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Paying property taxes is a necessary part of homeownership. Homeowners need to know about property taxes specific to their jurisdiction. Otherwise, you risk getting fined or other penalties. This article helps outline the basics for homeowners in the Carolinas.

Why do we pay property taxes?

Property taxes generate revenue for local governments to fund public services and community development. Services could include public schools, police and fire departments, road maintenance, parks, libraries, and other community resources.

Property taxes help ensure the availability and quality of these services for residents. Plus, they are considered a fair method of taxation as they are based on the value of the property owned and help distribute the tax burden more equitably.

These taxes provide local governments with a degree of financial autonomy and control over their jurisdictions. They can set tax rates and use the revenue generated to address specific local needs and priorities.

Key points about North Carolina property taxes

Property taxes in North Carolina are determined based on the assessed value of the property and the county’s tax rate. Each county sets its own property tax rate, which is expressed in terms of cents per $100 of assessed value. The tax rate can vary significantly between different counties.

Property evaluations are usually done every four to eight years. The county tax assessor’s office assesses the value of each property within its jurisdiction based on physical condition, location, and comparable sales in the area. This assessment process can result in changes to your property value and, consequently, the amount of property taxes you owe.

If you believe the assessment value is inaccurate, you can typically request a reassessment. The specific procedures and deadlines for filing an appeal vary by county. But to get started, you’ll usually contact your local tax assessor’s office to initiate the appeal process.

You may also qualify for exemptions that reduce property tax liability. Common exemptions include:

Key points about South Carolina property taxes

South Carolina uses an assessment ratio to calculate property taxes. The assessment ratio varies based on the type of property. For primary residences, the assessment ratio is typically 4%, meaning the assessed value is 4% of the property’s market value. For other types of properties, such as commercial or rental properties, the assessment ratio is 6%. As in North Carolina, the county assessor will determine the market value.

One thing to be aware of is that when you buy a new home you will start at the 6% rate. It’s up to you, or your mortgage company, to make sure the county assessor knows that this home is your primary residence, says Donna Williamson, a Saussy Burbank preferred lending partner Highland Mortgage, “If you don’t do that, your payment skyrockets.”

South Carolina property owners also pay a local millage rate. Each county in South Carolina sets its millage rate with one mill equal to one-tenth of a cent. The millage rate is applied to the assessed value of the property to determine the amount of property taxes owed.

Property tax exemptions in South Carolina include:

A state property tax relief program is also available to elderly or disabled individuals with limited income. To learn more about the Property Tax Deferral Program contact your local tax authority.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this latest installment of our Important Things Homeowners Need to Know series. If you missed the article on property insurance, you can still review it. In the meantime, Saussy Burbank is continuing to build high quality homes throughout the Carolinas. Take a virtual tour.

 

 

Although a popular vacation destination, the Myrtle Beach area is also a great place to live. The evolving attractions and activities appeal to your guests, of course, but they also make a great addition to the everyday life for residents. This roundup of top Grand Strand things to do will help you make plans for summer 2023.

Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum

Enjoy some old school, hands-on fun at this museum devoted to pinball arcade games. Retro gaming machines from the 1970s and on let you relive childhood with all its bells, buzzers, and flashing lights. Pay $12 for an hour of fun on the machines. Check the hours of operation in advance (it changes by the week and is only a few afternoons a week) 607 27th Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC

Franklin G. Burroughs – Simon B. Chapin Art Museum

Myrtle Beach’s art museum first opened in 1997. Free to all, the museum features paintings, sculptures, photos and more with 11 galleries of changing exhibitions throughout the year. This summer you can see an exhibition by nationally-known silhouette artist Clay Rice based on the children’s book The Stick. 3100 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC

Surfside Beach Pier

This pier sustained major damage in 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, but Surfside has brought it back to glory again for its 2023 reopening. The Surfside Pier has already been rebuilt at least three times since it was originally built in 1953. After all, there are many friendly fishers looking to get back out with their bait and rods. 11 Ocean Blvd S, Surfside Beach, SC

Surfworks Surf Park

Who says you can’t surf the Grand Strand? This Wavegarden surf park features man-made waves for surfers of all experience levels. Family and friends can view from the pier or try something tamer in the Adventure Lagoon’s pool and diving area. There’s even a pool climbing wall. Surfworks Myrtle Beach also has a volleyball court, playground, and skatepark. 309 Melrose Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC

