Area Real Estate News & Market Trends

Our blog is a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. We care about the community and want to help you find your place there. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

March 8, 2024

Making the Perfect Offer

OfferAre you ready to buy your dream home in Myrtle Beach or the surrounding area? Finding a perfect house for you and your family can be difficult. Once you have found the ideal place, the next step is to make your offer. There are ways to make an offer and stand out from other buyers. You will be competing against multiple buyers for your dream home, and there are ways to make your offer the one the seller will accept. Feel confident with your offer by following one of the suggestions below. 

Go Above the Asking Price

If you are in a multiple-bid situation, you want to go above the asking price versus making a low-ball offer. Don’t let this thought overwhelm you. Going above lets you get the seller’s attention; they will know you are a serious buyer. You don’t have to go too much above the asking price, and sometimes, it only takes $2,000-3,000 above the asking price to make a difference. Ensure your offer is aligned with the home’s value and large enough to get the seller’s attention.

A Strong Earnest Money Deposit

An earnest money deposit is the money submitted as a buyer to show the seller how committed you are to purchasing a home. It is usually required by sellers so that they are protected in case you, the buyer, back out and they have to put the house back on the market.  Even if an earnest money deposit is not required, making the offer makes you look like a serious buyer, and you will stand out again.

Make A Larger Down Payment

Making a larger down payment is another way to show sellers how serious you are as a buyer and shows you are in an excellent financial situation. It also shows that you are responsible and stable when you make a larger down payment than necessary. Indeed, don’t go above your means, but choose the larger down payment if you are in the position.

Escalation Clause

An escalation clause is an offer you submit to a buyer to show you are willing to increase your initial asking offer if a more prominent offer comes in. You can set the maximum price. Sometimes the seller would instead make a counteroffer or up their asking price before accepting an escalation clause. Hire a lawyer to write the escalation clause if this is an option you consider.

Cash Offer

A cash offer shows you are serious and is also a way to expedite the buying process. Paying cash also keeps business between the buyer and the seller, leaving out financial lenders. The buyer and seller both feel more in control with cash payment. Paying with cash will give the seller the confidence they need to choose you as their buyer.

Pay Attention to Details

Making sure your offer is complete may seem too simple, but the truth is that details are often missed and result in an incomplete offer. Information about the purchase agreement may be omitted, and disclosures may be missing. Pay attention to the details to ensure your offer is complete. If not, a seller may not bother with your offer and pay attention to complete ones. With multiple offers, you want to ensure you have done everything possible to feel confident about your offer.

Be Prepared

When making an offer on your dream house, you want to act fast and ensure you take the necessary steps to make your offer stand out. Be prepared. One way to do this is to be pre-approved for a mortgage. When you’re preapproved, you’ll know exactly how much money you have to work with and how much you can afford, and it provides you credibility. 

Contact one of our real estate agents today at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living if you are searching for your dream home. You will receive all the support you need and more to make your dream a reality.

Posted in Real Estate Tips
Jan. 3, 2024

Safeguard Your Home with Smart Products

Smart Home ProductsSmart products are helping families to keep their homes safer than ever before. Smart-home technology is becoming more accessible and affordable. Quickly turn off lights, lock doors, and use voice commands and mobile apps. Set up a smart home app on your Smartphone or tablet to help you stay connected and protect your home. You can set up smart locks and smart lights as well. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, smart home technologies contribute to the smooth and efficient functioning of the electric grid. Each innovative product listed below is worth under $300 worth every penny because you are purchasing a way to keep your abode safer and priceless peace of mind. These smart products help you protect your home and help you protect your online activities, your children, and your car.

LG Smart Security Solution

The LG Smart Security Solution is an all-in-one camera, motion tracker, microphone, and speaker. Setting up the camera takes minutes. You download an app to access a live feed of what is happening at your front door or wherever you set the camera. You can wall-mount the camera or set it up wherever you please. ADT Home Security powers LG Smart Security Solution, and while the live view is free, you must subscribe to ADT to store and retrieve video. It is $9.99/month to access the last seven days of footage or $29.99/month for the previous 30 days.

