Springtime Curb Appeal

Springtime can present many difficulties when it comes to curb appeal.

For many areas of the country, this time of year means brown lawns, leafless bushes and trees, and a depressing lack of color.

Yes, we have the hope of the color splashes and lush landscapes that go hand in hand with summer, but what can be done now?

Improving curb appeal has shown to increase not only your property's value, but also the property values of your entire neighborhood.

Whether you are selling or staying put, here are five tips that can help you on your way to a beautiful home.

1. Sidewalks and Driveways:

This may be the first part of your property that your guests or prospective buyers step foot on. Literally.

An affordable, virtually maintenance free option for sprucing up your paths is concrete stain. It can cost around $30 a gallon and requires very little prep work. This is a do-it-yourself project.

Consider picking a color that is in the same color family as that of your home. A blue home could be happily complemented by a gray drive.

Another tip: Fix cracks and uneven sections. This project may require a bit more professional attention, but will give buyers the impression that your entire home, not just the entrace, has been maintained.

2. Accent Door:

It has been called the lipstick on the lady. It's inviting and it draws visitors – or buyers – in to your home. A plain door tends to recede into the background.

Consider a contrasting color to the siding of your home. On the color wheel, green is opposite red and yellow is opposite blue. Don't be afraid to be daring (think a fushcia door on a cream colored home). Just a pint of paint can cover most doors, and if you don't like the result – you can try another color!

3. Trimming Trees:

Stand in front of your home and take a close – and fresh – look at your trees and bushes. Are there branches that have become overgrown and now obstruct the view of the home?

You want your landscaping to complement your home, not hide it. Trees should frame paths and entries. To trim tree branches yourself you can buy a pole pruner or chain saw. Or you can hire a professional, who has experience in shaping trees.

Keep in mind, however, that spring is NOT the time to prune flowering trees or maples. These should be done in late Summer and early Fall.

4. Early Spring Planting:

The last frost date varies by area. It also varies from year to year in that area, but if you feel that your home will not see another frost, then you may be safe to plant a few hardy annuals to add some pops of color to your yard. Even if a frost catches you by surprise – you can cover the plants for the evening to save them from succumbing to the cold.

The plant must also have time to take good root before severe rains come.

Some plants that you can give you an early burst of color:


Pansies: these bolts of color can even survive winter in some areas

Calendula: these “pot marigolds” are a versatile plant

Violets: heart shapes petals

Other options: cornflower, foxglove, larkspur, sweet alyssum, dianthus, baby’s breath, bells of Ireland, blue sage, candytuft, celome, forget-me-nots, love-in-a-mist, snow-on-the-mountain, strawflower, and torenia
5. Outdoor Lighting:

Low voltage (12 volt) and solar lighting are great options for improving curb appeal.

There are hundreds of designs of solar lights. These small fixtures are generally set on stakes in the ground and can be used to accent paths or gardens. And they are a great do-it-yourself option.

Also, consider using uplighting on trees to create night-time focal points – great for buyers doing after work drive by inspections!

by Carla L. Davis

Clean Homes Show Better--Five Areas To Scrub to Make Yours Sparkle

So, here's a question for you. Would you rather walk into a clean home or a dirty one? No, it's not a trick question but it is an important one. You see, when it comes to selling a home, many people forget how important the answer to that question really is. Sellers get busy looking for their new home, preparing the kids for a move, packing up their belongings, getting organized for their new life and relocation so much that sometimes their home that's for sale doesn't get the TLC that's needed to push it to the top of the buyers' must-have list.

It's not until the home sits on the market for long periods that sellers realize something has to change. Sometimes it's the marketing, sometimes it's the price, and sometimes it's the fact that the home that's being shown isn't clean enough. Yes, a clean home shows better and there are five ways to make yours sparkle from roof to baseboards.

Hard to Reach Windows/Skylights.

These often get overlooked either because they're difficult to access to clean or because they aren't right at eye level. Whichever the case, cleaning windows in high ceilings or skylights provides a brighter light to shine in your home. Sometimes just getting out the cloud of dust and dirt that accumulates can make a difference between a murky-looking room and one that is eye-catching. And here's a tip from Buzzle.com, "Clean the windows on a cloudy day, but not a rainy one. If you clean the windows in the direct light of the sun, traces can appear on the window, as the cleaning solution gets dry before being cleaned.”

Baseboards and Walls.

