxury? Enjoying the solitude of a cozy little villa? The answer to this question will help ensure that you find exactly what you’re looking for in a property. For some buyers, it’s all about being waterfront. For others, it’s about having the outdoor kitchen or spa-inspired bathroom of their dreams. Once you decide what you want your vacation days to look like, it will be much easier to create a list of must-have features to guide you during your search.

    2) Where you want to be

    There’s no shortage of places to buy a gorgeous home, but some areas will be better aligned with your preferences than others. That’s why it’s so important to choose your location wisely. We’ve worked with a whole lot of buyers over the years, and many of them know exactly where they want to be—whether that’s in a specific community, near a particular golf course, or within walking distance of a marina or private beach. Of course, it can sometimes take a little bit longer to find your dream home when you’re set on a particular neighborhood. But in our opinion, the outcome is always worth it!

    3) How you’ll get there

    It may sound obvious, but make sure your vacation home is accessible enough that you’ll use it regularly. Trust us, it’s all too easy to fall in love with a property and forget about the commute! Here on the island, many property owners fly in for their vacations. Thanks to a recent runway extension at the Hilton Head airport, there’s potential for more flights to come to our little piece of paradise than ever before. Our point is, whether you plan to fly or drive to your dream destination, it pays to think through the route you’ll take—and whether the distance could be an impediment in the future.

    4) The rental options

    The demand for vacation rentals is high, and many owners in desirable destinations are cashing in. But before you buy a property with the intention of renting it out, it’s important to know the rules. In many communities on Hilton Head, you’ll have the freedom to rent out your vacation home according to your own terms. Others have restrictions in place, or prohibit the practice altogether. Your agent will know what you can and can’t do, so be sure to discuss it with them before making a commitment. Word to the wise: if you do get the opportunity to rent out your space, make sure you know your taxation obligations!

    The bottom line? Owning a vacation home can be incredibly rewarding. To get the most out of the experience, it pays to know what you’re looking for—and be aware of any small challenges that could come up along the way.

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

  • Do You Really Need a Realtor to Buy Your New Home?

    Do You Really Need a Realtor to Buy Your New Home?

    Are you preparing to jump into the real estate market? If you’re like many buyers, you may be wondering if you’ll need a Realtor to find the home of your dreams. In all honesty, there’s no simple answer. On the one hand, we help home hunters navigate the buying process on a regular basis, and they’re always thrilled with the outcome. On the other, we’re well aware that many buyers make the decision to start searching on their own.

    Ultimately, how you approach your home purchase is up to you. But we have some advice for anyone who’s thinking about going it alone: understand what a buyer’s agent does. Knowing the value that an expert can provide will help you make an informed decision about whether you should work with one.

    Here are some of the major ways that an experienced agent could help you find and secure your ideal property…

    Market knowledge

    Is that home you found online really worth the asking price? And how much are other buyers in the area paying for similar properties? Experienced agents know the answers to these questions. We can determine the market value of a property, and whether there will likely be room to negotiate.

    Here on Hilton Head, there are so many different types of property available—from modest vacation homes to spacious oceanfront villas—that it pays to know what a piece of real estate is really worth. A professional who knows the local market inside and out can give you that information—and prevent you from seriously overpaying for a home.

    Community expertise

    In our experience, home buyers are savvy. So it makes sense that they place such a high value on neighborhood expertise. From homeowners association fees to plans for future development to local grocery stores and cafes, it’s important to know a community intimately before you decide to call it home.

    A great buyer’s agent will help you match your needs, goals, and lifestyle to the neighborhood that’s perfect for you. On the island, that means knowing the many potential benefits that an area provides (such as private beach access) as well as any rules associated with it (such as possible restrictions on renting out vacation properties).

    Offer-stage advice

    Finding your dream property is exciting, but it’s only half the battle. Take it from us: making an offer and having it accepted can be complicated! One of the biggest challenges you’ll likely face has to do with money. Offer too little of it, and you may be overlooked by sellers. Too much, and you could wind up overpaying.

    Of course, it’s not always all about cold, hard cash. Often, getting a seller to accept your offer means making it appealing in other ways. Should you make a concession, write a compelling letter, or be more flexible with your closing timeline? A buyer’s agent will look at your situation and help you decide which tack to take.