Skybell HD WIFI Video Doorbell

Purchasing the Skybell HD WIFI Video Doorbell is like hiring a security guard to stand by your door. Analyze guests without answering the door in person. The WIFI doorbell offers 1080p video, free online video storage, and on-demand video. Receive notifications whenever the doorbell is pressed. This doorbell can also be connected to Amazon Alexa, so you can take pictures or record videos using voice commands. The Ring Doorbell is popular, but this video doorbell is worth looking into to assist with your home security needs.

Kwikset Kevo Smart Lock (2nd Generation)

This smart lock provides complete front door security. There are multiple ways to get into your home when purchasing this lock. Options include a key fob, cell phone, or a standard key. You may need other people to access your home to babysit, water your plants, or feed the dog. You can simply send this person an ekey, which provides limited access over time. Feel free to look into the August Smart Lock, which easily fits over a standard deadbolt and connects to Apple’s Homekit.

Kuna Light Fixture

The Kuna Light Fixture is a great safety purchase because it appears to be a typical outdoor light fixture, but little do visitors or intruders realize that it has an HD camera on the bottom. You can even chat with unknown visitors without answering the door. The light fixture also functions as a two-way communicator.

Nest Protect Fire & Carbon Monoxide Detector

The Nest Protect Fire & Carbon Monoxide Detector is popular for its easy setup and installation. You can also set up a family plan; if something is wrong, you and everyone on your plan will receive a notification. If the detector goes off accidentally, it’s easy to turn off. Open the app to shut off the detector. The days of waving a towel in front of a traditional smoke detector are slimmer as smart technology grows.

Securifi Almond 3 Smart Router

Your house isn’t the only thing that needs protecting these days. You must also protect your information from internet scammers and keep your children from dangerous websites. This smart router helps you to automate and control internet usage. You can receive a notification whenever your child gets on WIFI. Have your children had too much screen time for the day? Easily turn off WIFI on all devices by setting up a kids' group. This router can be connected to Amazon Echo and offers an IoT security plan that stops devices from controlling your house. The program also scans all devices in your network for botnet and malware vulnerabilities and monitors outbound traffic to detect any zombie devices. Also, receive notifications whenever suspicious or vulnerable device activity is detected.

Withings Home Baby Bundle

This monitor offers much more than a traditional baby monitor. The Withings Home Baby Monitor has 24-hour video surveillance. The bundle can turn on a nightlight and play soothing music when your baby wakes up during the night. You can also push a button on the app to talk to your child from another room. You have enough to worry about as a new parent. Ease your mind by purchasing this baby bundle or help parents to be by gifting it to them.  

Samsung SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit

The Samsung Home Monitoring Kit keeps your home locked down in many ways. The SmartThings Hub has a multipurpose motion sensor, two window and door sensors, and a SmartThings outlet. You can turn appliances on or off remotely. This device allows you to track who is home and when. There is also the option of adding other things from the SmartThings catalog.

Philips Hue Lighting System

The Philips Hue Lighting System is simple to automate and hooks into Amazon Echo. You can control your lighting to suit your needs. Have the living room light come on at sundown, or turn on the outdoor lights when you pull out of the driveway. Easily set your parameters from the app. Although smart lightbulbs cost more money than traditional ones, adding this safety feature to your security setup can be worth the price.

Automatic Pro Car Adapter

The need for safety expands further than your home. Purchase a smart sensor for your car to keep you safe on the road. This sensor tells you when your car is parked where it shouldn’t be, and you can also keep tabs on your vehicle’s location from your smartphone. Keep up with your vehicle from wherever and whenever from your smartphone. The adapter plugs into the OBD-II port, the same place your mechanic plugs into to check your onboard diagnostics. This adapter also provides mileage tracking and crash alerts.

Find the perfect Myrtle Beach smart home or make it smart with these tips from an agent at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living.

Posted in Real Estate Tips
Nov. 6, 2023

Meet Our Sales Manager at our Pawleys Island Office – Sandra Jimison

Sandra JimisonBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is thrilled to introduce the newest member of our realtor® team: Sandra Jimison.

