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!

July 15, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - Hanna Lee Reid

Hanna Lee ReidBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is thrilled to introduce Hanna Lee Reid, a dynamic new addition to our team. With a rich and varied background, Hanna brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to her real estate career.

Hanna has spent the last twenty years living along the East Coast, embracing the diverse experiences each location offers. She is a proud mother of two grown sons and a delighted grandmother to a new grandson, a recent addition to her family that brings her immense joy.

Born in Seoul, Korea, Hanna's early years were filled with the vibrant culture of her birthplace until her family moved to Oklahoma when she was twelve. After five years in Oklahoma, her family relocated to California, enriching her life with new experiences and environments.

Although Hanna is relatively new to real estate, her interest in the field has long been longstanding. She initially obtained her real estate salesperson license in Florida, but her plans were put on hold due to her husband’s job transfer to Illinois. Despite this, her passion for real estate never diminished.

Before entering real estate, Hanna enjoyed two long-term careers that each lasted over a decade. Her first career was in the automotive wholesale industry with Hyundai Motors America, where she worked in their East Coast regional office. She then transitioned to telecommunications with KDDI, a parent company in Japan. Both careers provided her invaluable experiences, lifelong friendships, and a deep understanding of client relationships.

Hanna's connection to the Myrtle Beach area began with family vacations inspired by her husband's love for golf. These trips became cherished memories and fostered a deep appreciation for the area.

When choosing a real estate agency, Hanna was drawn to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living. Two years ago, she had the opportunity to meet Mr. Elliott and was deeply impressed by his family's commitment to the development of South Carolina. Additionally, meeting with Mr. Ron Jackson left her feeling confident and at ease, solidifying her decision to begin her real estate career with us.

Hanna Lee Reid is excited to bring her diverse experiences, passion for real estate, and dedication to client relationships to the Myrtle Beach area. She looks forward to helping clients find their perfect homes along the Grand Strand. She is committed to providing exceptional service through Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living.

Posted in New Agent
July 12, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - Laura Nobles

Laura Nobles Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is excited to introduce Laura Nobles, our newest real estate team member. With a rich history in the community and a deep passion for homes and property investment, Laura brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her new role.

Laura grew up in Loris, SC, and has lived in this beautiful area. Although she is new to the real estate industry, her interest in homes and property investment has been a long-standing passion. For years, Laura has spent her free time browsing online listings, dreaming of helping others find their perfect homes.

Before embarking on her real estate journey, Laura owned and operated a successful salon for over 25 years, working as a hairstylist. Additionally, she has run a memorial jewelry business called Southern Charm from her home for the past three years, creating custom pieces such as stainless and cast resin jewelry and shadowboxes from dried flowers from special events. This background in business ownership has equipped Laura with exceptional customer service skills and a strong work ethic.

Laura's love for the Myrtle Beach area is profound. Having lived here her entire life, she appreciates the region's moderate climate, beautiful beaches, and the genuine hospitality of its quaint small towns. Her travels have reinforced her belief that this area offers the best of all worlds, from sprawling farmlands to nearby mountains and lakes.

When choosing a real estate agency, Laura knew Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living was the perfect fit. She has fond memories of BHGRE Elliott Coastal Living as a community staple for over fifty years. Owning a business taught her that enduring success comes from excellent customer service and knowledgeable staff. Laura is committed to offering exceptional service and expertise to her clients, and she knows she can achieve that at Elliott. She thrives in a family-like business setting and is confident that BHGRE Elliott Coastal Living will provide just that.

Laura's dedication to continuous improvement and her deep roots in the community sets her apart from other real estate agents. She has spent countless hours and resources honing her skills in her previous career, and she understands the importance of staying up-to-date in a constantly evolving industry. With over fifty years of residency in the area, Laura possesses invaluable local knowledge that newcomers may not have. This insight allows her to offer clients a unique perspective and unparalleled expertise.

Laura's favorite part of being a real estate agent is caring for people. She genuinely loves helping clients buy their dream homes or sell their existing properties to move to new desired locations. A happy client is the ultimate proof of a well-done job for Laura.

Her biggest motivation is excellence in customer care. Her joy in helping others drives her to be the best in her industry. Laura looks forward to growing with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living, becoming part of the family, and making new friends while sharing the joys of new clients.

Join us in welcoming Laura Nobles to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living! We're excited to see the positive impact she'll bring to our team and the community.

Posted in New Agent
June 14, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - David Kalil

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is excited to welcome David Kalil to our team of dedicated real estate professionals. David brings a wealth of experience, tenacity, and a deep commitment to helping others, making him a valuable addition to our family.

 

From Boston Suburbs to Myrtle Beach

David grew up in the suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts, in the city known as The Town of Methuen. His journey from Methuen to Myrtle Beach is a testament to his adventurous spirit and confidence in his ability to succeed. Moving to Myrtle Beach sight unseen, David knew he would find success in this vibrant community.

 

A Career Transition Fueled by Passion

David has worked as a realtor for the past three years, bringing his diverse background and rich experiences to the real estate field. Before becoming a realtor, David drove a cement mixer for ten years, giving him a unique familiarity with the Horry and Georgetown areas. Additionally, as a master mechanic with a business degree, David has a solid foundation that significantly benefits his real estate career.