    Also worth noting: a buyer’s agent can help you navigate multiple offer scenarios. That’s good news for Hilton Head buyers—because if you’re planning to buy a gorgeous property here, there’s a good chance you’re going to face some competition.

    Negotiating

    Unless a seller accepts your offer as-is, you’ll need to enter into negotiations with them. This is your opportunity to ensure that the purchase you make works in your favor. It can also be a nerve-racking experience—even for those who have sales experience.

    Fortunately, an experienced buyer’s agent will enter negotiations with an understanding of seller psychology, a full awareness of how seller’s agents work, and an in-depth knowledge of the local market. It’s our job to use this information to advocate for you at the negotiation table—and ensure that you get the best price possible!

    The details

    Last but certainly not least, a great buyer’s agent will ensure that the details of your purchase are taken care of—right up until closing. They’ll advise you about the steps you need to take to complete the deal, and help you coordinate with the seller, their agent, and the other parties involved.

    Of course, we agents aren’t the only people who can help you make a successful home purchase. From mortgage lenders to legal experts, you’ll almost certainly need to consult with outside professionals. We Realtors can make the process easier by recommending the best in the business! It’s all part of our friendly approach—which is exactly what buyers expect on an island like Hilton Head.

    The bottom line

    So, should you buy a home without the help of a Realtor? There are many factors to consider, and the decision is ultimately yours to make. That said, it’s important to be aware of what buyer’s agents bring to the table—and how your own skillset matches up. Whether you work with an agent or decide to make a purchase on your own, it’s important to ensure that you feel comfortable at every step of the process.

    Have questions about buying a home on Hilton Head? We’d love to walk you through the buying process—and give you an idea of what’s available on the market!

  • Sea Pines Vs. Palmetto Dunes: Which Place is Right for You?

    Sea Pines Vs. Palmetto Dunes: Which Place is Right for You?

    Are you trying to decide between buying property in Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes? We’ll tell you right now, it’s not an easy decision. These communities are two of Hilton Head’s most popular—and for good reason. While we can’t tell you which place to choose (both are incredible, and we honestly don’t have a favorite), we can help you weigh your options.

    If you’re thinking about living in Sea Pines vs. Palmetto Dunes, here are some of the key factors you should consider…

     

    Recreational facilities

    Whether you prefer golf clubs or tennis rackets, you’ll find no shortage of great facilities in both Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes. Sea Pines is home to several fantastic golf courses, including Harbour Town (which hosts the RBC Heritage PGA Tour) and the always-challenging Heron Point. The community is also home to a number of top-notch tennis facilities. One of the best is the Sea Pines Racquet Club, which is directed by Wimbledon great Stan Smith.

    When it comes to recreational facilities, Palmetto Dunes has an equally stellar reputation. Check out the Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills, or George Fazio golf courses for a world-class experience. If tennis is more your thing, visit the award-winning courts at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Centre.

     

    Beach access

    There are plenty of stunning beaches on Hilton Head, and some of the best can be found in two of the island’s most sought-after communities. In Sea Pines, there are an impressive five miles of beachfront to explore. Some areas are quieter than others, but the most popular hotspot is the Sea Pines Beach Club. The club offers not only restrooms and showers, but a bar, food service, and—if you’re there at the right time—family entertainment. Use of Sea Pines beaches is generally restricted to community property owners. For convenience, they’re serviced by a local trolley.

    In Palmetto Dunes, there are three pristine miles of sand to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to swim, surf, sunbathe, or simply go for a scenic stroll, the community’s oceanfront is the perfect place to do it. The Dunes House (which contains a deck and restrooms) is an ultra-convenient spot for a pit stop, while getting to and from the beach is a breeze via the Dunes Buggy.

     

    Shopping & restaurants

    Next up in our comparison of Sea Pines vs. Palmetto Dunes: places to eat and shop. In both communities, you’ll find eateries with mouth-watering menus and boutiques that cater to refined tastes. If you’re planning to grab a meal in Sea Pines, we have a few recommendations. Namely, Fraser’s Tavern for pub food (from shrimp and grits to pizza), Crazy Crab for seafood (you’ll find to-die-for crab legs, shrimp, and oysters), Coast for impeccable oceanfront dining (or its adults-only option, Oceanfront Lounge), or Links for something a bit more upscale. Shoppers should hit up the Harbour Town Shops and Sea Pines Centre, home to over twenty upscale boutiques, galleries, and gift shops.

