http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/rss/feedsWhether you are being forced to relocate due to work or have made the choice on your own, please let me be the first to welcome you to our delightful little community!Thu, 30 Apr 2026 05:40:29 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/where-creativity-comes-to-life-discovering-the-venue-mtp-1http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/where-creativity-comes-to-life-discovering-the-venue-mtp-1 There’s something about the arts that has always felt like home to me. Whether it’s stepping into a gallery, watching a live performance, or seeing creativity come to life in unexpected ways, the arts have this incredible way of bringing people together. They tell stories, spark connection, and create moments that stay with you long after the curtain closes. Living in Mount Pleasant, I’ve always appreciated the charm of a community that supports local businesses and creativity and for the first time in a long time there’s been an exciting new addition that truly elevates the local arts scene. The Venue MTP—a brand new community arts center that is filling a void in the Mount Pleasant area. From the moment you walk in, you can feel that this space was created with intention. The welcoming lobby sets the tone, complete with a ticket window and gallery-ready walls that invite artists to showcase their work. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger a little longer, taking it all in. But what makes this venue truly special is its versatility. The Venue MTP was thoughtfully designed to support a wide range of artistic and community experiences: Two flexible studio spaces, including a cushioned-floor studio perfect for dance, yoga, and movement-based classes A main theater with a fully modular stage, ready to transform for everything from plays and improv to concerts and lectures It’s a space where creativity can truly thrive. Here is why I am excited to have The Venue MTP in our community: For families, it’s a chance to introduce kids to the arts. For creatives, it’s a place to share their gifts. For all of us, it’s an invitation to slow down and experience something meaningful. If you’re local (or even just visiting), I highly recommend adding The Venue MTP to your list. Whether you’re attending a performance, taking a class, or simply stopping by to see what’s happening, you’ll leave inspired. Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:51:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/the-best-boatfriendly-neighborhoods-in-mount-pleasant-sc-1http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/the-best-boatfriendly-neighborhoods-in-mount-pleasant-sc-1 There’s something special about living in Mount Pleasant. It’s not just the proximity to the beaches or downtown Charleston, it’s the lifestyle. And for many of my clients, that lifestyle includes being on the water. Whether it’s early morning fishing trips, sunset cruises through the creeks, or docking at your favorite waterfront restaurant, having boat access right from your neighborhood is a game changer. As a local realtor, I get asked all the time: “Where can I live in Mount Pleasant and easily keep my boat?” Let’s dive into some of the best boat-friendly neighborhoods that truly deliver that Lowcountry lifestyle. Cooper Estates Known for its established feel, this neighborhood features a community boat landing and dock on Shem Creek, offering excellent access to the harbor. Boat Storage Insight: On-Property Boat Storage available. There is no governing HOA which restrictions. You can often store your boat on your property (driveway, side yard, or backyard). Hidden Cove Offers a serene, family-friendly lifestyle, featuring beautiful waterfront homes, a community dock and boat ramp for easy water access, plus resort-style amenities like a clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts for residents to enjoy. Boat Storage Insight:If your property allows, your boat may be stored behind the home (rear yard), screened from view, or in a garage. In reality: many homes in Hidden Cove don’t have ideal layouts for discreet on-site storage, especially for larger boats. So many homeowners use nearby marina options like Hidden Cove Marina which offer: Dry stack storage Wet slips Annual ramp access Brickyard Plantation Located along Horlbeck Creek, this neighborhood offers a private boat ramp and community dock, making it easy to get out on the water whenever you want. Boat Storage Insight: Dedicated boat storage within the neighborhood Includes boat ramp and community dock Storage is typically part of HOA amenities with additional access considerations Dunes West This gated community sits along the Wando River and offers a private boat ramp and dock facilities, ideal for residents who want convenience without necessarily owning a waterfront lot. Boat Storage Insight: Dedicated dry boat storage facility (gated) within the community Approx. 140 storage spaces for boats/trailers under 30 feet Private boat ramp + dock access for members Storage is typically an additional annual fee I’On I’On is known for its picturesque streets and strong sense of community but what many people don’t realize is that it also offers boat access. With community docks and access to Hobcaw Creek, it’s a hidden gem for boaters who want a more walkable, neighborhood-focused environment. Boat Storage Insight: Access through The Creek Club (membership-based) Includes community dock and boat ramp Storage options are limited onsite, so many residents use nearby marinas or keep boats offsite One of the best things about Mount Pleasant is that there isn’t just one way to live the boating lifestyle. With many neighborhoods offering docks, lifts, and creek access, there are plenty of opportunities to find the perfect fit. Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:32:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/meet-lauren-cox-a-local-realtor-serving-mount-pleasant-and-the-charleston-areahttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/meet-lauren-cox-a-local-realtor-serving-mount-pleasant-and-the-charleston-area Hi there! I'm Lauren Cox, a full-time Realtor, wife, and mom to two busy boys living in beautiful Mount Pleasant, SC. Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Let me share a little about who I am and how I got here. My journey to real estate might surprise you. I didn't start out in sales or marketing, I started in engineering. I earned my degrees from Clemson University and The Citadel and went on to earn my Professional Engineering License. For two decades, I built a career focused on analyzing properties, managing environmental programs and solving complex challenges throughout the Charleston area. As an engineer, I loved the analytical side of the work. Evaluating land, understanding regulations, and breaking down complicated systems into clear solutions was incredibly rewarding. But over time, I realized something was missing. I wanted more connection with people. What I truly enjoyed most was helping others navigate important decisions, studying market trends, and negotiating the best possible outcomes. Real estate offered the perfect blend of everything I loved, analysis, strategy and most importantly, helping people reach their goals. So I made the leap. I traded blueprints for dream homes and stepped into the world of real estate. Today, I'm proud to serve as full-time Realtor with Mt. Pleasant Dream Homes, helping buyers and sellers navigate the ever-changing real estate market in Mount Pleasant and the greater Charleston area. My engineering background gives my clients a unique advantage. I bring a detail-oriented mindset, strong analytical skills, and a strategic approach to every transaction, whether we're evaluating a home's value, negotiating an offer, or navigating the complexities of the market. Why I Love Calling Mount Pleasant Home One of the things I love most about Mount Pleasant is its incredible sense of community. It has that perfect balance of small-town charm with coastal beauty. From locally owned shops to beautiful waterfront views, it's a place that feels both welcoming and special. Some of my favorite local spots include The Village Bookseller, The Art Place Studio, and Sena Cafe, places that give Mount Pleasant its unique character and can't be replicated anywhere else. I also love spending time outdoors at some of the area's most beautiful spots like the Shem Creek Boardwalk and the Pitt Street Bridge. Between the parks, trails and waterfront views, it's easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Many evenings you'll find my husband, kids and me exploring the neighborhoods near our home by golf cart or bike. Cruising through Old Village or stopping to watch the sunset are some of our favorites. Recently, I had the oppurtunity to serve as a docent for the Preservation Society of Charleston's Old Village Tour. I loved sharing the story of the first house built in Mount Pleasant, on the 'mount' where the town actually got its name. Learning and sharing that history reminded me just how special this community truly is. Advice for Anyone Moving to Mount Pleasant If you're thinking about moving to Mount Pleasant, my biggest piece of advice is simple: take your time exploring. Every neighborhood has its own personality and charm. Some areas offer easy access to the beach, others are close to top-rated schools, and some have wonderful walkable communities filled with local shops and restaurants. The key is finding the place that fits your lifestyle. And once you're here, jump into the community. Visit the farmers market, explore the parks and waterways, and support the local businesses that make this town so unique. It won't take long before you understand why so many people fall in love with calling Mount Pleasant home.Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:31:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/should-you-sell-your-mt-pleasant-home-this-fall-or-wait-until-spring-2026http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/should-you-sell-your-mt-pleasant-home-this-fall-or-wait-until-spring-2026 If you’re a homeowner in Mt. Pleasant, SC, you may be asking yourself a familiar question: is it better to put your home on the market now, or wait until the traditional spring rush? It’s a decision many sellers wrestle with, especially when timing can influence everything from how quickly a home sells to the price it commands. The answer depends on your timeline, the condition of your home, and your goals—but looking at what’s happening in our local market right now gives us some useful clues. Where the Market Stands Mortgage rates have eased in recent months, giving some buyers the breathing room they’ve been waiting for. The average 30-year fixed rate is sitting at around 