In my efforts to be able to help people in my Real Estate Business, I try to pick my continuing education to align with what I encounter. I am proud of my Certified Divorce Specialist designation because it gave me training to best serve people who are going through the divorce process and have to decide what to do concerning their house. This is an explanation of what my Certified Divorce Specialist means.

What is a Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS)?

A CDS is one who has completed the Certified Divorce Specialists (CDS) Program – a comprehensive training for professionals in various industries who wish to provide better services to their divorcing clients. What is a Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS)?

The CDS curriculum consists of a specialized communication skills training to help foster a successful and productive professional/client relationship. It also highlights specific legal, financial, mental health, and real estate information that are integral to the divorce process giving the professional a holistic understanding of their clients experience.

What does this mean for Divorcing Clients?

It means that the CDS Alumni has gone above and beyond to make sure they are equipped with unique skills and divorce-specific information to manage a better experience for all parties involved.

Divorce Educated

More Resourceful

Better Prepared

Why hire a Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS)?

If you are contemplating, or in the midst of a divorce, make sure you work with professionals who:

• Have a holistic understanding of important legal, financial, mental health and residential implications on the divorce process. 
• Know the various stages you will be experiencing based on the type of divorce process you have chosen, such as mediation, collaborative or litigation. 
• Are equipped with unique tools to help communicate more effectively with all parties involved.
• Understand the implications divorce has on children and are committed to consider their best interest throughout the process.
• Are aware when the many legal, financial, mental health and residential professionals might be needed for your case.
• Recognize the emotional distress divorce causes and believe in supporting clients with empathy and individualized attention.
• Have access to fellow CDS Alumni from across the country that can be valuable resources.
• Are consistently connecting with and learning from other divorce professionals to stay up-to-date.

Designated Certified Divorce Specialists (CDS) are dedicated to providing divorcing clients special care.

Reach out to me if you have any questions on how my CDS may be able to help ease some of the pain of the real estate transaction during a divorce.

Gated communities have become increasingly popular in the world of residential real estate, offering a unique blend of security, exclusivity, and amenities. If you're considering a move to a gated community or wondering if it's the right investment for you, this article will delve into everything you need to know. From understanding the benefits to embracing the lifestyle, let's explore the ins and outs of gated communities.

Benefits of Gated Communities

1. Enhanced Security: One of the primary draws of gated communities is the heightened sense of security they provide. With controlled access points and often on-site security personnel, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their safety is a top priority.
2. Exclusivity and Privacy: Gated communities offer a sense of exclusivity, creating a more private and tight-knit neighborhood environment. This exclusivity often translates to fewer solicitors and a reduced amount of through traffic.
3. Amenities Galore: Many gated communities boast a wide range of amenities that cater to various lifestyles. From golf courses and swimming pools to fitness centers and walking trails, these communities provide residents with convenient access to recreational facilities.
4. Cohesive Aesthetics: Gated communities often enforce architectural guidelines, leading to cohesive aesthetics throughout the neighborhood. This commitment to design can enhance property values and create a visually appealing environment.
5. Maintenance Services: Depending on the community, maintenance of common areas, landscaping, and exterior upkeep might be handled by the homeowners' association. This can relieve homeowners of certain responsibilities and ensure that the neighborhood maintains its attractiveness.

Embracing the Gated Community Lifestyle

1. Community Engagement: Gated communities foster a sense of community due to their smaller size and shared amenities. This environment encourages residents to connect and form meaningful relationships, making it an ideal choice for those who value social interactions.
2. Leisure Opportunities: With a range of on-site amenities, residents can enjoy leisure activities without leaving the neighborhood. This convenience can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle.
3. Safety for Families: Gated communities are particularly popular among families with children. The controlled environment allows kids to play outdoors with an added layer of safety, giving parents peace of mind.
4.  

Considerations When Choosing a Gated Community

1. Homeowners' Association (HOA): Each gated community has its own set of rules and regulations governed by the HOA. It's essential to review these guidelines to ensure they align with your lifestyle preferences.
2. Costs and Fees: Gated communities often come with HOA fees to cover maintenance and amenities. Evaluate these costs and factor them into your budget.
3. Location: While gated communities offer security, they might be slightly more secluded. Consider the location in terms of proximity to work, schools, and essential services.
4. Resale Value: Gated communities tend to hold their value well, but it's still important to research the resale history and trends in the area.