 

Choosing Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living

David was drawn to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living because of its reputable name, prime location, and low fees. His decision was further solidified after meeting with Sandra Jimison, BIC, who reinforced his confidence in joining the right agency.

 

A Tenacious and Client-Focused Approach

What sets David apart from other real estate agents is his unwavering tenacity. He is determined to succeed in this field and is committed to providing exceptional service to his clients. David's favorite part of being a real estate agent is the opportunity to help others, guiding them through one of the most important decisions of their lives.

 

Motivated by Progress and Forward Movement

David is motivated by the satisfaction of knowing he is progressing and moving forward in life. He is eager to establish himself firmly in the local real estate market and continue positively impacting his clients' lives.

 

Looking Forward to a Bright Future

As the newest member of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living, David Kalil is excited about the future. He looks forward to building strong relationships with clients, helping them find their dream homes, and contributing to the vibrant Myrtle Beach community.

 

Reach out to David Kalil

Posted in New Agent
May 27, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - Teresa Polt

Teresa PoltWe are delighted to introduce Teresa Polt, the newest addition to our team at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living. With an impressive background and a heartfelt dedication to helping others, Teresa brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our office.

Growing up in Baltimore, MD, Teresa developed a strong foundation in customer service and financial expertise through a successful career in the banking industry, spanning from 1982 to 2005. However, the personal experience of working with a realtor inspired a significant career change. Wanting to make a real difference in people's lives, Teresa transitioned into real estate and has been a dedicated realtor for 19 years.

After living in several states, Teresa chose Myrtle Beach as her home. She felt an immediate connection to the area during a vacation and knew it was the perfect place to settle down. This sense of belonging and the community spirit of Myrtle Beach further fueled Teresa's passion for real estate.

Choosing Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living was based on respect and alignment of values. In conversations with Ron Jackson, Teresa appreciated the respect shown for individual agents and their businesses. Ron's genuine interest in understanding what Teresa sought in a company and ensuring a good fit made BHGRE stand out among the many real estate agencies along the Grand Strand.

A commitment to honesty, trust, and integrity sets Teresa apart from other agents. She believes in truly connecting with clients, understanding their needs, and working collaboratively to achieve their goals. Combined with nearly two decades of experience, this approach provides a solid foundation for success as a beach real estate agent.

Teresa's favorite part of the job is meeting new people and helping them navigate their real estate journeys with minimal stress. The motivation to make a difference in people's lives drives her daily.

We are thrilled to welcome Teresa Polt to our team and look forward to the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in the Myrtle Beach community.

Posted in Realtors
April 9, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - Lucy Bruno

Lucy BrunoWelcome to the team, Lucy Bruno! Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living is thrilled to introduce Lucy Bruno, a seasoned real estate agent passionate about helping people find their dream homes. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Lucy brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients.

Originally hailing from High Point, NC, Lucy's journey into real estate was sparked by her love for meeting new people and her fascination with building structures. Before venturing into real estate, Lucy honed her skills as a paralegal at a law firm in Tampa, FL, gaining valuable experience that she now applies to real estate transactions.

Her extensive background and deep market understanding sets Lucy apart from other agents. She takes pride in personally getting to know her clients and understanding their dreams and aspirations for their new homes.

Lucy's favorite aspect of real estate is matching her clients with the perfect property that fulfills their desires. With Lucy, it's not just about buying or selling a house – it's about embarking on a journey towards an ideal living space.

Lucy chose to join Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living because of its warm and friendly environment. This makes it the perfect place to continue her passion for real estate and help people achieve their homeownership dreams.

Posted in Realtors
March 28, 2024

Meet Our Realtor - Anthony Guarino

Anthony GuarinoAnthony Guarino, a fresh face in Myrtle Beach real estate's bustling world, brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong work ethic that sets him apart from the crowd. Born and raised in Colchester, CT, Anthony's journey into real estate is fueled by a passion for helping people find their dream homes in the sunny paradise of Myrtle Beach.

Having been interested in real estate for the past few years, Anthony leaped at a successful career in commercial LED lighting to pursue his dream. "I've been working for a family business, doing commercial LED lighting jobs, for about eight years," he explains. "But real estate has always been in my mind."

What drew Anthony to the Myrtle Beach area? "The weather, of course!" he exclaims with a grin. But it wasn't just the sunshine that caught his attention. Anthony was attracted to Better Homes and Garden Real Estate Elliott Coastal Living (BHGRE) for more than just the coastal charm. "My first experience with BHGRE was very welcoming," he shares. "I feel that BHGRE is there to help agents move forward to be the best agents they can be, to grow and add to their company name."

One of Anthony's greatest strengths lies in his honest, hardworking personality. "I believe my honest, hardworking personality will allow me to build a strong reputation and grow as an agent," he says confidently. "I pride myself on the work that I do, and finding solutions to problems is a strong suit of mine."

Anthony's eyes light up when asked about his favorite part of being a real estate agent. "I am most excited about learning and meeting new people to grow my skills and circle of influence," he says. "Learning and setting goals to complete always motivate me to keep setting goals higher and higher to broaden my skills and knowledge."

Reach out to Anthony today for all your real estate needs in the Myrtle Beach area! 

 

Posted in Realtors
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