I have written about giving your home a fresh coat of paint prior to putting it on the market. But maybe you can get away with a good wipe-down instead. Using a wet, mildly soapy cloth you can scrub the baseboards and walls to make them look like they've had a fresh coat of paint, if the paint isn't chipped or too worn. However, a product called Mr. Clean's Magic Erasers will save you the mess and ease the elbow grease. These rectangle-shaped cleaning pads help take the grime off nearly everything. You don't have to spray anything on the surface you're going to clean; just wet the eraser and wipe off the marks. I've done whole walls with these pads and made it look as though the wall had been freshly painted. Be sure to get the baseboards and get down to kids' level and wipe off the marks where they place their fingers while walking down the hall or up the stairs. When buyers see homes that are scoffed and worn like that, they may think it's an indication that the home might not have gotten the care it needed for the bigger things too—such as furnace, disposal, plumbing, electrical wiring, etc. It gives a general feeling of un-cleanliness and can leave a negative lasting impression.

Toilets.

It may seem like this goes without saying but I'm sure any real estate agent you ask will have a horror story about toilets. Whether they're leaking, continuously running, stained, or simply stinky, they pose a major deterrent. If you've got an older toilet, give it a good inspection and be sure to check under the lid. Buyers sometimes use your toilet when they're looking at your home and nothing is worse than seeing rust stains and other unsightly marks. A good product is Zep Toilet Bowl Cleaner.

Tile.

When you're showing your house, hopefully, you'll get lots of foot traffic. This, however, can lead to very dirty flooring and grout. Yes, you can supply those footies and the sign placed by the door asking buyers to remove their shoes or put the footies on before entering your home, but, the truth is, not all will comply. Still, the tile and the condition of the grout will matter to buyers should they decide to make an offer. There are certainly many products to get the dirt out of those tiny grout lines; one that I've had success with is called Heavy Duty Acidic Cleaner for tile. Use a brush to really scrub those dirty lines; doing so will make the tile standout and not look like it needs re-grouting.

Closets, Cabinets, Computer areas.

"Buyers love to snoop and will open closet and cabinet doors. That's according to About.com Guide, Elizabeth Weintraub. She writes about the need to de-clutter closets, hang shirts all facing the same way, and even alphabetize the spice cabinet. Wow! Love it! I realize you may feel you don't have time for all of that. Still, the point is, don't have junk stuffed inside closets and cabinets so that when potential buyers open them to have a peek, everything comes crashing down on them–and gives the impression that the closets are too small. Computer areas are becoming more popular in homes and behind most of those computers is a tangled web of wires collecting tons of dust.

Organize the wires using Velcro zip-ties and dust them off! Or, better yet, if you don't have to use the computer daily, arrange the area like you were filming a movie or shooting an advertisement—you never see wires. Remove all of the computer and accessory electronic cords. You can leave the monitor display on the desk but taking away the wires and storing them will give the area a more spacious, clean, and professionally staged look. A little cleaning and preparation before you market your home will help show buyers that you've cared for the house and that could be just the signal a buyer needs to make an offer.


by Phoebe Chongchua

Why RE/MAX?

• RE/MAX Associates are professionals who are fully committed to their clients.

• RE/MAX Associates lead the industry in advanced professional education.

• RE/MAX Associates have numerous marketing tools to provide exposure for their listings, including RE/MAX advertising, remax.com and the Design Center.

• RE/MAX Associates will smoothly handle the myriad details of a home sale and help sellers understand the process.

• RE/MAX Associates are well-known for their community involvement and for their contributions to Children's Miracle Network and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Tips for Successfully Marketing Your Home

Today more than ever homeowners need to focus on creating a comprehensive plan for marketing their property. Use this video to learn why RE/MAX agents are uniquely qualified to help you successfully market your home in today's real estate market.

Considering a Home Purchase?

With an investment as large as a home there are many things to consider. Market trends, area information and government programs should all play a role in the decision to buy. Use this video to learn why RE/MAX agents are uniquely qualified to help you identify your ideal place.

Network Front and Center at Olympics

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY: This is one of many print ads, in addition to TV and online ads, promoting RE/MAX during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
The Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver are well under way and RE/MAX is in the thick of the action, thanks to intense marketing and advertising efforts by RE/MAX of Western Canada. Here's a sampling of where RE/MAX is appearing:

CTV and ctv.ca

RE/MAX of Western Canada’s new 30-second commercial is airing on CTV, the official Olympic broadcaster in Canada. Nearly 600 commercials are running across the region, creating over 40 million viewing impressions. Fans accessing Olympic highlights online are seeing RE/MAX spots throughout the www.ctv.ca site.

