As seasons change, so do our wardrobes. The end of one season provides the perfect opportunity to clear out the old and make space for the new–ensuring your closet is not only organized but also aligns with your current lifestyle and preferences.  But the change of seasons isn’t the only time to consider a closet purge. Another excellent time to purge your closet is when you get ready to sell your home. Instead of packing away more items than necessary–get rid of them before you move. A new home allows for a start fresh, so don’t bring anything you’re better off without.  This g ..read more

In today's world, the concept of work has dramatically shifted, with more individuals and businesses embracing the flexibility of working from home. This change has not only redefined our work-life balance but also the physical spaces within our homes. A well-organized and functional at-home workstation has become a non-negotiable feature for many homeowners and home buyers. So whether you're a remote worker or staging a home to sell, let’s guide you through setting up an efficient, stylish home office that maximizes your productivity or appeals to potential home buyers. Let's explore some ..read more

Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments, it’s tough to keep up with daily chores—let alone larger seasonal tasks. (Think of the pollen season we get in Charleston, South Carolina! ) The effort is worthwhile, however. A sanitary environment can keep you and your family healthier by minimizing your exposure to germs and allergens.(1) Plus, researchers have found that organized, uncluttered homes have quantifiable mental health benefits, too, including reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, an ..read more

The Difference Between Renting and Buying a Home... The process of buying a home can seem daunting. For many potential home buyers, the work-versus-reward can be hard to fathom and lead to indecisiveness.  In my experience, homeownership greatly benefits everyone but a very few people. Owning your own home builds wealth and puts you on a path to better financial security. So let’s keep it simple. Here are 3 important factors to consider when deciding to purchase a home versus renting one. Factor #1: Buying a Home Avoids Rising Rents When You Rent: Your monthly payment generally goes up ea ..read more

Maintaining a pristine kitchen extends beyond spotless countertops and gleaming appliances; it's crucial not to overlook the hygiene and cleanliness of your kitchen drain and garbage disposal.  Here is a comprehensive—but quick and easy—step-by-step guide to ensure these often-forgotten kitchen components remain clean and functional. Whether you're dealing with lingering odors or just aiming for a thorough clean, here’s what you need to effectively clear and freshen up your drain and garbage disposal. What You Will Need: Flashlight Rubber Gloves Baking Soda Lemon White Vinegar Hot Water ..read more

Photo by @viince_r Home design trends for 2024... One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design, coastal influence, or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas.  Even so, it’s always smart to think about the long-term impact those decisions might have on your home’s value. Choosing over-personalized or unpopular materials and finishes—especially for your area or region—could make your home less appealing to future buyers. And selecting out ..read more

I found this article from NAR fascinating... More homeowners have become pet owners since the pandemic, and homeowners are showing a willingness to move for their pet. In fact, 43% of pet owners say they’d be willing to move to accommodate their pet, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. What’s more, 68% of pet owners surveyed by realtor.com® say they would pass on the perfect home if it didn’t meet their pet’s needs. (READ the whole article here: https://magazine.realtor/daily-news/2021/11/04/pets-influence-the-choice-to-move) The Bottom Line Don't underestimate the value of sp ..read more

South of Broad Street, Charleston, South Carolina. Is fall a good time to sell or buy a home? This is a common question we hear, and it’s often fueled by a common misconception. It’s true that home sales pick up in the spring and summer. They also tend to calm a bit in the fall and winter, but that doesn’t mean buying or selling a home in the final months of the year will have a negative outcome. In fact, fall and winter might be ideal timing. There’s never really a BAD time to buy or sell a home. In this market, there’s always demand for quality, well-maintained homes that are priced well—es ..read more

The Cigar Factory in Charleston, South Carolina. Early virtual client meetings while on the move.⚡️☕️ I actually like the flexibility of virtual meetings. I know “Zoom” isn't everyone's cup of tea (or coffee, in this case). But the ability to connect with busy or out of town clients — on a more personal level — has allowed us to better understand their needs and help them meet their goals. There are things that email, text, and even phone calls can't always accurately convey — nuances such as tone, posture, and facial cues are all a part of human interaction. Too often these are lost in less ..read more

Mortgage rates have been on a roller coaster ride this year, rising and falling amid inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty. And even the experts are divided when it comes to predicting where rates are headed next.(1) This climate has been unsettling for some Charleston area homebuyers and sellers. However, with proper planning, you can work toward qualifying for the best mortgage rates available today – and open up the possibility of refinancing at a lower rate in the future. How does a lower mortgage rate save you money? According to Trading Economics, the average new mortgage size ..read more