Jeff Cook Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Columbiahttps://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/Copyright JeffCookRealEstate.com2024-02-02T13:46:04-07:00tag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:18630Local Weekend Getaways in South Carolina<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Untitled_design.jpg" width="940" height="788" />
South Carolina, a state known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and southern hospitality, offers a plethora of weekend getaway options for those seeking a break from the daily grind. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, South Carolina has something for everyone. Join us as we explore some of the best local weekend getaways in the Palmetto State.
Charleston: A Blend of History and Southern Charm
Known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, Charleston is a perfect destination for a weekend retreat. Stroll through the historic district, visit plantations like Boone Hall or Magnolia, and indulge in the renowned Lowcountry cuisine at local restaurants. Don't miss a relaxing carriage ride or a boat tour to take in the city's charm from a different perspective.
Greenville: A Hidden Gem in the Upstate
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is a delightful surprise for those seeking a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. Explore Falls Park on the Reedy, a picturesque oasis in the heart of downtown, and take a stroll along the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The city also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries and theaters waiting to be discovered.
Myrtle Beach: Sun, Sand, and Entertainment
For those craving a classic beach getaway, Myrtle Beach is the go-to destination. With its pristine sandy shores, a lively boardwalk, and an abundance of family-friendly activities, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. Enjoy water sports, take a spin on the SkyWheel, or catch a live show at one of the entertainment theaters in the area.
Hilton Head Island: Serenity on the Coast
If you're in search of a more tranquil seaside escape, Hilton Head Island provides a serene atmosphere with its pristine beaches, bike paths, and world-class golf courses. Explore the island's natural beauty at the Sea Pines Forest Preserve or indulge in a relaxing spa day. Don't forget to savor fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Columbia: Capital City Delights
As the state capital, Columbia offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the South Carolina State Museum, stroll through the historic Congaree Vista district, and take a walk along the scenic Riverwalk. For nature enthusiasts, the Congaree National Park, with its ancient hardwood forest and diverse wildlife, is a must-visit destination.
Folly Beach: Laid-Back Island Vibes
For a laid-back coastal experience, head to Folly Beach. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and quirky charm, Folly Beach is a haven for surfers, kayakers, and those looking to unwind. Explore the iconic Folly Beach Pier, sample fresh seafood at local eateries, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Center Street.
South Carolina, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a myriad of weekend getaway options for every type of traveler. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Charleston, the scenic beauty of the Upstate, or the coastal allure of Myrtle Beach, the Palmetto State is sure to provide an unforgettable escape. Pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that await in South Carolina's local weekend getaways.2023-12-06T12:15:00-07:002024-02-02T13:46:04-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:16102Jeff Cook Real Estate Highlights 2023 Top Agents of Quarter 1<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_03_23.jpg" width="4671" height="2633" alt="From left to right: Heidi Schaefer, Brandon Garon, Whitney Hall, Clayton Hall, Nancy Walsh" />
Jeff Cook Real Estate is pleased to announce the outstanding achievements of its top agents in the first quarter of 2023. These agents have demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and expertise in the real estate industry, and have exceeded expectations in their sales and customer service efforts. With their exceptional skills and commitment to excellence, these agents have helped countless clients achieve their real estate goals and have contributed significantly to the success of Jeff Cook Real Estate. We are proud to recognize their hard work and dedication and look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.