Conclusion

Gated communities offer a blend of security, exclusivity, and amenities that cater to a wide range of homeowners. Whether you're seeking a safe environment for your family or a community with a strong sense of belonging, these neighborhoods have much to offer. As you explore your options in residential real estate, don't overlook the unique benefits and lifestyle that gated communities provide.

THE HOUSE BINDER-You have to make one!

Today, I want to discuss a simple yet effective tool that can bring organization and peace of mind to homeowners - the house binder.  It should include but is not limited to the following.  Keep in a handy location and update when necessary.

• ​Property Documents
• Surveys
• ​Home Maintenance Records
• ​Appliance Manual and Warranties
• ​Financial Information
• ​Home Improvement Projects
• ​Emergency Contacts
  

​I truly believe that a well-organized binder is an indispensable tool for every homeowner. This simple practice can help you  stay on top of your home's documentation, reduce stress, and maximize the value of your investment.

THE NUMBERS

648 Homes active on the market with an Average D.O.M. of 126. 71 of those are new in the last 7 days. 

1498 are under contract 

67 have been sold in the last 7 days with an average D.O.M. of 46 Days. 

190 Condos active on the market with an Average D.O.M. 82. 23 of those are new in the last 7 days. 

147 are under contract 

23 have been sold in the last 7 days with an average D.O.M. of 55 Days.

Home inspections are an important aspect of homeownership, as they help you stay on top of any potential issues with your home, and ensure that it remains in good condition over the years. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why you should have a home inspection periodically, what you can expect during the inspection process, and how to choose the right home inspector for your needs.

Why You Should Have a Home Inspection Periodically

1. Early detection of problems: One of the main reasons to have a home inspection is to identify any potential problems early on. This could be anything from a leaky roof to a faulty electrical system. By catching these issues early, you can make the necessary repairs before they become larger, more expensive problems.
2. Maintenance planning: A home inspection can help you plan for future maintenance needs. For example, if the inspector notes that your roof will need to be replaced in a few years, you can start saving for that expense now, rather than having to scramble to pay for it when the time comes.
3. Increased peace of mind: Knowing that your home is in good condition can give you peace of mind and help you feel more secure in your investment. Having a home inspection can also give you confidence in your purchase if you're buying a new home, as you'll know what you're getting into before you close the deal.
4. Better resale value: If you're thinking about selling your home in the future, having a home inspection can help you identify any issues that need to be addressed before putting your home on the market. This can increase the resale value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

During a home inspection, a professional inspector will examine all aspects of your home, including the roof, foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, and more. The inspector will look for any signs of damage or wear, as well as any potential safety hazards. They may also take photos and make notes to document their findings.

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report that outlines their findings and recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades. It's important to review this report carefully and address any issues as soon as possible.

Choosing the Right Home Inspector

When choosing a home inspector, it's important to look for someone who is licensed and experienced. You should also ask for references and check their credentials before making a decision. Additionally, it's a good idea to choose an inspector who is neutral and impartial, and who has no vested interest in the outcome of the inspection.

In conclusion, having a home inspection periodically is an important aspect of homeownership that can help you keep your home in good condition and protect your investment. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, a home inspection can provide valuable insights and peace of mind. So don't hesitate to schedule an inspection today!

When it comes to buying a new home, there are a lot of things to consider. From location to layout to condition, there are many factors that can impact your decision. However, there are a few key things that every buyer should be on the lookout for when buying a new home.

1. Location: The location of your new home is one of the most important factors to consider. You'll want to think about things like proximity to schools, shopping, and public transportation, as well as the overall safety and desirability of the neighborhood. Pay attention to the area's crime rate and the quality of local schools and amenities.

2. Condition: Another important factor to consider when buying a new home is its condition. Look out for any signs of wear and tear, such as peeling paint or leaks. Make sure to do a thorough inspection of the home, including the roof, foundation, and any major appliances. Check for any signs of termite or other pest infestations and make sure that the home is up to code.

3. Future Potential: Before buying a home, try to think about what you might want to do with it in the future. Think about whether you might want to add a room, remodel the kitchen or bathrooms, or add a pool or other outdoor features. Make sure that the home has the potential for these types of updates, and that any necessary permits or zoning approvals are in place.

By keeping these three things in mind, you'll be able to make a more informed decision when buying a new home. Remember to take your time and do your research, and you'll be sure to find the perfect home for you and your family.