The Hangout

Keep the surfs up vibe going at The Hangout. New in 2022 and offering live music year-round, this venue boasts 40,000-square-feet of family fun. Check out the art installations, participate in dancing and other contests, play courtyard games, visit the giant sandbox, the mermaid bar, or the foam pit. Or just chill by a fire pit while enjoying an extensive seafood and burgers menu and drinks. 1181 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC

Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar

Ice cream is always a good way to cool off after some fun in the sun. Go a little crazy at this staple for sweet treats. You might want to check out the Grand Strand original, Don’t Worry Beach Happy, with Orange Swirl ice cream topped with a wave of cotton candy and a custom beach sugar cookie. It’s finished with whipped cream and crushed graham cracker. 2461 Coastal Grand Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC

Wheels of Yesteryear

Explore cars of previous era in this Vintage Auto Museum with many classic vehicles and floor-to-ceiling car-related memorabilia. The cars showcased change as owners Paul and Carol Cummings share different makes and models from their collection of over 150 cars. 413 Hospitality Lane, Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

Walk inside one of the four classrooms in this historic school, operational from 1923 until 1958, to better understand the past. You’ll take in original pictures and newspaper clippings while learning about the children who welcomed this wood-framed schoolhouse as a great advancement during segregated times when African American students could don’t attend official “white” schools. 900 Dunbar St, Myrtle Beach, SC

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

Newly renovated in 2021 with new lighting and fresh gondola interiors, this old-timey wheel reaches 200 feet above sea level. SkyWheel is a fun way to take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, the gondolas are climate-controlled, so you can enjoy some cool comfort for the 10 minutes (three wheel rotations) while you take in the spectacular views of the Myrtle Beach promenade and boardwalk too. The wheel is open from 11 am to midnight, but sunset may be the best time to visit.  1110 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC

Ripley’s Aquarium

Found amidst the popular Broadway at the Beach’s restaurants and retail, this Ripley’s outlet is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, and you’ll view an amazing range of them in the 750,000 galloon ocean tank. This year they’ve added a Sloth Valley Habitat and daily Penguin Parades. 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC

Brookgreen Gardens

This sprawling gardens boasts over 9,000 sculptures and floral displays as well as live oaks, magnolias, and azaleas. You can also visit its Lowcountry Zoo to see alligators, otters, and exotic birds. On Wednesday and Saturday nights you can also tour the garden in the evening to enjoy Summer Light: Art by Night. 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC

Pelicans Ballpark

Take yourself out to the ballgame, and buy yourself some peanuts and Cracker Jack at the home to the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. This minor league baseball team is a Single-A-Affiliate for the Chicago Cubs. 1251 21st Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC

SayeBrook from Saussy Burbank

While you’re in the area, check out Saussy Burbank’s new homes in Myrtle Beach. The SayeBrook community encompasses nearly 730 acres two miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Then you can live near the top Grand Strand things to do year round.

Saying a home will anticipate your needs sounds like we’re talking about artificially intelligent (AI) houses. Although you can find Internet-connected fridges that shop for items you run out of, we’re not quite at AI homes just yet. Instead, this article explores aging in place design. This strategic home design anticipates conveniences you could need to stay in your home as you grow older.

What is aging in place design?

Aging in place design embraces universal design principles with a focus on making your home environment safe and comfortable at any age. Smart technology can be part of the design. For example, installing thermostats or lighting that you can control from a smartphone or app while remaining seated. Yet, there are many more ways that homes built with aging in place in mind construct a home that can accommodate changes as you age.

“America is a nation in which the dominant household type, accounting for about 30 percent of households, consists of single adults living alone,” AARP notes in its HomeFit Guide. Yet the housing stock wasn’t built for “a rapidly changing and rapidly aging population.”

Aging in place design is meant to help homeowners remain in their homes longer, comfortably and safely. Choices are made to accommodate residents of all ages and abilities by removing barriers within the home.

Considering current and future needs

Homes designed with aging in place features can look as aesthetically pleasing and welcoming as any other home. Yet, throughout the house you’ll see a variety of accommodations already incorporated into the design. This section rounds up the types of choices you might see in different areas of the home.

Main living areas

Throughout the home you can expect to see design elements such as:

Another idea you could see is closets stacked above one another in a multi-story home to provide a shaft for a future elevator.