6.26%, noticeably lower than where it was earlier this year. Pair that with the fact that Mt. Pleasant home prices remain strong—July’s median sale price was roughly $960,000, nearly ten percent higher than the year before—and you can see why sellers still have an advantage. Even with more homes coming to market across the Charleston region, inventory is still lean at about three and a half months’ supply. A balanced market would be closer to four to six. In other words, sellers still have leverage, but pricing and preparation matter more than ever. Why Selling This Fall Has Appeal Fall in Mt. Pleasant brings a unique set of advantages. With fewer homes typically listed in the cooler months, your property naturally gets a bigger share of buyer attention. The buyers who are active at this time of year are often serious—relocating for work, making changes ahead of the new year, or moving for personal reasons that can’t wait. The easing of interest rates is also nudging hesitant buyers back into the search, and there’s no denying that Mt. Pleasant shows off its charm beautifully in the fall light. Of course, selling in the fall isn’t without its trade-offs. The buyer pool is smaller than it will be in the spring, which may mean fewer showings, even if those buyers are more motivated. Shorter daylight hours and holiday schedules can also make showings a little trickier to arrange. Still, for sellers with move-in-ready homes or a clear relocation timeline, the benefits often outweigh the challenges. The Case for Waiting Until Spring On the other hand, waiting until spring has its own set of advantages. Historically, spring brings the largest wave of buyers to the market. Nationally and locally, the “best weeks” to sell often fall in mid-spring, when buyer demand tends to peak. By holding off, you also give yourself more time to complete repairs, updates, and landscaping projects that can help your home shine. Some forecasts suggest mortgage rates could drift lower into 2026, which may further boost buyer confidence. The flip side is that you’ll face more competition. Many of your neighbors will be listing at the same time, which means your home will have to work harder to stand out. As inventory slowly builds in our region, there’s also the chance that price growth could cool if supply continues to catch up with demand. And of course, forecasts are never guaranteed—rates and buyer demand can change direction quickly. What This Means for Mt. Pleasant Sellers The good news for Mt. Pleasant homeowners is that our market continues to perform well, even compared to the broader Charleston area. Prices have climbed steadily, and homes here are still selling in a healthy timeframe of about sixty days. For sellers who price wisely and present their home thoughtfully, opportunities exist in both the fall and the spring. The Bottom Line If your home is already in great shape and you’re ready to make a move soon, this fall could be an excellent time to list. You’ll face less competition and benefit from a market that still leans in favor of sellers. If, however, your home needs some attention or you simply want access to the widest possible pool of buyers, waiting until spring 2026 may give you the edge you’re looking for. Ultimately, the best time to sell is the one that aligns with your life and your goals. Market conditions matter, but so does your readiness and comfort. Whether you decide to move forward this fall or prepare for spring, having a clear plan will ensure you’re ready to make the most of your moment. Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:38:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/is-it-too-late-in-the-year-to-move-to-mt-pleasant-1http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/is-it-too-late-in-the-year-to-move-to-mt-pleasant-1 If you're planning a move to Mt. Pleasant, the question of when can loom large. Maybe your job just transferred you. Maybe your lease ends in a month. Or maybe you're chasing a dream of coastal living—but you're wondering if it’s already too late in the year to make the leap.The short answer? Absolutely not. Mt. Pleasant welcomes newcomers year-round, and while the seasons each offer their own quirks, moving later in the year can come with distinct advantages—especially when you know what to expect.Let’s walk through what makes each season unique for movers, what locals are saying, and how our team’s experience helping families relocate to Mt. Pleasant can guide your perfect landing. The Seasonal Breakdown: What Time of Year Really Means Spring: The Traditional Favorite Spring has long been viewed as the "ideal" time to move. The weather is warm but not stifling, homes are fresh on the market, and if you have children, it gives them a chance to finish out the school year before transitioning to something new. This time of year is especially popular among families planning ahead—and that means the housing market can be competitive.But spring isn’t always an option, especially if life calls for something more immediate. And that’s okay. As we often remind our clients, “There is no ‘perfect’ time—just the right time for your family.” Summer: Busy, Bright, and Full of Movement Moving during summer can seem like the obvious choice—school’s out, the days are long, and you can settle in without disrupting your kids’ routines. In Mt. Pleasant, many families arrive during these warmer months, aiming to get settled before the new school year begins. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Movers and rental trucks book up fast, prices tend to peak, and Charleston’s summer heat can turn the process into a sweaty marathon. Still, if you’re looking for a swift transition and have flexibility in budget and schedule, summer moves are manageable—and common. As one new Mt. Pleasant resident shared in a popular relocation forum: “We moved from Jersey in July so we could get our son enrolled before the first day of school. It was hot—but worth it.” Fall: The Underrated Sweet Spot If you’re reading this and it's already late summer or early fall, take heart—this may be one of the best times to move to Mt. Pleasant. The crowds thin out, moving costs begin to dip, and the weather becomes far more cooperative than the humid highs of June and July. With schools back in session and less demand on movers, families often find greater flexibility in scheduling their move, negotiating on homes, and even securing deals on moving services. There’s also the bonus of having time to get settled before the holiday season, with just enough of the year left to meet new neighbors, explore the Lowcountry lifestyle, and make your new house feel like home. We highly recommend fall to clients with flexible timelines, especially those prioritizing value and ease over peak convenience. Winter: Less Stress, More Savings Winter moves might sound unconventional—but in Mt. Pleasant, they’re far from impossible. Charleston’s winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dipping into the freezing range. That means you won’t have to worry about icy roads or blizzards slowing down your move. In fact, moving in the winter can save you money. Fewer people are relocating during the holidays, so moving companies often offer better rates, and home sellers may be more open to negotiations. The downside? You’ll need to work around potential holiday closures and fewer daylight hours—but those are minor trade-offs if you’re on a budget or tight timeline. One family moving from Massachusetts shared on a forum that they waited until October to enjoy one last New England fall, and then made the trek down to Mt. Pleasant with no regrets: “It was quiet, easy to settle in, and we were able to get a better deal on a home.” Is It Ever Too Late? When it comes to relocating to Mt. Pleasant, timing is less about the calendar and more about your personal circumstances. If your job, your family life, or your finances align with a move—even if it’s December—it’s not too late. What truly matters is having a clear plan, knowing your needs, and working with professionals who understand the local market. Whether you need to register your kids mid-year for school, coordinate with a cross-country moving company, or find a short-term rental while your new home closes, these are all manageable with the right guidance. The reality is: Mt. Pleasant’s real estate market never really sleeps. There’s always activity, always new listings, and always families making the move, even when it’s not "textbook timing." How Our Team Can Help For new movers arriving later in the year, our team offers tailored support—from understanding school enrollment dates to connecting with local service providers and helping you feel part of the community before your boxes are even unpacked. Our relocation toolkit includes timelines, referrals, and insider guidance you simply won’t get from national websites. What makes our approach special is our belief that a move is more than logistics—it’s emotional. It’s about starting a new chapter with confidence and clarity, no matter when that chapter begins. The Bottom Line So, is it too late in the year to move to Mt. Pleasant? Not at all. In fact, depending on your priorities, it might be the best time. Whether you're hoping to stretch your budget, avoid the crowds, or take advantage of seasonal calm, moving later in the year can offer perks you won't find in peak months. And with the right support—from real estate experts like our team, from local schools, and from the warm community spirit Mt. Pleasant is known for—you won’t just arrive, you’ll belong. Planning your move now? Reach out to Lauren and the Mt. Pleasant Dream Homes team for personalized support. From neighborhood insights to off-season relocation tips, they’ll help you make the transition smooth, strategic, and truly exciting—no matter what month the calendar says. Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:23:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/6-clear-signs-you-should-relocate-your-familyhttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/6-clear-signs-you-should-relocate-your-family Have you been casually tossing around the idea of picking up and relocating your family? Are you hesitating because you aren’t sure if it would be the right thing to do? Let me be the first to tell you that you are far from alone in that! As a Realtor that specializes in helping relocating families move to Mount Pleasant, I can tell you first hand that there are a lot of reasons why people choose to relocate but here are the most logical. 