Global TV – BC

For British Columbia viewers, Canada’s Favorite Agents commercials aired during prevalent programming that featured live broadcasts of “News On the Road” reports from Whistler Feb. 8-20.

Local advertising

Local-level RE/MAX exposure in Vancouver includes:
1) Thousands of Vancouver and area maps featuring a RE/MAX print ad.
2) A RE/MAX sponsored “Medal Standing” section in 24 Hours, the daily commuter publication.
3) Full-colour banner ads in both the Vancouver Sun and The Province.
4) Outdoor video display boards boasting Canada’s Favourite Agents messages located in prominent areas throughout the city.

February Real Estate Magazine ad

A print ad in the February issue of Real Estate magazine proclaims that "Canada's Favourite Agents are in the game."

Obama Pledges $1.5 Billion for Homeowners

During a speech in Henderson, Nevada, President Obama announced $1.5 billion in funding to help struggling homeowners in states hit hardest by declining home values and unemployment. The effort is expected to help state agencies in California, Nevada, Arizona, Florida and Michigan, according to reports. The money will come from the Troubled Asset Relief Fund (TARP).


February 19Th

Before You Buy a Home .....

If you're like most first-time home buyers, you've probably listened to friends', family's and coworkers' advice, many of whom are encouraging you to buy a home. However, you may still wonder if buying a home is the right thing to do. Relax. Having reservations is normal. The more you know about why you should buy a home, the less scary the entire process will appear to you. Here are eight good reasons why you should buy a home.

Pride of Ownership

Pride of ownership is the number one reason why people yearn to own their home. It means you can paint the walls any color you desire, turn up the volume on your CD player, attach permanent fixtures and decorate your home according to your own taste. Home ownership gives you and your family a sense of stability and security. It's making an investment in your future.

Appreciation

Although real estate moves in cycles, sometimes up, sometimes down, over the years, real estate has consistently appreciated. The Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight tracks the movements of single family home values across the country. Its House Price Index breaks down the changes by region and metropolitan area. Many people view their home investment as a hedge against inflation.
Mortgage Interest Deductions
Home ownership is a superb tax shelter and our tax rates favor homeowners. As long as your mortgage balance is smaller than the price of your home, mortgage interest is fully deductible on your tax return. Interest is the largest component of your mortgage payment.

Property Tax Deductions

IRS Publication 530 contains tax information for first-time home buyers. Real estate property taxes paid for a first home and a vacation home are fully deductible for income tax purposes. In California, the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978 established the amount of assessed value after property changes hands and limited property tax increases to 2% per year or the rate of inflation, whichever is less.

Capital Gain Exclusion

As long as you have lived in your home for two of the past five years, you can exclude up to $250,000 for an individual or $500,000 for a married couple of profit from capital gains. You do not have to buy a replacement home or move up. There is no age restriction, and the "over-55" rule does not apply. You can exclude the above thresholds from taxes every 24 months, which means you could sell every two years
and pocket your profit--subject to limitation--free from taxation.

Preferential Tax Treatment

If you receive more profit than the allowable exclusion upon sale of your home, that profit will be considered a capital asset as long as you owned your home for more than one year. Capital assets receive preferential tax treatment.
Morgage Reduction Builds Equity
Each month, part of your monthly payment is applied to the principal balance of your loan, which reduces your obligation. The way amortization works, the principal portion of your principal and interest payment increases slightly every month. It is lowest on your first payment and highest on your last payment. On average, each $100,000 of a mortgage will reduce in balance the first year by about $500 in principal, bringing that balance at the end of your first 12 months to $99,500.

Equity Loans

Consumers who carry credit card balances cannot deduct the interest paid, which can cost as much as 18% to 22%. Equity loan interest is often much less and it is deductible. For many home owners, it makes sense to pay off this kind of debt with a home equity loan. Consumers can borrow against a home's equity for a variety of reasons such as home improvement, college, medical or starting a new business. Some state laws restrict home equity loans.

Real Estate Outlook: Increase in Housing Starts

When you get reports of increases in both new housing starts and existing home and condo sales in a single week, that's got to say something positive about where real estate is headed.

Last week the US Commerce Department announced that new home starts, which have been lackluster for most of the housing downcycle -- rose in January to their highest level in half a year.

Total stats nationwide were up nearly three percent for the month, and rose in three out of four regions covered by the Commerce report. In the Northeast, new starts bounced upward by 10 percent.

In the West, they were up by 9 percent, in the South by one percent.

Meanwhile, the latest quarterly report on existing home and condo sales found total sales up by a stunning 14 percent in the final three months of last year compared with the third quarter.