Kitchen

Many innovative ideas in the kitchen can help support aging in place too. You might see:

Bedrooms

When thinking about how the aging in place bedroom will look, consider the value of:

Architectural Digest notes, wainscoting, chair rails or shelves protruding from walls can aid with balance too. But they must be securely attached to the wall and thick enough to grip. You might also think about incorporating greater contrast between floor and wall colors and avoiding strong patterns or shiny surfaces which can interfere with depth perception.

Bathrooms

Various accommodations in the bathroom can help provide independent quality of life, with safety prioritized. Options include:

Exterior spaces

Aging in place doesn’t have to mean staying inside all day. Keep outdoor access in mind as well, When making long-term plans, think about incorporating:

Embrace independent living longer with Saussy Burbank

Because each client is different, aging-in-place solutions are not one-size-fits-all. It’s good to work with a custom builder, such as Saussy Burbank, to address your individual concerns. Our Cottages at Marvin Gardens featured 25 single-family residences in an age-restricted (55 and up) community in the village of Marvin, North Carolina. Or join other retirees in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in our new Sayebrook community homes.

 

Home insurance coverage is designed to protect your home and personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or natural disasters. Understanding home insurance is an important part of being a homeowner, so keep reading to learn important things about this essential investment.

Homeowner’s insurance may not be mandated by law in the Carolinas, but you can expect your mortgage company to require it. “Technically, it is our house and we have to protect it,” explains Donna Williamson, at Saussy Burbank preferred lending partner Highland Mortgage.

Williamson suggests shopping around to compare different insurance companies because they can vary so much. She also recommends keeping an eye on your home insurance rates. “Some of them go up quite a bit after the first year,” she says. Or the company might raise your rate along the way, adding something onto the policy you don’t need (e.g., wind and hail coverage or flood insurance).

Key things to know about your homeowner’s insurance

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers the structure of the house, personal belongings, additional living expenses, and liability protection. Liability coverage is critical as it provides protection against claims of property damage or bodily injury caused by the homeowner or their family members.

Your premiums reflect the type of coverage, the location of your home, your credit score, and your deductible amounts. The deductible is what you would be responsible for paying before the coverage takes over. Higher deductibles generally lead to lower premiums, but you should make sure that you can afford to pay the deductible in case of an incident.

It’s also important to understand what your home insurance policy doesn’t cover. Some common exclusions include floods, earthquakes, mold, and some types of water damage. You may need to purchase additional coverage or riders to your policy to cover these risks. Insurers are also not going to protect your home from damage caused by poor maintenance or intentional acts.

It’s a good idea to get an idea of how the claim process works and what steps you’ll need to take. Plan to report any loss to your insurance company as soon as possible and provide any necessary documentation to support your claim. You’ll also want to keep detailed records of all communication and interactions with your insurance company.

Home insurance in North Carolina

North Carolina has specific rules and regulations regarding home insurance. Your policy in North Carolina must cover the full replacement value of the dwelling, which is the cost to rebuild the home in the event of a total loss. The insurance company must provide a written estimate of the replacement cost to the homeowner at least once every three years.

Also, homeowner’s policies in the state are required to offer coverage for wind and hail damage, with a separate deductible. You may have the option to choose a higher deductible for wind and hail damage to lower their premium.

If you’re in a flood-prone area, you will be required to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Good news? North Carolina allows insurance companies to offer discounts for certain safety features, such as smoke detectors, deadbolt locks, and fire extinguishers. The state also requires insurance companies to offer discounts for policyholders who have installed certain wind mitigation features, such as hurricane shutters or reinforced garage doors.

North Carolina law also requires insurance companies to provide a 45-day notice of cancellation for non-payment of premium, and a 60-day notice for any other reason. The notice must be sent by mail or electronic means and must include the reason for cancellation and the effective date.

Home insurance in South Carolina

Similarly, South Carolina has its own regulations regarding home insurance. As in North Carolina, insurers in the state must offer coverage for wind and hail damage, with a separate deductible for these perils. The homeowner may have the option to choose a higher deductible for wind and hail damage to lower their premium.

Homeowners in South Carolina’s flood-prone areas area also required to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

The state has some protections in place too. South Carolina law:

Insure your Saussy Burbank home

Home insurance is one way to help financially protect your home in the event of damage or loss. This article has covered homeowner insurance basics as part of of our Important Things Homeowners Need to Know series. Keep an eye out for our next installment. In the meantime, take a look at our newest properties we’re building in the Carolinas.