    In Palmetto Dunes, you’ll find a variety of great eateries. HH Prime is a favorite for fans of perfectly-grilled steaks, pitch-perfect seafood, and impressive wine lists.  The local go-to for a pick-up lunch is the General Store, which you’ll find on the main road into the community. Palmetto Dunes is also located across the highway from Shelter Cove Harbor, where you’ll find a number of fantastic restaurants and cafes. We’re partial to San Miguel’s, which offers gorgeous marina views, great salsa, and an outdoor bar with music. Speaking of Shelter Cove Harbor, it’s also a fantastic place to peruse some charming shops—whether you’re looking for fine art, chic apparel, or outdoor goods. On Tuesday nights, you’ll even find fireworks!

     

    Real estate

    In Sea Pines, you’ll find a wide variety of properties across different price points. From water-view villas, great residential homes, and ideal rental properties to multi-million dollar estates, there’s a variety of gorgeous options in the area. Palmetto Dunes also offers a whole lot of selection. There’s a residents-only area called Leamington, where you’ll find lots of land to build on as well as gorgeous homes for sale. Across the community, you’ll find an array of villas, townhouses, and single-family homes (all of which are on or near the Atlantic Ocean).

    Where you decide to settle will depend on what you hope to get out of living in Hilton Head—whether it’s great golfing opportunities, fun in the sun, rest and relaxation, or all of the above. To discover which community is perfect for you, talk an agent who’s a local expert!

     

    Thinking of buying a home in Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes? Get in touch—we’d love to hear more about what you’re looking for and discuss what’s currently on the market!

  • How to Buy a Vacation Home in 5 Steps

    How to Buy a Vacation Home in 5 Steps

    Looking for the perfect property for your weekend and summer getaways? Here, we’ll tell you how to buy a vacation home in five steps.

    Anyone who’s been to Hilton Head knows it’s a great vacation spot. But for many visitors, the occasional getaway isn’t enough. They want to explore all that the Hilton Head Island has to offer—and not just as a tourist. If this sounds familiar, you may be ready to buy a vacation home in the area. While your search is bound to be exciting, there are a few things you should know about the process before you get started. Here, we’ll tell you the five crucial steps you should take before you purchase your second home.

    how to buy a vacation home

    1) Be aware of how you’ll use the property

    The first step you take toward purchasing a vacation home should be determining how you’ll use it. Will you be buying the property solely for long-term personal enjoyment? If you hope to rent it out, you should know that some areas are better for this purpose than others (and in some neighbourhoods, rentals aren’t allowed for a period of less than six months). Are you planning to move there when you retire, or would you prefer to eventually resell it for a tidy profit? Your criteria for a property will depend (at least in part) on the answers to these questions.

    2) Make a buying checklist

    The next step is creating a checklist of must-have features and amenities. This list should set out your buying criteria, which will help you and your real estate agent narrow down your search. Are you looking for a small home with a minimal aesthetic, or something more luxurious with extra guest bedrooms? Is living right on the water a priority? What about being close to a top-notch golf or tennis facility in Hilton Head? Knowing exactly what you’re looking for can help ensure that you don’t waste time looking at homes that aren’t right for you.

    3) Create a budget

    Before you jump into the home hunt, it’s best to budget thoroughly so you don’t look at homes outside of your price range. In our experience, buyers often overestimate what they can afford. Of course, there are the big expenses—like your mortgage (if you’re getting one) and homeowner’s insurance. But the smaller costs are easy to overlook when you’re searching for a second home. How much can you set aside for unexpected repairs and ongoing maintenance? Even smaller fees, like those for garbage collection, can add up—which means you should try to factor them in early on.

    4) Speak to the right professionals

    Buying a vacation home is more complicated than most people realize. Luckily, working with the right professionals can simplify the process. A good financial advisor can help with everything from tax planning to clarifying how your investment will impact the future. If you’re planning to seek mortgage financing, you’ll also want to think carefully about which mortgage lender you choose. The institution you work with could impact the time it to takes for your loan to be processed and the interest rates you pay, among other things. Last but certainly not least, an experienced local real estate agent can help you find the vacation home of your dreams—and guide you through the buying process. On Hilton Head, there’s no shortage of wonderful homes and communities to choose from. Working with someone who has local expertise can help ensure that you make the right decision.