There's no magical age or life stage at which you'll know for sure exactly when to buy a house. There are, however, a few factors you'll want to take into account.

Finances: How's your credit score? Can you afford to take on a monthly mortgage payment? Do you have enough cash to pay for a down payment and closing costs? Sit down with a mortgage lender who can help you evaluate your finances.

You'll also need to budget for home maintenance expenses. One rule of thumb says homeowners should set aside 1% to 3% of their home's purchase price a year for home maintenance and repairs. So, if your home cost $400,000, you'd set aside at least $4,000 annually. (Doing preventative maintenance, however, can go a long way toward staving off expensive repairs.)

Stability: If you’re on solid ground financially, with a stable job to support you, buying a home can be a way to lower your monthly housing costs (real talk: Owning is often cheaper than renting in some cities), gain a valuable financial asset, and, if you itemize, reap some tax benefits.

If you're ready to commit to a home and city (and your job) for a few years, you're probably in a stable enough situation to be a homeowner.

Lifestyle: Owning a house allows you to develop a strong relationship with a local community. Buying a home should align with your life goals. If you're starting a family soon, planting your roots in a kid-friendly neighborhood with a great school district is usually a good reason to buy a house.

There's also something to be said about the pride of owning a home and having a place you can call yours — one that you can customize to your heart's desire.

© Copyright 2019 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Service Plan

I want to powerfully suggest that you set yourself up with a twice a year service for your HVAC.  Just like a regular service for your car it can keep your system running more efficiently and longer.  So call a local HVAC service company and get set up for an inspection and cleaning twice a year. As dull as that sounds, that should be enough, but I will go on.

The HVAC is the system that circulates your air (remember, real estate agent, not HVAC technician terms) throughout your house and hopefully heats it and cools it depending on the time of year.

Change the Filters

Your first job is changing the filters in the house on a regular basis, then having the experts come in and clean the other dirt and hair and gunk that collects on the various parts of the system, slowing the process.  Then the system gets overworked becoming less efficient and effective.

Why All The Concern?

In addition to the junk I have already talked about, bacteria can also start to build up in that moist hairy gunky mess.

The outside component of your HVAC system can also get clogged up. Of course it can, it is outside. If you have not looked at the outside unit it has a big fan that is pretty important to the operation.; If it gets clogged, or rusted, or broken, then forget it. And remember, if it is going to break down, it will happen at the worst times

Professionals suggest having the system serviced twice a year is sufficient to keep this marvel of the modern age working to keep us comfortable in our own homes.  Do as they suggest to keep the system working properly and efficiently. Do this and it will cost you less money in the long run.

Starting October 1, 2020 you will need to have the updated South Carolina license (REAL ID) in order to board a domestic or commercial flight, enter a secure federal building, or visit a military installation. The good news is that there is plenty of time in order to make the change, either online or in person. 

The bad news is that time flies.

Not everybody is eligible to purchase the new license online and therefore must go to a South Carolina DMV branch.  To check if you are eligible to purchase online or to find out what documents you must bring with you to get the license in person, go to this link: 

 New License Information  

Now if you do not fly with your license and use your passport then you would not have to get the new license. However, it will not take much of your time and will end up being more convenient after you have it.

Happy Traveling

When buying and selling real estate in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island SC you will probably have to deal with an HOA or POA.  An HOA is the Homeowners Association also referred to as a POA or Property Owners Association. When making a purchase it is important to find out what fees you will be paying on a yearly or monthly basis and what those fees are actually funding.

“Fees generally pay for the maintenance and improvements of common areas and amenities — such as pools, exercise rooms and clubhouses — and sometimes for things like social events, security and insurance.” - Nerdwallet  LINK.

When selling real estate there may be fees associated with the closing that are the seller’s responsibility unless negotiated away in the real estate purchase agreement.

When interacting with the HOA you will likely go through a management company that has the responsibility of enforcing the HOA rules and collecting the fees involved with the association.  Find out the contact for the management company and make sure you ask them what your responsibilities as a homeowner will entail prior to making your purchase. That way you can avoid any problems that may occur after you have already become a homeowner.

Ask your real estate agent to get you in touch with the association and the management company when figuring out where you are going to purchase.  Loving where you live also means understanding what you are responsible for monetarily and what rules you must follow.

Call me if you have any questions and Have a Great Day!