With a name like Summerville, you can’t be surprised to learn that this Charleston suburb is a popular place to live. The largest town in Dorchester County, with its own thriving community and rich history, Summerville is also an easy driving distance from the cultural and entertainment options of the “Holy City.” Here are some fun facts about Summerville, SC.

Quality of life in Summerville, SC

Summerville may not be classified as a city, but this large suburban town, has a population of approximately 52,000 people. You get a blend of metropolitan facilities, and attractions along with excellent schools and a great quality of life for families, young professionals, and retirees.

There are several reasons Summerville is considered a great place to live:

  1. Affordable cost of living: Summerville has a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an affordable place to live. Payscale has it at 14% lower than the national average.
  2. Mild climate: Summerville has a mild climate, with pleasant temperatures throughout most of the year. This makes it an attractive place to live for people who enjoy outdoor activities.
  3. Strong economy: Summerville has a strong economy, with a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The unemployment rate in Summerville, SC, is 4.5% compared to the national average of 6.0%.
  4. Excellent schools: Summerville also has an excellent school system, with highly rated public and private schools. This makes it a great place for families with children.

Rich history in Summerville, SC

Summerville’s history spans three centuries. Inhabited since the late 1700s, Summerville was officially established in 1785. Its location on a pine-forested ridge made it an appealing summer refuge for Charlestonians and other inhabitants of the Lowcountry seeking to escape summer heat, mosquitos and disease.

The pine-scented air and natural beauty helped establish Summerville as a popular health resort for people seeking relief from respiratory ailments in the late 1800s. Drawn also by the mild climate, wealthy families began building homes in the area. The town’s historic district today includes over 700 buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Those buildings had to survive the Civil War. Summerville was a strategic location for both the Confederate and Union armies, and several skirmishes were fought in the area. Many of the town’s historic homes were used as hospitals.

Summerville is also known as the birthplace of sweet tea. The first iced tea was served at the Summerville Tea Farm in the late 1800s. Today, you can go and see a 15-foot-tall Mason Jar with the World’s Largest Sweet Tea in the historic downtown.

“Flower Town in the Pines”

You might hear Summerville called the “Flower Town in the Pines.” An abundance of flowers bloom amidst the lush pine forests. The annual Flowertown Festival features stunning gardens and floral displays downtown, particularly azaleas and roses.

In its 50th year in 2023, the three-day event features live music, arts and crafts, and food vendors. Typically held the first weekend in April, the event is one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in the Southeastern United States, drawing in over 200,000 visitors each year.

More to do in Summerville, SC

Summerville is located just 30 minutes from Charleston, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Yet, the town itself it a popular place for residents and visitors to enjoy recreational activities. Several top golf courses are in and around town, including the Pine Forest Country Club, Legend Oaks Golf Club, and Summerville Country Club.

Plus, Summerville, SC, is home to several parks and nature trails, including the scenic Sawmill Branch Trail, a 10-mile paved trail that connects Summerville to the neighboring town of Ridgeville. Azalea Park features beautiful gardens, a playground, and a walking trail.

The Ashley River and nearby lakes and ponds also provide boating and fishing opportunities. Nearby lakes and ponds also offer fishing for bass, catfish, and other species.

Saussy Burbank in Summerville

Overall, Summerville, SC, is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry and the advantages of a bigger city. You can soak up a rich history (and enjoy some sweet tea) when you find your forever home in this thriving community.

Saussy Burbank’s Midtown community offers our quality crafted homes, centered around peaceful parks and dynamic destinations. Find out more.

 

A mortgage is typically part of every homeowner’s journey. Unless you can pay cash upfront, you’ll take out this type of loan for your purchase. Once you are living in the home, you might also look to refinance. For this article, part of our What Homeowners Need to Know series, we asked our Charlotte-area preferred lender partner Highland Mortgage to share mortgage and refinancing basics.

Types of mortgage

Highland’s Donna Williamson says the first thing to know is that there are several different types of mortgage you might choose from:

Fixed-rate mortgages are the most common type of mortgage loan. With this approach, your interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan, typically 15 or 30 years. The alternative is an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).

The ARM’s interest rate can fluctuate over time based on market conditions. They often start with a lower interest rate than fixed-rate mortgages, but can be riskier because the interest rate could increase in the future.