    5) Make sure you understand the tax implications

    When house and condo hunters start thinking about how to buy a vacation home, they often overlook the tax implications. If you rent out your property for more than fourteen days per year, you’ll have to report your profits as income. The upside is that you can deduct some of your operating expenses (such as certain maintenance fees and utilities) when you file your taxes. Capital gains tax is another important consideration. If you eventually sell your property, you may have to pay this tax—though you can avoid doing so if your vacation home becomes your primary residence for an extended period of time. We always advise talking to a financial expert if you have any tax-related questions.

    Have questions about how to buy a vacation home? We know the local market, and we can help you find what you’re looking for. Get in touch, and let’s talk about it!

  • 5 Questions to Ask When Buying Waterfront Property

    5 Questions to Ask When Buying Waterfront Property

    What are the most important questions to ask when buying waterfront property?

    Without a doubt, Hilton Head’s shorelines are among the most beautiful in the world. So it makes sense that many islanders—and potential future islanders—dream of purchasing homes on the water. While the appeal of these properties is undeniable, buying them comes with a few unique challenges. Fortunately, interested buyers can simplify the process by asking the right questions and taking a few precautions.

    If you’re thinking of living along Hilton Head’s shores, read our top five tips for buying waterfront property.

    1) Ask when the bulkhead was last inspected

    If you don’t know what bulkheads are, you’re not alone. Put simply, they’re barriers or walls built along the shoreline. They prevent erosion and protect properties from water damage. Replacing one can cost thousands (if not tens of thousands) of dollars, so the last thing you want is to learn that yours is on its last legs.

    When you look at a property with a bulkhead, ask about the last time it was inspected. It’s usually also wise to arrange for an inspection of your own. If you discover that a bulkhead is in bad condition, you may be able to negotiate with the seller for a lower price. Your agent can help at every step of this process.

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    2) Inquire about permits for existing water structures (especially docks)

    When you’re considering a home, look into whether existing water structures were built legally. Some homeowners are less-than-diligent about acquiring proper permits and following local construction rules. In our experience, docks are frequent offenders.

    The bad news? Buying a property with unpermitted or improperly-done work may lead to future consequences. If your dock was built without receiving the all clear, you may be forced to remove it, upgrade it, or pay a fine. You may also have to deal with some major headaches if you one day decide to sell your property.

    Trust us: it pays to ask the right questions. Be sure that any dock you buy as part of a home purchase is in keeping with municipal and state rules, along with those set out by your property owner’s association.

    3) Determine what kind of improvements you can make

    Unfortunately, when they’re looking at homes, many buyers forget to think about the major upgrades they’ll want to perform. That’s why determining which improvements are allowable is one of our top tips for buying waterfront property.

    For each property you’re considering, learn the applicable rules. If you have your eye on a place in a new subdivision, be aware that you may not be able to build a dock (depending on the developer’s plans). The Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management can also prevent homeowners from building the docks they want (for example, they can restrict length).

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    4) Ask if there’s a history of flooding

    On Hilton Head, flooding happens. It can damage homes, reduce property values, and force those affected to file annoying insurance claims.

    Let us be clear: if the property you’re looking at his been seriously impacted by flood waters, the seller should disclose this information. That said, it never hurts to do due diligence. Discuss any concerns that you have about a property’s flooding history with your agent. They can ask the right questions to get as much information as possible, which will help you make an informed decision.

    5) Find out what the maintenance is like

    Here’s one of the most overlooked tips for buying waterfront property: find out what the yearly maintenance costs are like. Homes along the shoreline are often more impacted by the elements than those further inland. We’re talking not only about floods and major storms, but regular wear and tear.

    For some waterfront homes, siding and pipes may have to be replaced relatively often. It all depends on the construction of the house or condo you’re looking at and the geographical conditions surrounding it.

    These are just a few of the questions you should ask if you’re touring homes near the shoreline. An experienced Hilton Head real estate agent can go beyond providing tips for buying waterfront property to guide you at every step of the purchase process.

    Looking 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!