For the past four decades, Sandra and her husband have had the privilege of calling the enchanting South Carolina coast their home. Their coastal adventure has taken them on a remarkable journey, spanning from the pristine shores of Hilton Head to the vibrant heart of Myrtle Beach. However, their story begins in the charming town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Sandra’s professional journey began in a completely different field—she initiated her career as a licensed optician. She thrived in the optical industry for many years, helping individuals see the world more clearly. It was a fulfilling and rewarding career that instilled in her the importance of detail, precision, and the joy of assisting others.

Life, as it often does, took an unexpected turn, leading Sandra and her husband down a new path. Fueled by their shared passion for homes and an innate desire for transformation, they purchased and renovated multiple properties. This experience was more than just a series of house projects; it catalyzed a significant shift in Sandra’s career trajectory.

In 2001, almost on a whim, Sandra made a choice that would forever alter the course of her professional life. She decided to obtain her real estate license, unaware of the profound impact this decision would have on her future. It was a spontaneous move, driven by curiosity and a simple thought: “Why not try?” Little did she know that this seemingly casual decision would ignite a deep-seated passion within her, ultimately transforming it into a full-fledged, fulfilling career in real estate.

Today, Sandra is embarking on an exciting new chapter of her journey as a proud member of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate (BHGRE) Elliott Coastal Living team, based in the picturesque Pawleys Island. This place holds a special place in her heart. The decision to join BHGRE was driven by a shared commitment to integrity, honesty, and unwavering dedication to providing their clients with the utmost care and attention.

We welcome Sandra as the recently appointed sales manager of the South Strand and our Pawleys Island Office, where her expertise and passion for real estate will undoubtedly drive our team to new heights of excellence.

Don’t hesitate to contact Sandra Jimison for all your real estate needs. She’s here to guide you on your journey to finding the perfect property and making your real estate dreams a reality. Contact Sandra today!

Posted in Realtors
Sept. 28, 2022

Meet Our Realtor - Kimberly Neal

Kimberly Neal Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is delighted to welcome the newest realtor® on the team: Kimberly Neal. Kimberly has only been a real estate agent for three months but is well on her way to making a big splash at BHGRE Elliott Coastal Living. Ready to thrive in her new career, Kim is also prepared to help people find their perfect home in the Myrtle Beach area. 

Kimberly grew up in Charleston, West Virginia, but has been vacationing in Myrtle Beach for years. Before becoming a real estate agent, she worked as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. She received her degree in Science with an emphasis on Nuclear Medicine Technology and worked in the field for 37 years. Kimberly worked hard and chose Myrtle Beach as the place for her and her family to visit for much-needed vacations. They loved Myrtle Beach so much that they purchased a summer cottage as a second vacation home. When it came time to retire, Kimberly made Myrtle Beach her permanent home and relocated to the area. She couldn’t stay away and now shares her love of the beach while assisting others in finding their dream house.

For Kimberly, success as a realtor® is when she helps others find a home. Kimberly knows there is a difference between a house and a home. Kimberly feels at home in Myrtle Beach and strives to help her clients feel just as much at home here as she does by assisting them in finding their dream house.

When asked what assets she believes will help her be a successful realtor®, Kimberly replied, “The compassion to help people find a home, not just a house! I truly have the desire to help others. I believe clients will see the kindness and willingness within me.”

Although new to the business, Kimberly puts her all into her work. She strives to add value to each client’s journey of finding a house. She will answer any question, and if she doesn’t have the answer, Kimberly will be sure to find the correct answer.  Helping others is her primary motivation. Aside from assisting people to find a home, Kimberly’s favorite part about being a real estate agent is the chance to help clients decorate.

Kimberly says, “I love to decorate and would love to share opinions about décor if necessary.”

Kimberly chose BHGRE because she believes it is the best place to learn and thrive as a realtor®. BHGRE has the resources, including an entire team of motivated and experienced real estate agents, to help Kimberly become proficient in her new career. Ultimately, Kimberly is excited to be at BHGRE, work with the team, and see her future as a realtor®.

If you are ready to buy or sell real estate in the Grand Strand area, remember Kimberly Neal and the other real estate pros at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living.