Transactions were up in 48 states plus the District of Columbia for the quarter -- and they jumped by double digit percentages in 32 states.

Even prices were on the upswing: Of the 151 major housing markets tracked by the National Association of Realtors' survey, median prices were higher in 67 -- and up by double digits in 16 metro areas.

Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, attributed the rise in sales and prices to the two popular federal housing tax credits now available to first-time and repeat purchasers, plus low mortgage rates.

On a regional basis, the biggest sales gains came in the Western states, where they were up 16 percent for the quarter and are 18 percent higher than the year before.

In the Midwest, sales were up by nearly 15 percent. In the South, 14 percent. And in the Northeast by 11 percent.

In a separate study, the national housing affordability index closed out 2009 just a fraction below its all time record high, meaning new and existing houses are now more affordable for a broader group of households than at just about any time in the past twenty years.

The index, which is jointly published by Wells Fargo and the National Association of Home Builders, found that fully 71 percent of American families can afford to buy the median priced home with a median household income of $64,000.

An important part of that affordability equation , of course, is the mortgage market, and rates remain close to multi-decade lows.

Last week's average 30 year fixed rate was 4.9 percent, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association, while 15 year rates averaged 4.3 percent.

by Kenneth R. Harney

2010 - A Stable Market

Where will the market be in 2010?

First let's look at what the market did in 2009.

The figures below show sales of residential homes (excluding manufactured homes), townhomes, and condominiums in the Myrtle Beach areas for 2008 and 2009. The numbers and figures were compiled using actual sales recorded in the Coastal Carolina Association of Realtors MLS for those two years and should not be used as your only source of information in making a decision to purchase or sell a property in the Myrtle Beach area. These figures may not include all sales in the area and may also include a few sales of properties located on the outskirts of the Myrtle Beach area. The dollar figures have been rounded up or down to the nearest $1000.

Residential homes (excluding manufactured homes) sold in 2008 were approximately 3100 and in 2009 approximately 3250. The Average sales price of these homes in 2008 was $278,000 and in 2009 $239,000. The median sold price of these homes in 2008 was $210,000 and in 2009 $185,000.

In the condominium market the approximate number of properties sold in 2008 was 2150 and in 2009 the approximate number of properties sold was 2400. The Average sales price of these properties in 2008 was $208,000 and in 2009 $172,000. The median sold price of these properties in 2008 was $151,000 and in 2009 $125,000.

In the townhome market the approximate number of homes sold in 2008 was 450 and in 2009 the approximate number of homes sold was 325. The Average sales price of these homes in 2008 was $204,000 and in 2009 $160,000. The median sold price of these homes in 2008 was $175,000 and in 2009 $140,000.

As you will note the residential sales in 2009 compared to 2008 increased by almost 5% however the median sold price range decreased by almost 12%. In the condominium sales the number of sales increased by 12% but the median sold price decreased by a whopping 17%. Sales of townhomes faired much worse as sales decreased by almost 28% and the median sold price dropped by 20%.

Now what does all of this mean for 2010?

Based on the sales in 2009 versus 2008 I expect a continued increase in properties sold both in the residential and condominium markets thus reducing the inventory. Also based on the recent sales in late 2009 we can expect prices to stabilize and possibly could see an increase in market prices as the year continues to grow. Unfortunately the townhome market will continue to struggle since there is not much of a market for townhomes, mainly due to the available of quality ocean properties, and prices may continue to slip.

With the probability of the reduction in inventory for 2010 and prices stabilizing and possibly heading upward Buyers still reluctant to purchase during a downtrend may have to rethink their position if they wish to purchase the best properties at the best prices. On the other hand Sellers have now realized that they must reduce their prices to the current market values if they want to have their properties sold. Consequently with an amble supply of Buyers and a reduction in inventory we should see this market turn around, at least in sales for 2010. The only holdback to this would be the banking industry not passing on to the consumer the benefits the government has given these lenders not only in financial support but also in reduced borrowing rates from the Federal Reserve. The banks must open their doors for business again with the same practical lending guidelines they were accustomed to prior to 2004. Presently they have gone from one extreme to the other. This is particularly true for the condominium market.

That being said smart Buyers should recognize that the current market creates an excellent time to purchase a property. The Buyers who choose to wait much longer may be saying, in years to come, what all of us heard in 2005 "I should have purchased this property when I had the chance two years ago"! Sellers, on the other hand, should not take this as an upswing in market pricing. It is not. Seller's attempting to price their properties for what they might have commanded in 2005 or even higher than what comparative properties sold for in 2008 and 2009 will be pricing their properties out of the market and come up empty handed.