  • 7 Painted Bunting Road Drone Video

    7 Painted Bunting Road Drone Video

    Situated on an oversized 3rd row lot, this home shows a warm elegance with every detail and finish. Richly appointed with 4000 livable square feet on 2 levels, this split floor plan boasts 4 large bedrooms, all with ensuite baths to include a 1st floor Master Suite. Enjoy entertaining in this gourmet kitchen with a wet bar overlooking the Family Room. The covered deck out to the pool/spa serves as the perfect backdrop for family and friends to gather and showcases the beautiful landscaping and privacy. Boasting wonderful storage with a 2 car garage and 2 additional parking pads. This home is a dream come true with the finest of appointments.

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    Fill out the form below or give us a call at 843.384.4473

  • 5 Helpful House Hunting Tips

    5 Helpful House Hunting Tips

    We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: Hilton Head real estate is a hot commodity. Now more than ever, house hunters are looking for their own little pieces of paradise here on the island. We’re seeing the market get more competitive, which means buyers have to be savvy to secure their Lowcountry dream homes.

    Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to simplify the home-buying process and make a successful purchase. Here are our top five tips for buying a home on Hilton Head.

    1) Get pre-approved for a mortgage

    Did you know that being pre-approved for a mortgage isn’t the same as being pre-qualified? If not, you’re in good company. Many homebuyers believe that being pre-qualified for a decent loan is enough to impress sellers. But trust us: when you’re looking at a gorgeous island property with the potential to attract many buyers, you’ll want to have that pre-approval letter in hand.

    Pre-qualification gives you an idea of how much financing you could feasibly get from a lender. It’s like an estimate, and it’s not a guarantee. Pre-approval, on the other hand, is an actual commitment from a lender to loan you a certain amount. When a seller sees that you’re pre-approved, they’re far more likely to view you as a serious buyer.

    2) Research potential communities

    One of our biggest tips for buying a home on Hilton Head is researching the different areas here. When it comes to communities, the island offers a lot of variety. Does the idea of living in a gated community on the ocean (such as Sea Pines, Palmetto Dunes, or Shipyard) appeal to you? Perhaps you’re more partial to a private residential club like Long Cove or Wexford.

    No matter where you live on Hilton Head, you’ll find spectacular natural beauty and access to some of the best recreational opportunities the Lowcountry has to offer. That said, knowing exactly what you want could save you a lot of time. If you know you’d like to be close to schools, within walking distance of a particular section of coastline, or near a specific set of biking trails, your real estate agent can help you narrow down your search by location.

    3) Make a list of features and amenities you want

    Speaking of location, being aware of the amenities you want to live close to can help you zero in on the right home.

    If you’re an avid golfer, is there a particular course that you’re excited about? Living in Long Cove will get you a membership to the private Pete Dye-designed course inside the community’s gates. Similarly, if you want to while away the summer on a particular beach that has private access, where you choose to live could impact your plans.

    We suggest making a list of the amenities you’re most attracted to. Even if you don’t find precisely what you’re looking for on the market, your agent can help you find an amazing property that meets your needs.

    Next up, add your must-have home features to the list. Are hardwood floors important to you? What about high ceilings? Will you need a big backyard for entertaining? And how important is it to find a home with a screened-in porch? If you find the right home, many of these features can be added after you complete your purchase.

    4) Get an inspection—and ask questions

    It’s one of our biggest tips for buying a home: ensure that the property you’re purchasing is thoroughly inspected.

    Nobody wants to discover that there are serious structural issues with their dream home. But you should be aware if a roof or HVAC system needs to be replaced. From there, it’s your choice whether to move on and find a new property, ask the seller if they’ll carry out the necessary repairs, or try to negotiate for a lower price.

    To ensure the inspection process benefits you, work with the right professional. Find an inspector with experience, credentials, and references. Your real estate agent should be able to help with a referral.

    5) Work with the right agent

    This brings us to our last tip for buying a home. To ensure your Hilton Head property purchase goes off without a hitch, find a great real estate agent. Your agent should know the island inside and out. They should be able to answer any questions you might have about what life is like in its many communities. They should also have intimate knowledge of the housing market—and be able to use this information to negotiate on your behalf.

    Most importantly, work with an agent you feel completely comfortable with. The home-buying process can be complex. But with the right agent in your corner, finding and purchasing your dream home can be a whole lot simpler.

     

    Looking 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!