The Hall Group: Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Clayton and Whitney, the dynamic duo of the Hall Group at Jeff Cook Real Estate, have not only excelled in their careers but have also created a beautiful life together. Clayton, originally from Vero Beach, FL, attended Florida State University, while Whitney, hailing from Columbia, SC, graduated from the College of Charleston. They joined Jeff Cook Real Estate in Mt Pleasant in 2017 and hit it off immediately. After being friends for a year, they started dating in 2018, got married in 2021, and are now the proud parents of a 6-month-old baby girl, Sawyer, and a 6-year-old dog, Hudson. As agents, Clayton and Whitney have helped over 175 families buy and sell real estate in the past 5 and a half years. They credit their success to the family-like environment at Jeff Cook Real Estate, where everyone is supportive and willing to help at a moment's notice. However, their biggest accomplishment so far is joining together as a husband and wife team and forming the Hall Group, where they have found a system that allows them to better serve their clients while balancing family time. Contact Whitney by calling 843-428-7578 or emailing <a>whitney.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>. Contact Clayton by calling 843-396-3773 or by emailing <a>clayton.hall@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Brandon Garon: Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Originally from Southern California, Brandon relocated to Lexington, South Carolina in 2015 with his wife Danielle and two young boys, Noah and Wyatt. Prior to his career in real estate, Brandon worked as an EMT for 10 years, gaining valuable experience in customer service and problem-solving. Since joining Jeff Cook Real Estate in 2018, Brandon has served over 75 families and closed over $20 million in volume, finishing 2022 as one of the top 10 agents in the entire company. Brandon credits his success to the family-like culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate, saying, "It is more than just a place to work, it is a family. We go through life together, supporting each other in the job and in life." His biggest accomplishment so far is persevering through the challenges of the industry and becoming a top-producing agent. Brandon's ultimate goal is to help guide others as they embark on their own journeys, and he does so through his YouTube channel where he shares the Midlands of South Carolina through the eyes of a transplant and real estate agent. As Brandon puts it, "I love this career and feel blessed to have been given the opportunity with Jeff Cook Real Estate, who helped get me started and continues to support me as I have grown into a top producing agent." Contact Brandon by calling 803-766-4663 or by emailing <a>brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>. Be sure to check out his Youtube channel here <a href="http://midlandsofsc.com/">http://midlandsofsc.com/</a>.
Nancy Walsh: Top Seller Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Nancy is a successful real estate agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate and has a deep love for family that has been a driving force in her career. Having helped over 170 families build new lives in homes they found together, Nancy's true joy comes from making these connections. She is a mother of four adult children and two stepchildren, as well as a proud grandmother of six grandchildren. Her supportive husband, Kevin, is also her real estate partner. With Jeff Cook Real Estate, Nancy discovered her true entrepreneurial spirit, having been given the tools and confidence she needed to be successful. Every transaction is special to her, and she considers it a huge accomplishment every time she helps match a family with a home. Nancy loves her job and is passionate about continuing to help families find their dream homes. Contact Nancy by calling 843-994-3715 or by emailing <a>nancy.walsh@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Heidi Schaefer: Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate
Heidi is a native Southern California girl who has lived in 11 states as well as Switzerland. After serving as a flight attendant for almost a decade, she decided to switch careers and became a real estate agent. Since joining Jeff Cook Real Estate in November of 2022, Heidi has already closed three deals in less than 120 days. She loves the supportive and family-oriented culture at Jeff Cook Real Estate and feels motivated to continue her success. Heidi is a mother of four grown children and a grandmother to four little ones ranging in age from 3 months to 7 years old. Despite working another job and taking care of her elderly mother, she has jumped in with both feet and is excited to keep the momentum going. Contact Heidi by calling 843-417-0495 or by emailing <a>heidi.schaefer@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
If you’re interested in buying a home or selling your current one, or give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF or visit <a href="http://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">www.JeffCookRealEstate.com</a>. To learn more about joining Jeff Cook Real Estate visit, <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/careers/join-jcre/">JoinJCRE.com</a>.2023-03-30T09:30:00-07:002023-03-31T13:08:56-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:137952022 Agent Highlight Quarter Two<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/AgentBlogHighlight_Q2_22.jpg" width="3262" height="1835" />Hard work deserves recognition! Our agents are always striving to go the extra mile and help more people every day so we are taking a moment to recognize the teams and agents that have gone above and beyond for this quarter. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we make sure our clients come first and these agents have done a tremendous job ensuring their clients are educated, supported, and comfortable throughout the process. Congratulations to the top agents for quarter two of 2022!
Top Team at Jeff Cook Real Estate: The Smith-Stauder Team
The Smith-Stauder Team is led by Victoria & Lori Smith-Stauder. They have been in real estate since 2018 and have served over 100 families. The Smith-Stauders favorite parts of serving in real estate include the ability to help families and individuals to achieve their goals, educating their clients, and taking potentially stressful situations and making them easier. Joining them on their team are Amanda Susco, Joy Kump, and Craig McBlain. Victoria and Lori say, “We want our clients to receive superb service” throughout the process and want everyone involved to know “we are diligent with our work, helpful, and solution seeking”. With a strong background in education and coaching, this has carried over into their real estate careers through their passion to educate clients as well as coaching and mentoring the agents on their team. These team leaders prioritize building strong rapport with all parties involved from the clients to the lenders and attorneys, the Smith-Stauders say “we all have a common goal” and “we want the agents on our team to handle each person with care”. To get in touch with Victoria and Lori, you can call 843-865-2372 or email <a href="mailto:thesmithstauderteam@jeffcookrealestate.com">thesmithstauderteam@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>.
