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Beaufort, SC Real Estate News

By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  Similar to a hamster on a wheel I just keep going and going and going.  Exerting just as much energy as running a marathon; however, the distance never proves astonishing and scenery always quite familiar with no one waiting at the finish line to congratulate me. Considered successful by most, respectable by many and crazy by a few, my career has managed to remain intact while running through the mine field that is real estate. No matter what CNN, FOX, or my Momma may have to say to the anxious general public, I just keep running. I keep getting up, hopping on my wheel and run like hell.   It isn’t where I am going that seems to matter, but that I give the very same amount of energy, determination and focus into the act of running. I run through phone call after phone call lathered in...
Comments 12
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  I realize the importance of listings. I work hard to attract realistic sellers, however; there is always that one home that makes me wonder.I believe that in some way the listings we take reflect on us as professionals. Is that crazy? My listings are my inventory, my inventory is my business. My business is where I spend most of my time.   I have done the "We should really paint, you may want to de-clutter, speech" to no avail. This particular property is priced well, yet it lacks the appeal needed to really draw in the buyers. Really drawing in the buyers is a must in this current economy.  It is a constant beauty pageant of homes, showings are the swimsuit competition. It is my job to give the best advice on how to maximize strengths, minimize flaws and wow the audience of buyers wi...
Comments 10
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
No pitter patter of little feet as of yet. No morning sickness, no diaper deliveries or pink and blue blankets. It is just me, my husband, my two fur babies and a desire to make a child smile.  With just a simple request, a simple posting, a simple blog, the amazing people of Beaufort, South Carolina have gone nuts in Staples. It was brought to my attention that in the current difficult economy, many students would be facing the first day of school without even the basics needed to feel prepared. Maybe it was the caffeine, the chocolate, the lack of sleep or no lack of stress, but I sat in my car and cried as if someone stole my cupcake.         In real estate there are few days when I can touch a life, make a clear difference in a way that lifts the heart and encourages the soul. So af...
Comments 8
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Rants, raves, melodramatic madness and overly abundant quotes on everything from respect to religion; Facebook has it all. There are times when this sea of social media turns a tide of amazing human nature. A friend reaches out to be inundated with support, a family in need receives more than enough or a cause otherwise unknown takes a life of its very own. I came across this posting this morning. Sea Island Animal Hospital has been so very kind to me and my fur family for many years. They have eased my fears, even handed me Kleenex when second hand pain was more than I could take. This entire staff works endlessly to aid the unconditional love giving creatures of our little town. Now they need our help. They are trying desperately to save the life of a mother and her four pups. The sto...
Comments 1
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Preparations begin as parents, students, teachers and the orchestra of school year participants fine tune their instruments. Expectations abound as empty classrooms turn into technological time zones, artistic murals and eras of notable past. There is something magical about the first day of school, a clean slate, an empty notebook and the anticipation of friendships, adventures and new opportunities surround the doors to elementary, middle and high schools alike. Summer flip flops give way to sneakers, beach towels bow to gym bags and camps take a back seat to campus. School can be the best place a child goes just as easily as it can be worst. With a fiery red temper, face full of freckles and an affinity for independence, first days of school were always a memorable event. My parent’s...
Comments 5
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  As a former teacher, the first day of school was always a difficult one. I can remember countless students who were afraid or embarrassed because they didn't have the items they needed for their classes. I always did the best I could to provide as many supplies as I could but as all teachers, my budget seemed to prevent me filling all the needs.     I know many teachers will be spending the majority of their paycheck on the needs of their students. Teachers do care and often put their students above themselves. As a new school year begins, I want to help as much as possible. If we can help even just one child feel more confident it will be a success.   I am asking all local Realtors, lenders, inspectors and anyone who can to remember children in need as they prepare for another year. ...
Comments 3
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Sunshine is almost always most appreciated in areas where clouds dwell just as rain is welcomed on dry land and cool wind desired in heat burdened towns. Every coin has two sides one wanted and one worn welcome, it is natural. In every industry, every career and every corner of life there are needed moments of light, a bright spot in an otherwise dimly lit day. Real estate is no different, and possibly even a perfect scenario for yen meets yang. Realtors struggle to remain strong, positive and calm in an economy of twists and turns often times longing for even a glimpse of security or support. Today was a normal day full of phone calls, paperwork and hustle from one appointment to the next; however, a luxury of momentary peace surrounded me during an open house. Open houses are difficul...