BHGRE has served the community for over 60 years. We use the latest technology and innovative marketing techniques to meet your real estate needs. No matter where you are in the buying or selling process, we can help.

 

Posted in Realtors
July 1, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Jay Faulkenberry

Jay FaulkenberryThe Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living office keeps on growing! Here’s some background on the latest realtor to join our incredible staff: Jay Faulkenberry.

Jay is a South Carolina native raised in Lexington, about a 150-mile trek from the beach. He always had fond memories of the beach as a kid on family vacations. The desire to be close to the ocean and the excellent standard of living convinced him to relocate to the Grand Strand.

“The beach is therapeutic and spiritual for me. The restaurants, attractions, shopping, and good school system are bonuses for my family,” said Jay.

Before becoming a realtor®, Jay managed various retail businesses for about 15 years and then transitioned into vehicle fleet management with the State of South Carolina for ten years.

“My expertise in management and customer service, as well as the experience of buying and selling multiple homes, translate well to helping my clients navigate buying and selling properties. I hope my enthusiasm for beach living spreads to everyone I meet,” he said.

A company like Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is a name you can trust.

Posted in Realtors
April 1, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Dana Wilson

Dana Wilson

A longtime lover of the Grand Strand, Dana grew up in Hamlet, NC. Her fascination with Myrtle Beach inspired her to move and train as a real estate agent. Dana spent 30 years in the water tank maintenance industry, working alongside business owners, engineers, and vendors.

Dana is ready to expand on her love for beach life and help others find the perfect place to call “home.” “I have vacationed in Myrtle Beach my whole life. I love all that the area has to offer,” she said.

Dana’s expertise is rooted in her passion for helping others. As a Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living team member, she is ready to guide current and future owners to achieve their real estate goals. “I love working with people, learning new things, and using my knowledge to help others. I am willing to do whatever it takes to be successful,” she said.

As a resident of the Grand Strand, Dana is familiar with the city's landscape and hopes to provide valuable insight to her clients. She hopes to show others everything that makes Myrtle Beach a great place to live.

For over 60 years, Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living has been the ultimate resource for those seeking real estate help. Our team of professionals is here to help navigate you through the process.

Posted in Realtors
March 22, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Stephanie Hudson

Stephanie HudsonWe value every person on our team as a family member in our vast community of realtors. So when a team member decides to move across the country, our company is always willing to greet them with open arms. Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living family is thrilled to welcome a new but familiar face: Stephanie Hudson.

Born on the West Coast of Florida, Stephanie most recently lived in Texas as a Better Homes Gardens Real Estate realtor® before calling the Grand Strand “home.”

However, Stephanie has had a long, colorful career in various positions within the home industry. Her previous roles in customer relations, project management, design, and property consulting helped her gain relevant skills that translated well into real estate. Stephanie switched to realty in January 2018 when she chose to work for Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living. “There is no better company to work for, and they have the highest standards in the industry,” she said.

Regarding her strengths as a real estate agent, Stephanie is determined to help their clients see the overall vision of their property and strives to the best of her ability to specialize in Home Readiness Strategies.

Her interior design background is handy when helping her clients create a vision. “I love all things design and architecture. I can see the beauty in every home.”

Next to helping her clients market their property, Stephanie works hard to make the real estate process quick and painless. To her, it’s all about working behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition.

Our representatives love working for us as much as we love having them on our team. When you choose a Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living Realtor®, you stand behind our mission of providing an excellent real estate experience.

Posted in Realtors
March 18, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Amanda Flynn

Amanda FlynnAs part of this ever-growing community, it fills us with joy when we witness a valued member of our city add new skills to their repertoire that will help many people in the long term. Therefore, we could not be more excited to introduce you to our newest associate at Better Homes Gardens Real Estate, Elliott Coastal Living: Amanda Flynn.

Amanda has called the Grand Strand “home” since her family decided to open a new business venture in 2001. She then relocated from Charlotte, North Carolina, to help them on their path to success at Flynn’s Irish Tavern.

The business surpassed their expectations, and Amanda quickly settled into her new home in North Myrtle Beach. For nearly two decades, Amanda and her family have served patrons of the Grand Strand with delicious eats and drinks.