In 2010 - A Stable Market.
Sellers Sell ... Buyers Buy…. Prices Stabilize.
A Win - Win for all.

Realty Times

Interstate 73 gets federal grant

The effort to extend Interstate 73 to Myrtle Beach received a $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation today.
The highway would provide a direct connection from a Michigan city near the Canadian border to Myrtle Beach and is expected to provide an economic boost to the area.
Myrtle Beach is the largest tourist destination in the U.S. without an interstate highway connection, and I-73 would not only allow tourists to travel to the area more easily but could improve economic development.
"This is great news for South Carolina as we're now $10 million closer to completing Interstate 73," said Rep. Alan Clemmons, the chairman of the National I-73/74 Corridor Association, in a statement.
The project was one of only 4 percent of the 1,400 applicants that were awarded the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery discretionary grants.
The grants were created to fund transporation projects that have had difficulty finding money through other programs, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in a statement.
"This will help us meet the 21st century challenges of improving the environment, making our communities more livable and enhancing safety, all while creating jobs and growing the economy," he said in the statement.
The grant could help the project leverage more funds from other accounts or revenue sources, said Rep. Tracy Edge, the co-chairman of the S.C. I-73/74 Association.
"The commitment by the DOT reaffirms the importance of I-73 and provides a sound investment in a very important project," he said in a statement.

from the Sun News

Education in the North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is full of educational opportunities, whether you are enrolling your child in preschool, finding a specialized program for your gifted teen or heading back to school as an adult. Horry County Schools system serves a community of approximately 217,608 residents. It is the third largest district in South Carolina and growing! The Horry County Schools system has received many distinctions and awards for excellence in education. The goal of Horry County Schools system is to become the highest performing school district in South Carolina. We are pleased to offer you the following North Myrtle Beach area schools and places of higher education:

North Myrtle Beach Primary School
901 11th Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582-2509
(843) 663-0195
Fax: (843) 249-8638

North Myrtle Beach Elementary School
1283 Highway 57 S
Little River, SC 29566-7009
(843) 399-8800
Fax: (843) 399-2250

North Myrtle Beach Intermediate School
700 Sandridge Rd
Little River, SC 29566-7505
(843) 399-2204

North Myrtle Beach Middle School
11240 Highway 90
Little River, SC 29566-6724
(843) 399-6136
Fax: (843) 399-2233

North Myrtle Beach High School
3750 Sea Mountain Hwy
Little River, SC 29566-7860
(843) 399-6171
Fax: (843) 399-6509

Snow in North Myrtle Beach SC!

SOUTH CAROLINA (WMBF) - Counties across South Carolina were covered in white Saturday morning after a rare snow storm hit the coast.
Snow in Myrtle Beach tapered off early Saturday with the final flakes falling around 4 a.m. Reports from Horry County saw accumulations from 2.3 inches in Aynor, to 2.5 inches in Conway, 3.5 in Myrtle Beach, 4 inches in Conway and as much as 4.5 inches in Loris. The last time Myrtle Beach saw three inches of snow was Jan. 25, 2000.

Snow in North Myrtle Beach!

Snow in North Myrtle Beach!

Ty Bellamy

Ty Bellamy is the co-owner and operations manager of RE/MAX At The Coast. He has been licensed since 2004. Originally from the North Myrtle Beach area, Ty attended high school just outside of Raleigh, NC. After graduation, Ty moved back home to the beach and attended HGTC and Coastal Carolina University while managing the family business, North Shore Surf Shops. After selling the business in 2004, Ty joined his step-father and partner Scott Ellis in the real estate field. Scott and Ty joined the RE/MAX organization in 2005 and after just a year with the RE/MAX company, Scott and Ty opened RE/MAX At The Coast in 2006.

Scott Ellis is the Owner and Broker-In-Charge of RE/MAX At The Coast. He has been licensed since 1995. Originally from eastern North Carolina, Scott, his wife Ruthanne and son Ty moved to the North Myrtle Beach area in 2004 and opened North Shore Surf Shops. After selling the company, Scott returned to the real estate profession. After several successful years, Scott and his partner Ty opened RE/MAX At The Coast in 2006.

Peggy Weaver

• Twenty eight years as a S.C. high school mathematics teacher and coach
• Chairman of the Mathematics Department
• RE/MAX 100% CLUB, RE/MAX At The Coast Sales Agent of the year 2006, 2007, Century Centurion Producer Award recipient
• Realtor, AREP, CRS, ABR, BROKER
• Licensed in S.C. and N.C.

