Charter One Realty Blog

How to Support Local Businesses on Black Friday

It has been a rough, interesting year for the Lowcountry's local shops (to say the least) and the rest of the world, but the holiday season is here! With Shop Small Saturday around the corner, we are looking for every possible opportunity to support our local businesses.

Even though we cannot gather in large groups like we normally would, we can still celebrate with our close family accordingly! That includes shopping for loved ones, making delicious food, and playing our favorite games with holiday music playing in the background. 

In an effort to spread the holiday cheer, make sure to include your community this season! It can be as easy as stopping by local the nursery for a poinsettia, shopping at the farmer’s market for your holiday meals, and…

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Bathroom Remodels We Love

They say Spring is the time of year most folks get an itch to remodel, but the truth is, freshening your space is ALWAYS in. Why not gift yourself a bit early this year with the bathroom remodel you’ve been wishing for? If you’re looking for some inspiration to design a master bath oasis, look no further. 

This article features some bathroom remodels done by local contractors because the talent and design of our Lowcountry professionals never cease to amaze us! Simply click on the links below the photos to visit their websites and see more of their work.

There is no doubt that money spent during a remodel goes a long way in the bathroom--it’s because buyers want a calming and comfortable place to shower off and feel good. We’re here to help you…

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Charter One Realty Voted Best Real Estate Company

We want to thank the community once again for naming Charter One Realty as the area's "Best Real Estate Company" for several years in a row. This recognition wouldn't be possible without your support! Many thanks to all who participated and cast their vote for us.

The agents at Charter One Realty are proud to call the Lowcountry home. Our Charter One Realty Agents live in the Lowcountry, raise their families here, work in our communities, and give back to those in need right here. Why is this important? We are proud to call our communities home and are dedicated to making the Lowcountry the very best that it can be.

Our dedication to the community and our clients has led us to be the #1 brokerage in the Lowcountry, conducting more business than…

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This Winter's Home-Selling Season May Be Hotter Than Ever

Historically, real estate activity in the Lowcountry slows during the winter months. Between the cold weather and the holidays, the housing market typically goes into a hibernation of sorts, with both buyers and sellers shelving any major real estate moves until spring.

However, this winter's real estate market is shaping up to be unlike any other before it. Contrary to what some may have feared, the fall and winter are slated to be an excellent time to sell a home. In fact, Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, predicts "it will be one of the best winter sales years ever."

What's driving these predictions for a strong winter market? Chalk it up to a perfect storm of low mortgage interest rates, sparse housing…

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Meet the Agent: Carol Wilson

Originally from Bowling Green, Kentucky, Carol Wilson received her bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University before moving to Hilton Head Island in 1975 where she raised her two sons. After two decades in property management and residential lending, Carol joins her son Jonathan to form The Wilson Group at Charter One Realty in Beaufort.

Known for her warm Lowcountry hospitality, Carol enjoys gardening and is an active member of St. Helena Parish Church in Beaufort.

Charter One Realty: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in real estate?

Carol Wilson: I have been in real estate related businesses for over 2 decades. The Lowcountry has the best there is to offer for lifestyle at any age and it is very fulfilling to see…

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Three Ways Low Inventory is a Win for Sellers

The number of houses for sale today is significantly lower than the high buyer activity in the current housing market. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

"There is no shortage of hopeful, potential buyers, but inventory is historically low."

When the demand for homes is higher than what’s available for sale, it’s a great time for homeowners to sell their house. Here are three ways low inventory can help you win if you’re ready to make a move this fall.

1.  Higher Prices

With so many more buyers in the market than homes available for sale, homebuyers are frequently entering into bidding wars for the houses they want to purchase. This buyer competition drives home prices up. As a…

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Real Estate is a Driving Force in the Economy

As the economy recovers from this year's health crisis, the housing market is playing a leading role in the turnaround. It's safe to say that what we call "home" is taking on a new meaning, causing many of us to consider buying or selling sooner rather than later. Housing, therefore, has thrived in an otherwise down year.

Today's high buyer demand combined with low housing inventory means we're seeing home prices appreciate at an above-average pace. This demand is being driven by those who want to take advantage of historically low mortgage rates. According to Freddie Mac:

"The record low mortgage rate environment is providing tangible support to the economy at a critical time, as housing continues to propel growth."

These factors are…

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4 Reasons Why the Election won't Dampen the Housing Market

Americans have spoken and the votes are still being tallied to decide who our President for the next four years. That decision will have a major impact on many aspects of life in this country, but the residential real estate market will not be one of them.

Analysts will try to measure the impact feasible changes in regulations might have on housing, the effect of a possible first-time buyer program, and any number of other situations based on who wins. The housing market, however, will remain strong for four reasons:

1.  Demand Is Strong among Millennials

The nation's largest generation began entering the housing market last year as they reached the age to marry and have children - two key drivers of homeownership. As the Wall Street…

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Best Thanksgiving Recipes for Small Gatherings

Let’s be honest - the holiday season looks a lot different this year. Not being able to gather the way we’d like to can put a damper on big thanksgiving plans. How do we make sure we still find the joys of the season, even when we can’t ALL be together? Well, we know one way: Food! 

We’re here to help you prepare for Thanksgiving with these classic recipes featuring delicious and unique twists.

Small gatherings with your immediate family and quarantine bubble may be the only option, but we still have lots to be thankful for when we gather around the table. Spice up your menu this year to add some fun to your season! 

Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole

We love this sweet potato dish because it has the flavors of fall, with an extra southern style…

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Meet the Agent: Jack Menzie

Jack Menzie has been in the real estate business for more than two decades, but in the relationship business for a lifetime! After several years with Realogy Corporating managing franchise sales for Coldwell Banker, Century 21, and ERA brands, the transition from corporate to general brokerage real estate sales was easy. Through his experiences, he realized the intricacies of the real estate transaction and the importance of exceeding client expectations.

Jack works closely with his clients as a trusted business partner and handles all the "heavy lifting" related to their real estate transaction. His clients have recognized Jack for his knowledge, transparency, creativity, understanding, and approach to finalizing the deal - to his client's…

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