Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Home For Sale - 126 McGrady, Ladson, SC


126 McGrady
This is NOT a Short Sale!

Check out this meticulously cared for home featuring DUAL master suites - One up, one down - and a great open floor plan! Welcoming the foyer with hardwood floors, formal dining room with more hardwoods, large kitchen with upgraded appliances and recessed lighting that over looks the spacious family room with gas log fireplace, eat-in-kitchen, breakfast bar, and over-sized laundry ROOM!

4 LARGE bedrooms total, 3 full baths, 1 half bath, PLUS A LOFT! 2 full baths upstairs and 1.5 bath downstairs. THE PERFECT FLOOR PLAN. Both master suites are very spacious. Upstairs master suite has a separate seating area and walk-in closet. Multiple walk-in closets throughout the bedrooms AND 3 additional hallway closets allow for ample storage throughout this home. Downstairs master suite boasts a HUGE walk-in closet, dual vanities in bath, garden tub and separate shower.

Fully fenced and professionally landscaped backyard with pond views, screened back porch, separate grilling patio, and 2 car garage complete this move-in ready home. Security system, irrigation system, and transferable termite bond to boot!

Summer Park is a great family community that offers a Jr. Olympic pool, clubhouse, and play park. Can close quickly so make your appointment today!




About Military Homes of CharlestonMilitary Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC. We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.

Charleston AFB - To Rent or Buy???

We get asked all the time, is it better to rent or buy?  Well…..that depends in some cases….but with the current Charleston AFB real estate market; it often makes more sense to buy!  Let me explain why.
  • While home prices may still continue to drop, the COST of owning a home will most likely increase
  • Mortgage rates are slowly on the rise, and experts predict that this trend will continue
  • Right now, it is less expensive to own than rent in 72% of major U.S. cities (*information provided by the KCM group)
  • Rental costs are continuing to rise
As you know, cost is largely based on supply and demand.  Right now, the demand for rental properties in the Charleston AFB area is huge!  Many homeowners, who were forced to short sale or foreclose, are now unable to buy…..so we have an influx of ‘new’ renters fighting over a rapidly decreasing supply of rental properties. 

Think back to your economics class, and you’ll remember that when supply goes down and demand goes up…..PRICES GO UP!  And this is what is happening with rental prices in the Charleston AFB area.

In Summary……
If you’re able to buy, then now is a GREAT time to do so!  Right now, you can take advantage of tremendously low home prices, PLUS get a mortgage at a historically low interest rate.


On the other hand, the cost to rent is on the rise, and shows no signs of slowing down…..


About Military Homes of Charleston
Military Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC.  We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call (843-475-9313) or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.   Email Torri or Visit Me On Facebook!


Jodie Hurt, Military Homes of Charleston
I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!  Email Jodie 






Monday, June 13, 2011

Charleston AFB - Got Stress?



Charleston AFB - Got Stress?  Take the Stress Out of Homebuying


Buying a home should be fun, not stressful. But as most of you know… this is not always the case!   Here are some tips to keep in mind as you look for your next home in the Charleston AFB area……

1. Find an agent you actually want to spend your weekends with!
Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one.  Looking for a home can be a long process….and often involves many weekends spent side by side with your agent.  Wouldn’t you rather spend this time with someone you actually like?  If you groan every time your agent’s number shows up on called ID – then you have the wrong agent!



2. Everyone you know doesn’t need to like the house!
It’s natural to want lots of reassurance for such a big decision….but you know what they say about opinions!

The ONLY opinion that truly matters is YOURS!  Only you know the wants and needs of your Charleston military family – not your neighbor, or your boss, or even dear old Mom……



3. Understand that your dream home may not be perfect!
Perfect location but hate the shag carpet?  Dream kitchen except for the pink floral wallpaper?  Great school district but not crazy about the landscaping?  Don’t despair….. Just figure out what your top priorities are and go for the things that are most important to you.  Don’t sweat the small stuff! 



4. Do you want the house or the last word?
Negotiation is definitely part of buying a home, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price or by refusing to budge on your offer may cost you the home you love.  You don’t need to be Gordon Gekko…..you need to be smart and logical and know when to say YES! 



5. Plan accordingly!
Don’t wait until you’ve found your dream home to get approved for a mortgage.   Getting pre-approved for a home mortgage should be the FIRST thing you do when you’re ready to buy a home in the Charleston AFB area…..Would you fill up your cart with groceries and wait until the check out line to figure out how much you can afford?  And how you’re going to pay?  I think not!



Bottom Line – Buying a home in the Charleston AFB area is a wonderful thing!  Whether you’re a property virgin or an old pro, there’s nothing that compares to the feeling of finding the right home for you and your family.  So keep that chin up!  Remember to enjoy it!





About Military Homes of Charleston
Military Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC.  We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.



Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call (843-475-9313) or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.   Email Torri or Visit Me On Facebook!

Jodie Hurt, Military Homes of Charleston
I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!  Email Jodie 



Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Choosing the Right Agent to Sell Your Home in the Charleston AFB Market


Selling Your Home in the Charleston AFB Market

In today’s ever changing and somewhat confusing housing market, most Charleston Military families rely on a professional real estate agent when it’s time to sell their home.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, the number one thing a seller wants from their real estate agent is “help pricing the home competitively”.  So let the battle of wits begin…….

Who’s Telling the Truth?
As the seller, you want to sell your home for the highest price possible…And a professional real estate agent wants to sell your home for the highest price possible….  Unfortunately, what you think your home is worth may not be in line with current market conditions. When an agent attempts to tell you that your home may be ‘overpriced’, you may be skeptical….Is the agent telling you the truth or just trying to low ball the price to make a quick commission?