When my husband asked me back in 1985 if I would mind moving from Florence to the beach, I laughed. Growing up near the beach had enabled me to spend many summer days along our beautiful Grand Strand. Living four years on the south end of the beach and over sixteen years in North Myrtle Beach has provided me with a familiarity and knowledge of Horry County that has served me well. While still teaching, I owned a condo services business for over nine years. My experiences in the condo industry helped me with my decision to go into real estate when I retired in 2003. My work ethics and organizational skills honed as an educator have benefited my real estate clients during their sales and purchases. Excellent service provided to my clients, both during and after a transaction, will always be my main goal.

Whether selling property, buying a second home, or relocating to a primary home, my desire is to make your real estate transaction a pleasant experience. I pride myself on integrity, honesty and taking great care of my clients. Contact me today and let me help you move to the beach, where the weather is great and the sand is warm!

O'neal Bourne

O’Neal is a native of the North Myrtle Beach area of the Grand Strand. Licensed in South Carolina and North Carolina, her background is banking and financing making her job much easier in the real estate world. She is detailed and customer service oriented. Full of energy and a person who treats everyone the way she wants to be treated makes her a great choice to be the real estate salesperson you pick to handle your buying or selling needs. Everyone starts out as a customer, becomes a client then last but most importantly a friend. She believes in loyalty, confidentiality and being accountable to you as her client. Please contact her today and you’ll find out for yourself you have made a new friend on the Grand Strand.

Leeann Campbell

Leeann Campbell joined RE/MAX At the Coat in September 09. Leeann is a Real Estate Proffesional and a member of the National Association of Realtors. She has called the Grand Strand home for 7 years and enjoys touring the beach to find new and exiting ventures to do with her four year old son Jackson and the love of her life Tommy of 6 years. Leeann will use the latest state of the art tools offered by the RE/MAX Brand to better serve you in your real estate needs. Leeann is excited and enthusiatic about what the Real Estate market has in store for her and would like to help you in your next Real Estate transaction! Leeann loves living at the beach and could not imagine living anywhere else. Leeann will privide you with the professional service that you deserve

Jack Hodges

Jack Hodges was Broker-In-Charge of LBI Realty and just recenlty decided to merge with RE/MAX At The Coast. Jack is originally from Florence, SC and attended the Univeristy of South Carolina. After leaving school, he was in real estate sales for six years in the Florence, SC area. After that, he spent time in Miami, Florida and Florence SC where he as a top producer in the field of dental sales for over 33 years. Jack relocated to the North Myrtle Beach area over 12 years ago. His main interest away from the office include golfing, fishing, traveling, (especially to visit with his children and grandchildren) and watching old movies on TV. With over 40 years sales experience, Jack is proud to be able to use this experience to benefit each and every clients. He enjoys working with people and has a wonderful ability to make others around him feel confident that he will give them great service.

Greg Catanzaro

Hello and thank you for visiting! It is our goal as your full service real estate company specializing in the Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle, and Horry County areas, to provide you with superior service at all times. My local expertise and extensive real estate experience will benefit you whether you are serious about buying or selling a home at this time, or are a returning client checking our the many homeowner resources we offer.

Buying a home? I look forward to helping you select the home of your dreams by taking time to listen to your needs and desires.

Selling a home? My real estate expertise and many effective marketing programs will give you the exposure and edge you need to sell your home quickly for top dollar.

Returning Client? I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve you and hope you take advantage of the valuable resources I provide. Come back to visit often?

I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you our enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods that encompass it. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how we can best assist you with your real estate needs.



Sincerely,

Greg Catanzaro

Eileen Henriksen

Make My Beach Your Beach!

Hello and Welcome to the Grand Strand!

I am excited to talk with you and tell you about the area and all the fantastic opportunities there are here in the real estate market. My number one goal is to work closely with you to help you find what you are looking for. I pride myself on listening to my clients and working hard for them.

Are you looking for a home here at the beach? I am licensed in both South Carolina and North Carolina and am able to offer my clients a wide variety of locations and properties to choose from. Condos, single family homes, ocean front, golf community, whatever you are looking for we have right here in the Myrtle Beach area. I look forward to helping you find your perfect place here at the beach.

Maybe you are a seller, looking to move up,down or out of the area? Did you know that over 85% of people looking for a home start on the internet? We will work together to tailor a marketing plan to get your home sold. From listing your property to closing the sale and beyond I am ready to help you.