Still, ARMs are “not as scary as they sound,” Williamson says, as the government has put protections in place to make sure the rate doesn’t jump too much over the life of the loan. You’ll also see upfront the highest rate you could see, so can decide knowing you have locked in for five to seven years and can see what could happen in the future.

Deciding on your mortgage terms

Your interest rate, along with the term of the loan, will impact how much you pay over the life of the loan. Your down payment is another critical consideration. Williamson says most people “don’t realize how little they have to put down. You can actually put down as little as three percent, but usually the minimum is five percent (depending on your credit score).”

Anything less than 20% and you’ll have to pay mortgage insurance. Yet, the rates on this have grown more manageable, especially if you have a really good credit score, Williamson said.

Putting in less of a down payment could be advantageous, she says. Otherwise you could be putting all your available cash into the house. Sure, you’ve lowered the monthly payment, but you are also now house rich and cash poor.

Getting a mortgage is an easier process if you can put 20 to 30% down, but Williamson suggests working with a mortgage or other financial advisor to really evaluate what’s best for you.

Why might I refinance my home?

There are many reasons to refinance a home. Often people will want to get a better interest rate. However, Williamson notes, if you have paid 15 years of a 30-year mortgage, it may not be worth it. For others, you may get a lower interest rate to save money on your interest payments over the life of the loan. This could help you lower your monthly payment rate.

People often also refinance to tap into their home equity. It can be an affordable way to pay off high-interest debt. Perhaps they are facing a family emergency or have kids going to college. There are many personal reasons someone might want to take cash out of the home equity with a refinance.

Another reason people might refinance is to change the term of their loan, says Highland’s Margaret Bunch. Extending the term can help you reduce your monthly payment. Shortening the term may save you money on interest and help you pay the loan off faster.

Of course, refinancing comes with its own costs, such as closing costs and fees. So, you’ll want to consult with a mortgage specialist or financial advisor before deciding to refinance.

Make mortgages and refinances easier

The lender will provide you with a list of items they need to underwrite your loan. This can include bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs and more. They’ll ask you to provide it all upfront to help them make decisions. At the same time, you should also be prepared to answer questions along the way. That bank statement you file may end up prompting them to ask you for more data. Be communicative and honest to keep the process moving along.

If you’re worried about being self-employed and trying to get a mortgage or refinance, Williamson and Bunch are encouraging. “That is our favorite,” says Williamson. With experience helping underwrite loans for those who are self-employed, they can help walk you through the process.

Saussy Burbank’s sales team can also help you through the home buying process. Look to see what we have available in the Carolinas today. Or learn why our buyers love the quality craftsmanship they expect from a Saussy Burbank home.

Thanks for your time and insights, Donna & Margaret!

Charlotte, NC, is one of the largest 25 cities in the United States. Fortunately, the Queen City has a lot to offer in addition to the hustle and bustle of a booming metropolis. Located in the Piedmont region, between the Appalachian mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Charlotte boasts many great outdoor escapes. These hikes near Charlotte are definitely worth checking out.

McDowell Nature Preserve

The McDowell Nature Preserve in south Charlotte has trails that take you along Lake Wylie and others that lead you away from the water. There are miles of trails through the rolling, forested terrain of this 1,132 acre preserve. You can start out in several directions for the preserve’s interactive Nature Center. The Shady Hollow and Pine Hollow Trails connect for a 2.2 loop that is moderately challenging.

Latta Nature Preserve

There are several trails at Latta Nature Preserve. The Hiking Project recommends the intermediate 2.6-mile Latta Park Shady Loop. Still, there are 16 miles of trail to experience on this 1,343-acre preserve.

Anne Springs Close Greenway

Just across the border in Fort Mill, SC, the Anne Springs Close Greenway offers hardwood forest trails and beautiful lakes. The entire trail system is 36-miles long. The main route is the intermediate seven-mile Blue Star Trail. Depending on where you join the trail you may see historical locations like the grist mill replica.

Crowders Mountain

About 40 minutes from Uptown Charlotte and found in Kings Mountain, NC, you can climb to the highest point in Gaston County at Crowders Mountain State Park. Hike King’s Pinnacle, a moderate 2 miles each way, to get to the summit.