Rising Star at Jeff Cook Real Estate: Craig McBlain
Craig McBlain started with Jeff Cook in January, and he has already served 3 families. Craig’s favorite part about working with Jeff Cook is helping families secure a home that they have been searching for. “I find joy in helping families find their homes and making the transaction as smooth as possible for them.” Craig works on The Smith Stauder Team, and he would love to help you find your next dream home! Contact Craig at <a href="mailto:craig.mcblain@jeffcookrealestate.com">craig.mcblain@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-474-6630.
Top Listing Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate: David Bateman
David Bateman has been with Jeff Cook since 2015, and he has personally served over 220 families. During his time at Jeff Cook, David has not only helped families buy, but he has also helped create smooth listing processes to better service all our Jeff Cook families. David is passionate about advocating for his families and easing the tensions and anxiety which come in the home-buying process. Contact David at <a href="mailto:david.bateman@jeffcookrealestate.com">david.bateman@jeffcookrealestate.com</a> or call 843-886-1724.
Top Buyer Agent at Jeff Cook Real Estate: Brandon Garon
Brandon Garon has been working in real estate since 2018, and he has served over 50 families. Brandon has expertise in all areas of home buying, and he loves getting to meet each family’s unique needs. Brandon says, “I love the ability to help people achieve their goals of homeownership - whether it's their first house, or retirement house on the lake!” Follow Brandon on his YouTube channel to learn more, contact Brandon at <a href="mailto:brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com">brandon.garon@jeffcookrealestate.com</a>, or call 803-766-4663.
<br />If you’re interested in buying a home or selling your current one, give us a call at 855-HEY-JEFF or visit <a href="http://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">www.JeffCookRealEstate.com</a>2022-06-08T13:32:00-07:002023-03-30T12:18:23-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:12883Top 5 Food Trucks in Columbia, SCIf you’re looking for things to do in Columbia, SC, you definitely need to check out the thriving food truck scene. Everything from burgers to ice cream to seafood is available, and each entrepreneur seems to offer something unique. Food trucks have become hugely popular, not only for the downtown crowd that needs a nearby, walking distance food outlet. Among the fun things to do in Columbia, SC is driving around and choosing a new food truck to try, or chasing down where your favorite culinary vehicle is parked today.
Here are the Top 5 Food Trucks in Columbia, SC. And you know we had a hard time narrowing this list down!
The Belgian Waffle Truck
Enjoy classic Liege Waffles from Belgium that include the sweetest waffles, whipped cream, and a wide range of toppings. <a href="http://www.thebelgianwaffletruck.com/">The Belgian Waffle Truck</a> cranks out completely authentic oufti and croque monsieur waffles, sandwich waffles, and more, using authentic recipes, ingredients, and even a waffle iron sourced from Belgium. Your fresh, savory meal is prepared and served fresh and hot, and there is always plenty of food to get your morning filling.
Look for this great breakfast option regularly from 9am to 1pm at the Soda City Farmers Market on Main Street in Columbia.
Fishin Fellas, LLC
<a href="https://twitter.com/FishinFellas">Fishin' Fellas</a> provides the ultimate fresh seafood experience, when looking for things to do in Columbia, SC, even from a food truck. The menu changes daily according to the catch, but includes great favorites like shrimp po’boys, sauteed crab legs, huge fried fish dinners, and of course, homemade rice and coleslaw. Try out the salmon burgers and classic Beaufort stew.
Call them at 803-297-4704 to discover where the good stuff is getting prepared today, but you can frequently locate them at 101 Greystone Boulevard in front of the Wells Fargo Building, or at 158 Langford Road at Blythewood Cigar & Wine.