Donna Gwyn

I am a full-time licensed real estate professional in South Carolina and in North Carolina who represents both buyers and sellers. Whether buying or selling, selecting the right agent is one of the most important decisions that you will make that will determine whether or not you accomplish your real estate goals. Allow me the opportunity to understand your real estate objectives and to use my knowledge and enthusiasm to insure that your objectives are met.

I enjoyed Myrtle Beach as a second home for 20 years and ultimately made the decision to relocate to the area. I will put my knowledge of the area to work for you. I will provide caring and professional service and I pledge to provide you with the real estate services you need to attain your real estate goals. Your "Customer Satisfaction" will be my primary goal. My secondary goal will be that our friendship will continue long after the transaction closes.

CONTACT ME TODAY and allow me the opportunity to show you why it matters which real estate company and real estate agent you select to satisfy your real estate needs.

Brenda Porte

Brenda Porte moved to North Myrtle Beach from Orlando, Florida in May 2000 and received her South Carolina Real Estate license in November 2000. She was licensed in Florida for over 20 years and did general real estate, time share sales, property management and sales and marketing in the real estate profession. She has completed countless hours of advanced studies in sales and real estate procedures and is a proven professional in every way. Brenda is highly motivated to offer her clients and customers superior services, and with a personal attitude. Brenda enjoys working out at the gym, playing tennis, or just quiet time on the beach with her many friends. Brenda believes in setting goals and achieving them. She will always put forth a great effort to insure everyone she works with gets the very best service available.

April Butler

I am a North Carolina native, however, I have called South Carolina home for the last 10 years. Like most people that decide to move to the coast, I was drawn to the beauty of the ocean and the excitement of the Grand Strand. After living at the coast, it is hard to imagine living anywhere else. I have a wonderful husband and two energetic little boys that support me in my career. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family relaxing on our boat.

As a RE/MAX agent licensed in South Carolina and North Carolina, I offer loyalty, honesty, and dedication to all my clients. To me, Real Estate is not only a career, but a passion. Whether I'm working with buyers or sellers, I feel fortunate to be able to assist my clients in achieving their goals. I look forward to the opportunity to work for you!

Multi-million dollar producer award North Myrtle Beach

Scott Ellis and Ty Bellamy broker/owners of RE/MAX At The Coast North Myrtle Beach South Carolina are pleased to announce Peggy Weaver & Eileen Henricksen have been awarded the multi-million dollar producer award. This award is for agents whose annual sales have exceeded $2,000,000.00. We congratulate Weaver and Henricksen in their success and wish them a prosperous 2010.

North Myrtle Beach Homes for Sale

Quaint 3BR charmer nestled among the trees in Windy Hill Woods in the heart of Windy Hill beach. Well maintained home with new tile floors in baths,foyer,kitchen and exterior porches. Spacious back yard with privacy fencing and plenty of shade. 2 car garage and much more. Located only a golf cart ride to thebeach, and golf cart included with acceptable offer. $259,900 3bd/2bath. North Myrtle Beach Home for Sale!


For more information on this home please call Ty Bellamy at 602-7873 or Scott Ellis at 222-7317.
www.lifeatthecoast.com

Little River Real Estate

Little River Real Estate, just listed 813 Redbay Drive Little River South Carolina. If you are an investor or primary homeowner that is looking for a home with a 'built in' tenant, look no further for the best deal in 57th Place. This 3 BR/2BA home is priced to sell QUICKLY. The tenants' lease must be honored. This home is priced to sell and is located in 57th Place, in Little River South Carolina. Please contact Peggy Weaver for more information on this Little River Real Estate.

http://www.theweaverteam.org/
843-602-0517
MLS number 1002965

RE/MAX At The Coast Agent Earns Listing Agent of the Year

Nannette Nelson of RE/MAX at the Coast was named Listing Agent of the Year, at the annual awards celebration on February 9th. This award recognizes an outstanding agent who shows extraordinary commitment to the real estate profession and one which excelled in the amount of properties listed in one year. Nelson had a great year in real estate and won numerous awards throughout the year for listing and selling agent of the month. We congratulate Nannette for a terrific year!

Sales agent of the YEAR!

RE/MAX At The Coast Agent Earns Sales Agent of the Year


Greg Catanzaro was named Sales Associate of the Year for the RE/MAX At The Coast at its annual awards celebration on February 9th. Catanzaro began his career with RE/MAX At The Coast in December 07 and since that time has demonstrated a level of service and professionalism that makes him a leader within the office and in the entire region. "Greg is a model RE/MAX Sales Associate and continues to rise above the rest,” said Scott Ellis broker/owner of RE/MAX at the Coast. We congratulate Greg for an outstanding year in real estate!