1. You Know Your Kids Are Not Getting The Education They Deserve As a parent, one of your biggest responsibilities is to empower your children and their future with education. Many people buy homes long before they have children and by the time their kids get into school, they begin to feel stuck and frustrated. While schools shouldn’t be the only reason you decide to relocate, they are an important factor. I suggest you either rent out your current home or sell it and purchase in a place where you can get great bang for your buck as well as access to better schools. 2. You Are Ready For A Better Lifestyle If there is one thing that came out of the pandemic, it is millions of people realising they have really outgrown their homes. I am so excited to see that more and more people aren’t buying their homes just based on the beds and baths but rather on the type of lifestyle that the home will afford. For example, many people buy homes here in Mount Pleasant because they want to live a healthy lifestyle, enjoy the water and love golf. So if your current home is not affording you the lifestyle you want to live, you may want to relocate. Life is short after all. 3. You Want To Be Closer To Family I’ll say it again, life is short and what could be more important than family? If you have been living far away from those you hold most dear and want to start making up for lost time, it may just be in your best interest to relocate. Even if it would be financially uncomfortable, you can always make more money but you can never get back time you would have had making memories with your loved ones. 4. There Are Better Occupational Opportunities Sometimes we wind up in cities that simply don’t have much in the way of opportunity for our chosen career path. I think it is sad to see so many people who have placed themselves under a mountain of student loan debt just to wake up and realize that they are living somewhere that has a definite ceiling on their growth and income potential. You deserve to do what you love and earn a livable wage while doing it so if your current town is holding you back professionally, it might be time to move on and move up. 5. The Local Economy Isn’t In Your Best Interest Another big financial factor to consider is the local economy. Don’t get me wrong, every economy will experience ups and downs. However, there are some cities that are so rank with corruption that it is nearly impossible to flourish. If you can honestly say that there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight for your local economy to recover, it might be time to get out of there. 6. You Have Outgrown Where You Currently Live Last but not least, sometimes we outgrow the place where we live. I think this is more common with people that stay in the town where they went to college after they graduate or even the town where they grow up. While there is certainly nothing wrong with that, there are times where that really isn’t in your best interest. So if you feel like you would be a better version of yourself if you lived elsewhere, it might be time to stick that for sale sign in the yard my friend. Planning To Move To Mount Pleasant? Allow me to be the first to congratulate you on your very wise decision to move to Mount Pleasant! Our sunny little lowcountry suburb is safe, fun, and the perfect place to raise a family. If you need help finding the perfect Mount Pleasant home for your family to grow into, give me a call today and I will assemble a shortlist of available properties that meet your needs. Already have a home here? Be sure to subscribe to my blog for more weekly tips on how to make the most of your life in and around Mount Pleasant.Wed, 01 May 2024 13:04:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/selling-success-in-charleston-7-steps-to-prep-your-home-for-a-spring-salehttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/selling-success-in-charleston-7-steps-to-prep-your-home-for-a-spring-sale As the spring season approaches here in Charleston, SC, potential home sellers have an opportunity to make the most of this real estate market. To ensure your home stands out and attracts the right buyers, here are seven essential steps to take before listing your property for sale: Southern Charm Starts at the Doorstep Impress potential buyers from the moment they arrive. Spruce up your home's curb appeal by refreshing the landscaping, painting the front door, and ensuring that the entryway is warm and welcoming. A great first impression sets the tone for the entire showing. Declutter and Depersonalize Create a blank canvas for potential buyers by decluttering and depersonalizing your living spaces. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and any unnecessary knick-knacks. This allows buyers to envision their own life within the home and makes rooms appear more spacious. Brighten Up with Spring Cleaning A thorough spring cleaning is more than just a tradition—it's a crucial step in preparing your home for sale. Clean windows, dust surfaces, and pay extra attention to commonly overlooked areas. A sparkling clean home signals to buyers that your property has been well-maintained. Fix and Freshen Attend to any minor repairs or updates that may catch the discerning eye of potential buyers. Fix leaky faucets, replace worn-out hardware, and touch up paint where needed. A well-maintained home speaks volumes about its overall condition and helps justify the asking price. Upgrade with a Splash of Color Consider adding a splash of color to key areas of your home. Fresh paint or strategically placed accent pieces can breathe new life into spaces, making your property more appealing to potential buyers. Stick to neutral tones