Brown's KA-BOB-BQ
The south is known for stellar BBQ, but prepare yourself to enjoy savory meat on a stick with this shish-kabob styled BBQ. These ideal choice cuts of chicken, beef, and lamb are freshly grilled while you wait, marinated in their own house seasoning, and come with veggies, salad, and bread for a completely filling meal. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BROWNSKABOBBQ/">Browns KA-BOB-BQ</a> is the solution for humdrum lunch menus. We recommend the sirloin Shami Kabob!
Check out their Facebook page linked above or call 201-884-3563 for their current location, but you can often find them at U.S. 1 Metro, 3500 Augusta Road.
The Haute Dog Lady
You never know what to expect with <a href="https://hautedoglady.com/">The Haute Dog Lady</a>, but one thing we’ve come to expect after their 7+ years in business — the food will be outstanding! Call on them for simply delectable dogs and sausages of all kinds, with a virtual waterfall of topping choices and sides. Available for food truck events, catering and more, this rolling menu of meat is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Call 803-477-1254 for their daily locations and events, and prepare yourself for food that is never average, but always haute!
Carolina Cookin’
When looking for things to do in Columbia, SC, track down the <a href="https://www.carolinacookin.biz/">Carolina Cookin’</a> food truck and prepare for a load of homemade goodness. Every sampling is chock-full of southern hospitality with recipes straight out of your grandmother’s kitchen. Authentic Southern food sticks to the ribs and any choice you make here will leave you filled and satisfied. Try the alligator sausage, shrimp, oyster, or crawfish po’boys, pulled pork, beef brisket, and Carolina fried rice. We recommend the Fried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with their own special remoulade sauce. Is your mouth watering yet?
Call to see where they’ve set up shop today at 803-348-8188. You can also book them for your next special event. The menu can be customized and is sure to please!
If you’re looking for things to do in Columbia, SC, be sure to check out these distinctive food trucks for a hearty meal. Plus, Columbia has much to offer. Moving to the area? Jeff Cook Real Estate can help. Call us at <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/contact/">855-HEY-JEFF</a>. 2022-02-23T12:20:00-07:002022-02-16T12:06:23-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:12724Date Night Ideas for Columbia, SCWith its mix of tranquil nature, artsy vibe, and lively cosmopolitan, South Carolina’s capital provides a wide range of things to do for people of all ages and types. When it comes to date night, living in Columbia, SC means you’ve got lots of options.
This city is riddled with romantic spots that are sure to help light that spark while ensuring a good time, including these options.
Sunset Watching and a Concert at West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater
The 3.5-mile system of boardwalks along the Congaree River in the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater are ideal for strolling hand-in-hand enjoying the picturesque views. If you time it right it you can walk along the river while enjoying a sunset, with glorious colors splashed behind the downtown skyline.
There are often concerts held here like the free Rhythm on the River series that make it easy to enjoy to extend your time for the complete date night.
A Romantic Dinner Out
Some of the best restaurants in Columbia offer the perfect romantic dinner out, with everything from farm-to-table southern classics to traditional Italian.
<a href="https://www.hallschophouse.com/" target="_blank">Halls Chophouse</a> offers gorgeous views and an elegant atmosphere for dining on New American fare paired with fine wines from across the globe. The impressive menu features items like locally raised trout, 28-day dry aged steaks, and Japanese Wagyu filets with decadent desserts to finish. Live music can be enjoyed every night, with jazz hosted on select evenings.
Or head to Ristorante Divino in historic Congaree Vista to enjoy five-star, authentic Northern Italian cuisine in an atmospheric setting.
Catch a Classic at the Nickelodeon Theatre
On historic Main Street you’ll find the only independent movie theater in Columbia, the Nickelodeon. It’s the perfect place to fall in love with a classic film all over again, and with each other while sipping a glass of Cabernet. Afterward, head to The Roof Top Lounge to cap off the evening with a panoramic view of the sparkling lights of the city.
Axe Throwing and Game Night
While it might sound like one of the more bizarre activities you can do together, couples who’ve been there and done that, enjoy a little friendly competition, and are looking to do something different should consider <a href="https://craftaxethrowing.com/us/sc/columbia" target="_blank">Craft Axe Throwing</a>. This unique trend can also be a great first date when you want to avoid awkward conversations. It’s just like throwing darts only on a larger scale.