Meet our Agents!

Alan Oleson

"MY CLIENTS ARE MY BUSINESS AND MY BUSINESS IS ALL ABOUT SERVICE"
Alan was born and raised in Northern Virginia. He moved to Raleigh, North
Carolina in 1975 and for 21 years was co-owner of 2, family owned convenient
stores. He moved to the beach to fulfill the dream he and his wife have
always had.
Alan is licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina.
He prides himself in being a full-time real estate professional and
represents both buyers and sellers. Allow him to help you with your real estate needs and show you that he will always be committed to giving his clients the service they deserve.

Why North Myrtle Beach? Why RE/MAX At The Coast?

At RE/MAX At The Coast, you will find only knowledgeable and qualified real estate agents who can help you with all your real estate needs. We are thrilled you are looking at real estate in the Myrtle Beach area. Local real estate is in high demand, as relocating retirees, second-home buyers and families looking for coastal living at a reasonable price are increasing each year. All of our real estate associates have been in the area for years and can offer local knowledge on real estate trends, neighborhoods, local schools, and extracurricular activities. So when you decide to become a permanent citizen, second homeowner, or commercial property owner in our area, please give us a call. We provide the kind of service you can rely on and trust.

North Myrtle Beach

While the Grand Strand area of South Carolina has beautiful sparkling beaches and breathtaking scenery, the communities and citizens of the area are close and strong. Behind the many tourists who visit us each year, is a thriving community with open arms to welcome visitors and new residents to the area. As a new resident of North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach area, you’ll enjoy the friendliness and hospitality of your neighbors who also live and work here. With all of the many exciting venues and attractions nearby, the area moves at a slower pace and will truly give your and your family a peaceful environment to reside.

Selling

Thinking about selling your home? Nobody Sells More Real Estate than RE/MAX. Our knowledgeable agents understand your goals and strive to provide guidance along the way. Start by researching your neighborhood to get an idea of what homes near you are selling for.

Local Foreclosures

There are some Great Buys in our area right now...A brief list of foreclosures is below:



Condo's
Salt Grass Villas 2 bedroom 1 bath $59,900 North Myrtle Beach
Little River Golf & Health 2 bedroom 2 bath $69,900 Little River
Carolina Yacht Landing 3 bedroom 2 bath $89,900 Little River
Harbourgate 1 bedroom 1 bath $97,500 Little River
Beach Cottage 2 bedroom 1 bath 99,900 North Myrtle Beach
Carolina Yacht Landing 3 bedroom 2 bath $114,750 Little River
609 Hillside Dr WAIPANI D-2 $127,900 2 bedroom 2 bath North Myrtle Beach

Single Family Homes

2105 Meadowood Lane $121,900 Little River
2210 Vereen Circle $148,900 3/2 Little River
401 C S 28th $198,100 NMb Duplex
134 WOODLYN AVENUE $209,900 3/2/1 Little River
1403 Elizabeth St $239,900 3/3 NMB

Please call RE/MAX At The Coast for more information at 843-663-5663.

2008-2009 Comparisons

December 08 142 condos sold

December 09 231 condos sold



December 08 249 Residential homes sold

December 09-322 Residential homes sold



December 08-34 land sold

December 09-61 land sold

January's agents of the month!

RE/MAX At The Coast would like to announce Alan Oleson as the listing agent of the month and Peggy Weaver as the sales agent! We are so very proud of their efforts to make January so succesful!

overview of January!

The month of January was really awesome if I have to say so myself! We have had 30 new listings! WOW! 2 of our listings are now PENDING! We have scheduled 107 new showings on our listing this month! Last year we had 14 new listings, no pending listings (on our listings anyway), and 80 showings! That is great news for 2010!

Busy!

I have found myself busy as a bee the last few weeks which is really awesome! I am excited that we are get lots of new listing in the area and some new contracts coming in!

November Stats

We're EXCITED to get 2010 started!! Where did the year go? Within a blink of an eye, 2009 is finished and behind us. We are looking forward to another fun filled prosperous and exciting year in 2010.
This is the SOLD activity for November 2009 in Horry and Georgetown County as reported through the CCAR/MLS. I am excited and hopeful that 2010 will continue to be looking up for us!

November 2008

Land 28
Residential 188
Condominium 135


November 2009

Land 51
Res 349
Condo 258