to appeal to a broad audience. Showcase Unique Features Charleston is known for its distinctive charm and architectural features. Highlight any unique aspects of your home, whether it's historical details, a charming courtyard, or stunning views. These features can be significant selling points for prospective buyers. Unlock the Potential with a Free Valuation Analysis Ready to set the perfect price for your Charleston home? Before listing, call me for a free, no-obligation valuation analysis. I'll provide you with a comprehensive list of strategic improvements and personalized insights on maximizing your sales price. Taking this step will ensure that your property is positioned competitively in the market, attracting serious buyers who appreciate the value you've created. Don't miss out on the opportunities that spring brings to the real estate market in Charleston. Contact me today to schedule your free valuation analysis and take the first step towards a successful and profitable home sale. Your dream sale is just a call away!Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:33:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/2024-charleston-market-updatehttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/2024-charleston-market-update University of South Carolina research eonomist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen recently provided a Residential Market Update to the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors. Here are some key points from his update: Cooling Economy - We continue to move away from an overheated economy to a more stable economy by slowly cooling off. Recession is a risk if we cool too long or too fast. Recession Likely? - It depends, so far we appear to be on track for a soft landing rathan than a recession. We are not out of the woods yet though. The Feds are still aiming to decrease inflation to 2% but they don't want to lower the inflation to the point of recession. Resilient Jobs and Consumer Spending - The strength of the labor market is a good predictor of housing demand and we are currently experiencing a resilient job market. Consumer spending is expected to remain steady in 2024. Inflation Still a Threat - Wages have grown approximately 14.5% since December 2020; and inflation has grown more at approximately 18%. This means inflation is still affecting our purchasing power. Interest Rates - Housing is at the front line in battle with inflation because housing purchases are tied to both inflation and interest rates. Most of the Fed rate hikes are likely behind us though as they are unlikely to raise rates again in 2024. Housing Sales and Price - Normally if home sales go down like they did in 2023 the prices should be going down too. But we are seeing prices go up. Reason for this is because of the low inventory that has occured because of a decade long period of underbuilding. People Moving to Southeast - More population gains are expected in the southeast than in any other region through 2040. So demand for homes in Charleston is likely to keep going up. Wed, 14 Feb 2024 10:34:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/what-should-you-look-for-in-a-mt-pleasant-realtorhttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/what-should-you-look-for-in-a-mt-pleasant-realtor Getting ready to buy or sell real estate in Mount Pleasant? If you are anything like most people, you know it is in your best interest to arm yourself with a tenacious Realtor. However, many people struggle to know what they are supposed to look for in a real estate agent and as a result, they choose the wrong one! I am not trying to scare you but the truth is if you hire the wrong real estate agent it can have massively negative consequences like: The destruction of a personal relationship like a friend The loss of thousands or millions of dollars to the point of bankruptcy Nasty lawsuits And so much more! I am always so heartbroken to hear these horror stories. Especially, when they could have easily been avoided by choosing a more qualified real estate agent to represent you. So today, I am walking you through exactly what you need to do to find the best possible real estate agent in Mount Pleasant to represent you. What Do They Specialize In? There are two kinds of real estate agents out there; those that specialize in a certain type of real estate and become true experts and those that just need to take whatever clients they can get. Obviously, as a buyer or seller you would be much better off to work with a Realtor that is an expert in handling situations like yours. For example, I am a relocation specialist so I primarily focus on helping families relocate to or from Mt. Pleasant and the surronding area in the most seamless, stress-free way possible. Before you hire any agent, ask what they specialize in and if they say they don’t have a niche or tell you “listings or buyers”, they are not worthy of your business. Are They Willing To Do An Interview? There is not an agent on this gorgeous planet that deserves your business if they are not at least willing to go through an interview process. Despite the fact that you might not even have to pay your agent (the sellers pay for both agents), this is still a job and you need to treat the position that way. This person will play a major role in your family’s overall financial well being and that deserves a formal interview with tough questions and