After you’ve slung like Vikings, end the night with games at Transmission Arcade. Open until 2 a.m. every day except Sunday, this classic arcade and bar on Main Street downtown has pinball machines and more than two dozen arcade games.
Take a Cooking Class
By taking a cooking class, you might learn how to make your favorite dishes for each other for future date nights. <a href="https://www.letscookculinary.com/" target="_blank">Let’s Cook Culinary Studio</a> provides this ideal hands-on, shared experience that allows you to prepare items under the guidance of a professional chef.
Final Door Escape
One of the most fun and interactive things to do in Columbia, SC is to take part in a Final Door Escape Game. It’s the top-rated escape room in the city with rooms for all ages. It can be a test of your relationship, however, as you’ll need to work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and ultimately try to escape the room.2022-01-26T17:39:00-07:002022-01-26T09:05:57-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10728Top 5 Places to Live in South Carolina<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Family_Moving.png" width="2652" height="1770" alt="Family Moving" />
South Carolina's thriving economy, ideal year round weather, plenty of attractions, natural beauty, great food, and festivals makes it one of the best places to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/countdown-to-move-out-checklist/">move</a> to if you are buying a home.
Best Places To Live In South Carolina In 2021
1. Myrtle Beach
If a resort town sounds like a place where you could settle down, Myrtle Beach may be the perfect choice for you. Myrtle Beach is relatively close (90 minutes of driving) to other South Carolina highly populated metro areas such as Columbia and Charleston.
This city features more than sixty miles of beaches, and along with that, it offers different water activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and so on. Myrtle Beach attracts people who are looking for a relaxed and slower pace.
2. Charleston
Those who are already selling a home in Charleston know how great this city is. Wondering why so? Because it ranks among the best places to live in, year after year.
Those who are buying a home and already thinking about moving to South Carolina often choose Charleston because it has its own unique lifestyle.
Charleston architecture succumbed to a European influence. There are many museums, art galleries, venues, and so on. Charleston also offers fantastic healthcare.
What truly beautifies Charleston are cobblestone streets and its <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/historic-homes-in-charleston-sc/">historic homes</a>.
3. Columbia
Columbia is South Carolina's capital city and the most populated one. Although Columbia is not such a tourist attraction as other coastal cities, it still has plenty of stuff to offer.
One of the most popular things is perhaps Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Other Columbia attractions include the Columbia Museum of Art, Congaree National Park, South Carolina State Museums, and the South Carolina State House.
Anyhow, one of the best things about living in Columbia is its location. As it is located in the middle of South Carolina, it is two hours from the mountains and two hours from the beaches, so you can have a bit of both.
4. Greenville
<a href="https://www.travelawaits.com/2658791/things-to-do-in-greenville-sc/">Greenville</a> has a couple of small colleges and is located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For those who prefer cooler weather but want to live in a metropolitan area, then Greenville is the best option to consider.
Greenville public schools rank very well in the entire U.S.A, and it is the most affordable city to live in and raise children.
5. Rock Hill
Rock Hill is only 30 miles away from Charlotte. It features 31 parks that draw a lot of outdoor enthusiasts and four recreation centers.
Winthrop University gives this lovely city a small touch of college town vibe. With plenty of celebrations and special events, this city has something to offer for everyone.
There are plenty of options for wonderful places to live in South Carolina, and when you are ready to move, Jeff Cook Real Estate is prepared to walk through the process with you. Our agents are experts on the top cities and neighborhoods in South Carolina. Call 855-HEY-JEFF to begin the process of finding your perfect home and to speak with an agent today!2021-05-17T08:00:00-07:002021-05-17T08:44:53-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10064How Company Culture Can Impact Your Success<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/women_working_on_laptop.jpg" width="1200" height="800" />
All great companies have a common driving force: culture. Do you want to be a part of a big-box franchise or a small boutique brokerage? Do you want to be 100% independent, or do you want lead-generation and leadership opportunities? Choosing a brokerage with a culture that suits you can have a tremendous impact on your career.
At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we believe that company culture is the main pillar that supports success and growth <a href="https://topworkplaces.com/company/jeff-cook-real-estate/southcarolina/" title="Jeff Cook Real Estate Overview" target="_blank">within our company</a>. Take a look below at a few ways culture in your brokerage can impact <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/tips-for-succeeding-as-a-real-estate-agent/" title="Tips For Succeeding as a Real Estate Agent" target="_blank">your real estate career</a>.