Comments 4
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  They can be spotted a mile away, a tell-tale-frown, a scowl that scares small children and the basic assumption that all in their path is in some way a threat to their very being. No matter how helpful one tries to be, the grumpy Realtor plows their way through pleasantries and joy like a bull in a China shop.   Maybe it is the old school must be a bulldog to get anything accomplished mentality or maybe they are so insecure in their professional offerings that their prickly persona serves as protection against those who are able to represent their clients in an outstanding manner with actually having manners.   Possibly it is my deep southern roots that cause my eyes to cross when I am forced to interact with such tactless terrors. I simply do not understand the perception that a real...
Comments 10
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  To those of you that are struggling with the chaos of city living, the constant influx of stress and frustration, and the inability to see the sunset for the progress of the cement jungle...Beaufort can't be that far.   How long has it been since you've seen the still waters of the ocean turn pink, purple, and back to blue?   How long has it been since you spent the day with your best friend?     When did you last catch dinner?       No matter where you are...you can always come home to Beaufort. A place to live, a place to dream, a place to watch the clouds....any day of the week.  
Comments 6
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
cherimie | Ballenger Realty | (843) 812-2090 164 Beach Club Villa, Fripp Island, SC Beautiful Views from this Adorable and Completely Furnished Fripp Island Condo 2BR/2BA Condo offered at $225,000 Year Built 1983 Sq Footage 1,000 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 1 Parking 2 Uncovered spaces Lot Size Unspecified HOA/Maint $232 per month DESCRIPTION The salt air is good for the soul, the sand beneath your toes is good four your health and owning a piece of one of South Carolina's most desirable islands, is just smart business! Invest in your family time, purchase this amazing two bedroom two bath condo that has everything you need for a family getaway, or for an incredible vacation rental property. If you are considering beach property, contact us today to tour our Fripp Isl...
Comments 2
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Not everyone wishes for green acres, not all home seekers thrive on lawn work or exterior maintenance; some prefer the luxury of assistance. There is a steady but certain rise to those who are venturing back to the condo side of town.  During the recent roller coaster recession, we saw the condo population drop drastically. Many credit this with low valuation, decline in interest and financial fatigue in acquiring a loan for anything other than a single family home. I believe many condo owners (primary condo owners) buckled in and sat tight. The recent resurgence of buyers interested in condo communities makes perfect sense to me.  Mainly because my primary residence has been a condo for almost 7 lovely years; I get it. I thoroughly enjoy my pristine grounds, especially due to the simpl...
Comments 4
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
cherimie | Ballenger Realty | (843) 812-2090 615 Prince St, Beaufort, SC Incredbile Opportunity in Historic Downtown Beaufort. Highly Visible Commercial Space, Corner Lot Retail/Commercial offered at $499,000 Year Built 1946 Sq Footage 3,650 Floors 2 Parking Uncovered spaces Lot Size Unspecified Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Incredible commercial property in the heart of downtown historic Beaufort. Over 3600 sqft of well appointed office space, conference rooms, office kitchen, private restrooms and more. Endless possibilities for apartments, flats, office space and low impact multi-use. Located on the corner of Carteret and Prince just moments to the waterfront park, restaurants, historic attractions, University of South Carolina Beaufort and local businesses. see additional photos b...
Comments 2
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
cherimie | Ballenger Realty | cherimie@beauforttime.com | (843) 812-2090 56 Pennyroyal Way, Beaufort, SC Lovely new home conveniently located to both military bases, shopping, restaurants and schools 3BR/3BA Single Family House offered at $218,000 Year Built 2011 Sq Footage 2,100 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size 7,840 sqft HOA/Maint $38 per month DESCRIPTION Such a bright and cheerful home with three extremely spacious bedrooms, ample closets throughout, three well appointed baths complete with ceramic tiled floors and a kitchen perfectly suited for entertaining family and friends. Over 2100 sqft of comfortable family living space is nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac in the new community of Shadow Moss. Located convenient to shopping, resta...