standards. Oh, and please don’t forget to actually check their references rather than just assume their online testimonials are legitimate. How Many Clients Do They Have? Some people hire agents based on the fact that they perceive them to be the most popular in town. Well here’s the thing; although it is a testament that they could be a good agent, you need to be wary. Some agents are so consumed with collecting paychecks that the clients take the back burner. If they don’t have the right staff and systems in place to support having so many clients you would be better off with an agent that has none. Will They Negotiate Their Commission? So many people insist on trying to negotiate the agent’s commission down. Here’s why this is such a dangerous mistake: If they won’t fight for their own money, what makes you think they will fight for your money? If you are paying them 2% and all of their other clients are paying the full 3%, who do you think will get the better service and results. If you ask an agent to lower their commission and they quickly agree, run the other way! Planning To Move To Mount Pleasant? Allow me to be the first to congratulate you on your very wise decision to move to Mount Pleasant! Our sunny little lowcountry suburb is safe, fun, and the perfect place to raise a family. If you need help finding the perfect Mount Pleasant home for your family to grow into, give me a call today and I will assemble a shortlist of available properties that meet your needs. Already have a home here? Be sure to subscribe to my blog for more weekly tips on how to make the most of your life in and around Mount Pleasant.Tue, 09 Jan 2024 11:12:00 -0700http://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/options-for-schools-in-mt-pleasanthttp://www.mtpleasantdreamhomes.com/blog/post/options-for-schools-in-mt-pleasant As a parent, there are few things that are more important to you than your child’s education. After all, it is our job as parents to give them the best possible resources and preparation for success in life, right? So it is no surprise that when I am working with families attempting or contemplating a move to Mount Pleasant that they want to know all they can about the schools. While there are many schools for families to choose from, I wanted to take this opportunity to highlight some of the schools we have available in Mount Pleasant. Whether you are planning to move to Mount Pleasant or have children that are nearing the school age, I hope this article gives you the information and perspective you have been looking for. Please share so that other families can learn about our Mt. Pleasant schools. Mt. Pleasant Academy The first thing that any parent should know about Mount Pleasant Academy is that it has been awarded the National Blue Ribbon School Of Excellence award. Mount Pleasant Academy is a Charleston County School District neighborhood school situated in the Old Village of Mt. Pleasant. They have a strong academic focus but the students are the heart and soul of everything they do. Currently, they serve over 600 children from the ages of four through the fifth grade. Moultrie Middle School Moultrie Middle School sits right in the heart of the oh-so-charming historic village district. Moultrie serves a student body of 900 students in grades six through eight with a focus on experiential learning. Parents are proud to send their children here thanks to the fact they the school consistently earns excellent ratings on the South Carolina Report Card and the Palmetto Gold status as a high performing school. Lucy Beckham High School One of the newest campuses to be completed in Mount Pleasant is the massive Lucy Beckahm which is beautifully nestled on over 44 acres right in the heart of Mount Pleasant. Lucy Beckham was founded with the mission to foster intelligence, challenge students to live with integrity and promote civic involvement through a bold and innovative Culture. Students can choose from curriculum pathways in either science & innovation or arts, humanities, and design. There is also a strong focus on the athletics program which includes everything from baseball to swimming. East Copper Montessori Charter School Unlike traditional public schools, you will need to apply to have your child admitted to the East Copper Montessori Charter School. In case you are not yet familiar with it; The Montessori Method fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth for children and adolescents in all areas of their development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical. They have less than 400 students between grades Pre-K through 8th which means there is a wonderful student-to-teacher ratio and the school has earned an excellent rating on their report card. Need Help Finding A Home In Mount Pleasant? Well, my friend, the good news is you have definitely come to the right place! I eat, sleep, and breathe Mount Pleasant real estate and it is one of my life’s greatest joys to help families relocate to Mount Pleasant. When you hire me to help you find your Mt. Pleasant home, not only will you get my services for free but you will have me advocating for you and anticipating your every need to ensure your move is as easy and joyful as possible! Give me a call today to get your Mount Pleasant search started and don’t forget to grab your copy of The Definitive Guide To Relocating To Mount Pleasant! Fri, 20 Jan 2023 09:42:00 -0700