Your Performance:
When everyone in your office is working towards a common goal, you’ll feel compelled to put forth the extra effort to achieve that goal which then propels your business forward into success. Seeking out a brokerage with team spirit and camaraderie where goals are clearly communicated and agent performance is rewarded can certainly impact your performance and results!
Your Happiness:
Surrounding yourself in an office environment with generally happy people can subconsciously raise your happiness professionally and personally. Now, everyone may not stand around holding hands and singing ‘kumbaya,’ but knowing you have an office full of support with leadership that invests in your success brings a sense of relief while taking off unnoticed stress you may not even be aware of.
Your Engagement:
When deciding to join a new brokerage, it's important to align yourself with a brokerage that supports you in the way you want to be supported - whether your interests are leadership, training, 100% commission, or just to be left alone to work on your own.
Your Growth:
Leads are always a top need for real estate agents to cultivate growth - it’s what your business thrives off of. With a smaller boutique-style brokerage, you may need to find your own leads that have allowances for you to be creative and find what works for you. With a bigger brokerage, like Jeff Cook Real Estate, leads are provided to you so you can focus on customer service and closing more deals, in turn making more money.
One of the great things about real estate is that this is your business, and you get to determine how you want to run it. Selecting a new brokerage is a big task, as it will surely impact your real estate career. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, our agents and employees display mutual respect for themselves and one another which gives us the ability to launch our impact further than the competition. We seek solutions to the competitive issues within the real estate industry and strive towards innovation and efficiency.
If your values and business needs align with our culture, visit <a href="http://www.joinjcre.com">www.JoinJCRE.com</a> or call us to schedule a confidential interview at 855-Hey-Jeff today!2021-02-17T14:56:00-07:002022-09-27T05:10:56-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5945August 2019 Columbia Real Estate Market UpdateAs we have seen over the past several months, the interest rate drop from July 31 has not caused the upturn in sales that one would have thought it would. There is a lack of affordable housing and that lack, along with higher housing prices are affecting the number of home sales. First time home buyers are unable to buy at the higher price levels, even though the lower rates would be a help.
Here is a brief summary of the numbers from the August Columbia Market: and what they mean for anyone thinking of buying or selling.
New Listings - 1620 (up 8.3% from 8/18)
Rending Sales - 1346 (up 6.2% from 8/18)
Closed Sales - 1376 (down 1.4% from 8/18)
Days On Market - 50 (down 5.7% from 8/18)
Median Sales Price - $185,000 (up 11.8% from 8/18)
Percent of Asking Price Received 97.7% (up 0.3% from 8/18)
Months Supply of Inventory - 2.9 (up 3.6% from 8/18)
The number of new listings coming on to the Columbia market in August has increased from August of last year, and the number of days on the market is shortening. The number of pending sales has increased 6.2% and median prices are up almost 12% from this time last year. These statistics are all indicating that it is a great time to be a seller. This is obviously not great news for buyers. Additionally, the monthly supply of homes is only at 2.9, which is low, and sellers are receiving 97.8% of their asking price. If you are considering <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-sell-your-home/">selling your home</a>, do it now while interest rates are low and more buyers can afford to purchase. For more information on key indicators of a healthy housing market, click <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/key-indicators-of-a-healthy-housing-market/">here</a>.
Here at Jeff Cook Real Estate, we work hard to help you with integrity and honesty. We have many eager buyers wanting to purchase. It is an excellent time to give us a call to list your home. Call-855-HEY-JEFF today.
Stay up-to-date and check out the <a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/columbia-real-estate-market-trends/">most current Columbia market updates</a>!2019-09-23T11:21:00-07:002021-01-22T11:05:00-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5995July 2019 Columbia Market UpdateThe general U.S. economic expansion continued into the start of its 11th year in July 2019. The average rate of growth in this expansion has not been as robust as the 1990’s expansion, at 2.3 per year versus 3.6 previously. During this 10 year expansion, the unemployment rate has dropped from 10% in 2009 to 3.7 in 2019. The economy is expected to continue to function well for the rest of 2019, but a mild recession is becoming more of a threat.