Comments 1
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  There are three simple things your Realtor can and should do to promote your property in the best possible way during the marketing period. Gone are the days of cell phone photos, so long sign in the yard to sell days;  if your Realtor thinks that uploading it to the local MLS is the final finishing touch, it may take you quite some time to reach your goal!   Times have changed, and changing with those times should be the marketing strategies of successful Realtors. There is simply no excuse for inadequately promoting or neglecting a listing. Professional, dedicated Realtors are constantly adapting to the ever changing needs and demands of the market. If you are considering selling your property, make certain your Realtor utilizes the most important tools available.   1.     Professio...
Comments 3
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Soft Spanish moss dances off the branches of historic live oaks, sturdy palms line the entrance reminding all of the diverse character of beautiful Beaufort, South Carolina. Where else can palms and oaks silently guard the very same street? The hope and the vision that the land will turn into a house, a house will turn into a home and homes will create a community.  The beginning of a community is so much more than signs, surveys, and sales. It is a prediction of stability and growth. It is personal and prideful, requiring commitment and faith that each step, each plan will be one more brick in the wall of dreams. Breathing life into an area, giving it a chance and an identity is far more than a listing. It takes time, patience and unwavering dedication. It is with optimistic eyes I ven...
Comments 3
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
Week after week my eyes stare at a blank canvas with certain defeat. I organize closets, polish silverware, scrub door knobs and practice perfecting my less than stellar plank pose with the humble hopes of catching the fleeting thought or idea that will engage, inspire and perhaps entertain. This week I have been given the gift of life meaning that I have lived some of the most human, most ordinarily outstanding, most awkwardly awful, and miraculously mundane moments one can experience leaving me with a wealth of words worthy of writing. I attended Beaufort Water Festival. The challenge presented in this gift of ordinary proportions is the simple quandary of what to write and what to preserve for future ration. Certainly there will be weeks where monotony prevails leaving me lost with b...
Comments 4
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
After almost ten years in an industry known to discourage sobriety and encourage aging, I fancy myself as experienced. Having sold hundreds of homes, shown thousands, inspected inspections to the point of delirium and argued appraisal with Shakespearean eloquence; I consider myself knowledgeable and well versed in the topsy –turvy realm of real estate. All that is fine and dandy until I stare through the eyes of my most difficult client to date; standing a mere 5’3” with a mouth the size of Texas and a coffee cup to match, the mirror proclaims the challenge. Presently I own two properties. I live in a charming waterfront community in an adorable condo that has been home to me for almost six years. Although it was built in the late 70’s, its character, location, and view had me at Hello!...
Comments 117
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
The storm fades signs of destruction paramount and all that remains is the necessary clean up, recovery and humble attempts to salvage even an ounce of dignity, pride and often reputation. Debris clutters the hallways as you try in earnest to put together the pieces of the clouded hours. Evidence of climatic chaos and confusion are found at every turn. Just days ago home was a place of solace now it is a place of surrender and shame. Reaching for hydration and squinting through the medicine cabinet, the realization settles; it is Monday after Water Festival. This day was a thing of certainty, although the aftershock seems worse than expected. The solemn vow made just one year ago is shattered after the tornado of temptation twirled through our peaceful little town and took absolutely no...
Comments 0
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
  During my time as a contributor for The Island News I have poked fun at many people in my life — my husband, my best friend, Momma and Daddy, my Mammaw and even some poor princess of pretention at my favorite coffee shop. I have shared their strengths and challenges with the world all the while hiding behind the mask of my keyboard. Throughout my entertaining exposés, I have given tiny glances of the oddity that is me. Now with tremendous trepidation, I turn the power of my pen, poking it directly at myself. The unavoidable birth of Backwoods Barbie has magnified many of my insecurities, emphasized my obscurities and without a doubt painted an unusual, yet honest, picture of a girl with a very strange name from a very small town. Against my better judgment and with my best merlot, I s...
Comments 20
By Cherimie Crane
(Cherimie Crane & Associates)
No one has appointed me to the coveted position of Marketing Miracle Worker nor have I been voted in as Community Countess; however, I have sold a few homes, revived a community or two and managed to do so without being forced into exile. Numerous articles have been eloquently written with poetic prowess on exactly how to market and/or turn around a sluggish community.  Unfortunately the current economy has given way to a tremendous amount of experience in moving property in an area that an earthquake itself couldn’t budge. Realtors work closely with builders, developers, and even area residents in doing everything in their power to revive a comatose community. It certainly isn’t for the faint of heart nor is it for the full of ego. There are a few classic faux pas that can and will pro...
Comments 4