Adding to the confusion is chances are you have met at least one agent who readily agreed with your price and promised you a ‘quick sale’…. Sound familiar?  Is this agent telling the truth or just trying to get the listing?  

Remember……. A professional real estate agent will tell you everything you need to know.  Ask questions – LOTS of them, and expect answers!  An experienced real estate agent should be able to defend their price recommendations and provide you with market comparisons.  An experienced real estate agent will be patient, honest, and open – and not simply tell you what you want to hear.

Bottom Line
If you are considering selling your Charleston AFB home in the next year, sit down with a local real estate professional today. Let them explain what is taking place with prices in your area. If an agent tells you the price you were hoping for is not available in the current market – listen!   Ask them to explain their thinking and, if they can do that in a simple and effective way, consider yourself lucky……You have just found a professional!


About Military Homes of Charleston
Military Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC.  We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call (843-475-9313) or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.   Email Torri or Visit Me On Facebook!

Jodie Hurt, Military Homes of Charleston
I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!  Email Jodie 



Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Charleston AFB - To be a Landlord, or Not to Be... That is the Question


It’s a great time to invest in Charleston military real estate, but the day to day responsibility of maintaining a rental property can be overwhelming for some owners.  For some, the solution is to hire a Property Management group.  If you’re not certain if this is the right thing for you – here are some things to consider and some reasons why a Property Management group may be a good solution for you.

How Much Rent Per Month? – Professional Property Managers have extensive knowledge about Charleston rental rates and can determine the highest rental rate possible for your property. Today’s internet savvy tenants will know if your property is overpriced - and overpriced properties will sit empty.  A vacant property does not a good investment make…..

Choosing the Right Tenant - Professional Property Managers require detailed applications, along with photo ID from each potential tenant and will run criminal background checks as well.  They will also check the tenant’s credit history and call past and present employers, landlords and other references.

Marketing Expertise - Professional Property Managers have invaluable experience in how to best market your Charleston AFB property and will maximize your property’s exposure – providing you with a qualified tenant FASTER! 

Getting Paid - Professional Property Managers have proven methods in place to improve timely and consistent rent collection.  This means money in your pocket FASTER – and consistent cash flow is the difference between succeeding and failing as a real estate investor.

Inspection Reports - Professional Property Managers perform property inspections before, during and after a tenancy.  Faults in your property that are found quickly can be resolved before they become expensive items of disrepair. 

Property Law and Regulations - Professional Property Managers have extensive and up-to-date knowledge of property laws and regulations and will assist you in making sure you are in compliance with Charleston, South Carolina and federal rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include complying with fair housing regulations, the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable local, state and federal laws.

Financial Records and Security Deposit Escrows - Professional Property Managers will manage your security deposit escrow funds and make sure you are in compliance with local and state regulations.

“My toilet is overflowing!” - Professional Property Managers will handle the dreaded late night emergency maintenance calls and tenant headaches.  Imagine never again having to get the 1am phone call!

Bottom Line – When you own a Charleston rental property, consider your options and decide what is best for you.  Some home owners make great landlords, while others simply do not have the time, the experience, or the desire to do the job.   Speak with a full-service Real Estate agency or Property Management company for more information. 




Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of CharlestonBuying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call (843-475-9313) or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.   Email Torri or Visit Me On Facebook!

Jodie Hurt, Military Homes of Charleston
I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!  Email Jodie 



About Military Homes of CharlestonMilitary Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC.  We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Charleston AFB - Memorial Day Thank You



Often we do not observe Memorial Day as it should be - a day where we remember our loved ones, our neighbors and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice.  Today – let us celebrate the pride and honor of our U.S Military and remember those who have fallen, and rejoice in the ones who live.  And most importantly........Let none of us forget the true meaning of Memorial Day. 

Military Homes of Charleston proudly salute our brave Military men and women who have sacrificed so much over the years.   THANK YOU!

May you all enjoy a beautiful and safe Memorial Day with your family and friends.


Friday, May 27, 2011

JUST REDUCED! 111 JEFFERSON, LADSON, SC



Just REDUCED! ALL OFFERS WILL BE CONSIDERED! HVAC is less than 2 yrs old! Roof replaced in 2005! Windows replaced in 2005! All that's missing from this lovely home...is YOU! This home is a perfect candidate for a 203k rehab loan. All it needs is a bit of updating to make it fabulous. Hardwood floors throughout living area, hallway, and bedrooms. Bathrooms have tile flooring. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Oversized garage. Separate dining room, or formal living room - this room is huge! Large enough to be anything you need. You get all this PLUS a home located in the desirable Dorchester II school district. Tranquil Acres is a peaceful neighborhood… that is well maintained. Also close to shopping, restaurants, and convenient access to 26. Home comes with a transferrable termite bond. Storage shed to convey.

Contact Military Homes of Charleston today for more information. 


About Military Homes of CharlestonMilitary Homes of Charleston is part of the Exit Realty Charleston Group and is a full-service real estate team based in Charleston, SC.  We understand the appeal of living in Charleston and the challenges that come with moving to a new neighborhood or state. So whether you’re looking to buy a dream property or sell one, we can help.

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of CharlestonBuying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call (843-475-9313) or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.   Email Torri or Visit Me On Facebook!

Jodie Hurt, Military Homes of Charleston                                
I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!  Email Jodie