Here are the numbers from the Columbia area for July.
New Listings - 1785 (up 13.1% from 7/18)
Rending Sales - 1482 (up 13.8 % from 7/18)
Closed Sales - 1397 (up 2.9% from 7/18)
Days On Market - 49 (down 3.9% from 7/18)
Median Sales Price - $187,000 (up 9.8%% from 7/18)
Percent of Asking Price Received 97.9% (0% from 7/18)
Months Supply of Inventory - 2.9 (0% 7/18)
New listings are up 13.1 % and pending sales are also up 13.8%. Prices have risen and the number of days on the market has gone down slightly to 49 days. Sellers are still getting 97.9% of their asking price and months supply of inventory remains at 2.9. For more information on key indicators of a healthy housing market, click <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/key-indicators-of-a-healthy-housing-market/">here</a>.
It is a <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-sell-your-home/">great time to sell your home</a> in the Columbia area. If you are a buyer, you need to present a strong offer and act decisively when you find a home. At Jeff Cook Real Estate, we can make the selling or buying process fast, simple, and stress-free. Whether you are a buyer or seller, call Jeff Cook Real Estate at 855-HEY-JEFF for information about your neighborhood market, pricing and marketing your home correctly, lending options, and anything else related to real estate.
Stay up-to-date and check out the <a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/columbia-real-estate-market-trends/">most current Columbia market updates</a>!2019-08-22T07:07:00-07:002021-01-22T09:56:44-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6025What the Million Dollar Home Buyer Looks ForThere are many things that categorize Signature Homes as "<a href="https://www.homedit.com/million-dollar-house-ideas-makes-house-expensive-days/">luxurious</a>." However, what really determines this since Signature Homes come in all shapes and sizes? One could be a six-bedroom house in the country, while another can be a two-bedroom townhome located right on King Street. Since no two Signature Homes are the same, here are some added bonuses that a million-dollar homebuyer looks for when purchasing a home:
A Pool:
Although pools are a lot of upkeep and might not seem worth it because you can't use it for a quarter of the year, the luxury home buyer would rather have a private pool instead of a public community pool. Their own pool gives them privacy and the ability to swim and layout whenever they want.
A Beautiful View:
In the Charleston area, there are so many different options for views. Think about it: the million-dollar buyer wants a million-dollar view. something beautiful to look at through their windows while cooking or even out their back patio to help relax and unwind after work. Homes with views of the ocean, downtown, or of the Ravenel Bridge are going to be worth the price.
Elevators:
Although elevators are not as common these days, they do add a touch of luxury and convenience. Although I could not see the use of an elevator, mainly because I have not physically seen an elevator in someone's home, what's a couple of extra bucks when it comes to saving yourself the time and energy to walk up four floors of your home every day?
Country Club Amenities:
A lot of luxury home buyers partake in luxury events, such as golf tournaments, private events at country clubs, tennis lessons, and swim classes that take place in private pools. Country Clubs are usually exclusive and the opportunity to be a part of one just by the location of the home is something that the luxury home buyer is looking for.
Acres:
Although acres are irrelevant to those who live in the city, land is a huge factor for homes that are further out. This is important for areas such as Lexington, Chapin, Saluda, St. Matthews, etc. In small towns like these, land, privacy, and seclusion is what will sell. Most of these areas do not have beachy views, country clubs, or even proximity to a town, so land is what the million-dollar home buyer wants in these areas.
Proximity to Beaches/Downtown:
The <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/6-great-reasons-to-buy-a-home-in-charleston-south-carolina/">historical city of Charleston</a>, along with beaches like Sullivan's Island, is what attracts people to move here. When selling your luxury home that is right on the beach, you're more likely to sell faster if you're a block away from the beach instead of having to take a twenty-minute drive. Although a half an hour drive to see downtown Charleston isn't so bad, for luxury homebuyers who want to see downtown every day, they will spend big bucks to own and be a part of one of the historic homes.
If you're thinking about <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">selling your home</a> and it falls in the Signature Home range, check to see if your house or property has any of these qualities. This will help you figure out how high you can actually list for, what the million-dollar home buyer is looking for, and qualities that will make your home sell faster and for more money. 2018-04-12T08:03:00-07:002021-01-20T14:10:37-07:00Cory Towler