Recently, Amanda pivoted from being a local business owner to expanding her skills in the real estate sector.

Amanda’s skills as a business owner have translated well into her new role as a realtor®. Her determination is rooted in helping clients find the home that best fits their needs. She’s highly knowledgeable about the community and its residents.

“After spending two decades running a business in North Myrtle Beach, I have developed many contacts, both local and out of state. I am remarkably familiar with the county and surrounding areas,” said Amanda.

For over 60 years, our Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living team has been dedicated to helping others find the beach homes or condos of their dreams. Realtors®, like Amanda, are ready to take the call and serve you to their greatest extent.

Posted in Realtors
March 8, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Amy Hawkins

Amy HawkinsIn a year of uncertainty, we are constantly amazed at how our family of realtors continues to grow. At Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living, we strive to create an ever-growing team with the best and brightest realtors the coastal region offers. Therefore, we are overjoyed introducing you to the newest member: Amy Hawkins.

Originally from Saginaw, Michigan, Amy called California home for many years. It wasn’t until 2002 that she made the cross-country journey to Little River. Amy was instantly drawn to the community's coastal scenery and charming atmosphere. She said, “I knew we had found our forever home.”

Amy knows a thing or two about having a solid work ethic. She was previously employed in the food and beverage industry for numerous years, leading to a managerial position at Hilton.

She recently transitioned to the world of real estate after deciding to retire her kitchen apron, so to speak, and learn the ins and outs of the field. Amy has always felt a calling to become a realtor®, saying she is thrilled by the opportunity to help others find their dream home.

In Amy’s eyes, honesty is crucial to making any relationship work. “I believe in doing things the right way,” she said. Amy is devoted to guiding her clients every step of the way and ensuring that the process is quick and easy.

“Whether buying or selling, it’s important to me that you understand the aspects of your real estate sale,” she said.

Her passion and charismatic nature make Amy a real go-getter that any client would be lucky to work with.

Rest assured that our team is backed by individuals like Amy, who are ready to serve you.

Our mission is rooted in providing everyone with the tools necessary to find their little corner of paradise. Reach out to us today and see what makes us stand out against the rest.

Posted in Realtors
Feb. 12, 2021

Meet Our Realtor - Joanne McPoland

Joanne McPolandAt Better Homes Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living, we are always excited to have the opportunity to welcome a new realtor® into our ever-growing family of real estate professionals. Today, with great pleasure, we introduce the most recent addition to our team: Joanne McPoland.

Raised in Long Island, NY, Joanne was first attracted to the Grand Strand by the low cost of living, year-round warm weather, the 60-mile stretch of beach, and world-class golfing.

“After growing up in New York,” Joanne said, “the southern charm of this stunning oceanfront community felt like a little slice of coastal paradise.”

Before receiving her realtor’s® license in September 2019, Joanne spent more than 30 years working in customer service across various fields, including retail, technology, and medicine.

Now, as a licensed realtor® with BHGRE Elliott Coastal Living, Joanne will use her vast talents and passion to assist the people of her adopted community with all their real estate needs.

Above all else, Joanne always puts the needs of her clients first.

We asked Joanne what motivates her. Joanne responded, “I’ve always been driven: one governed by an unyielding need to succeed and an unquenchable passion for helping others. Nothing motivates me more than being able to use my skills to help others achieve their goals.”

Later, we asked Joanne what strengths she had to offer to her clients and the BHGRE Elliott Coast Living family.

Joanne said, “ I believe my unbounded enthusiasm, coupled with my extensive customer service experience and backed up by the resources of the BHGRE Elliott Coastal Living brand, make me an invaluable asset towards any would-be property owner’s home-buying search.”

So, if you are looking to buy or sell real estate in the Grand Strand, remember Joanne McPoland and the local real estate pros at Better Homes and Garden Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living.

For over 60 years, our friendly team of real estate professionals has proudly served the people of the Grand Strand with all their real estate needs. Using the latest technology and most innovative marketing techniques, we guarantee that our dedicated real estate professionals will find you the property of your dreams.

Posted in Realtors