Lake Norman State Park

Take a scenic stroll along the man-made Lake Norman following the moderate 6.2-mile Lake Shore Trail. This is a popular park for mountain biking as well, but this trail is for hiking only. You’ll find this park just 45 minutes from Uptown Charlotte in Troutman, NC.

High Shoals Falls

The High Shoals Falls in South Mountains State Park, near Connelly Springs, NC, can be reached two ways. You can take a 2.7-mile loop trail that is generally considered moderately challenging. Or hike one mile to the 60-foot waterfall and return.

Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve

You don’t have to be heading to the mountains to find great hikes either. As you head toward South Carolina’s beaches, you might stop in Kershaw, SC, to hike in the Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve. The loop trail is 1.7 miles out and back and takes you around and over a massive slab of granite that was once magma flow beneath the earth’s surface.

A few further afield hikes

Since we don’t know your definition of “hikes near Charlotte,” here are a few more within two hours of the city. Of course, once you get into the mountains, great hiking abounds.

Window Falls in Hanging Rock Park

Near the Virginia border, this unique waterfall is 113 miles from Charlotte (so about a two hour drive). Found in Hanging Rock Park, you’ll first hike past Hidden Falls, which is about 10 feet of falls. Keep going another quarter mile and you’ll see the more impressive Window Falls. It’s named for a rock formation that provides a small hole through which you can look down on the falls. To get more distance in, don’t miss the park’s namesake trail, which is 2.4 miles there and back again.

Little Bradley Falls in Salad

This easy-to-moderate two-mile roundtrip loop takes you to a 50-foot, multi-tier waterfall. You’ll venture through beautiful dense hardwood forest, past wildflowers, and over two creek crossings, on this hiking trail in Saluda. The trip to Saluda is about 93 miles from Charlotte.

Hickory Nut Falls in Chimney Rock State Park

Another roughly two-hour trip from Charlotte, this is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Another reason to check out this 404-foot waterfall in Chimney Rock State Park? It was a filming location for The Last of the Mohicans movie. You can access the picturesque falls via a moderate 1.4-mile, round-trip loop, the Hickory Nut Falls trail. While here, you could also take the Outcroppings trail or an elevator to the top of Chimney Rock. You can see Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure from atop this 535-million-year-old icon.

Uwharrie National Recreation Trail

You can join the 20-mile Uwharrie Trail at various points in the Uwharrie National Forest. All Trails listed the 5.3-mile Badin Lake loop trail as its #1 of 25 top trails in this forest area. You’ll enjoy various views of the lake and travel through densely forested areas too.

A winner of seven Best in American Living awards, Saussy Burbank recognizes how a good hike can help you feel like you’re living your best life. That’s all we want for our homeowners. Learn more about the appeal of Saussy Burbank in our blog featuring a three-time Saussy Burbank homebuyer.

Whether you want to “sit and stay awhile” on a front porch or to enjoy natural preserved land (either on foot or on golf cart), SayeBrook, SC, is a great place to look. The high-quality homes in SayeBrook are in an excellent Grand Strand location and designed with the residents’ well-being in mind.

Homes and amenities are already going up in the newest community around Myrtle Beach. When all is completed, SayeBrook expects to boast 1,700 homes with unparalleled amenities in a community encompassing nearly 730 acres two miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

Saussy Burbank is one of three preferred builders selected to develop the community’s well-crafted houses and give SayeBrook homes a true “sense of place and purpose” where “people feel connected.”

There are many options for new home communities in the Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet area. Yet, sales consultant Trisha Whitaker, who has been working as a new home realtor on the Grand Stand since 1999, elected to represent Saussy Burbank at SayeBrook. “I did my research,” Whitaker says. “I am impressed with the quality of their home construction and their customer service.”

Getting to work with Saussy Burbank’s team also appealed. “They’re all wonderful,” Whitaker says. “They treat you like family.”

What’s special about SayeBrook homes

SayeBrook is a unique new community built for people who want to live in homes that reflect the architectural style of the south. Mixing traditional styles and modern innovation, the design approaches include Lowcountry Colonial, Lowcountry Victorian, Coastal Vernacular, and Coastal Arts and Crafts.

Saussy Burbank is offering seven functional floor plans with:

All residents will share access to the nine-acre SayeBrook Park, which features a 4,000-square-foot Meeting House, resort-style pool, fire pit, lighted pickleball courts, kids’ playground, and multi-purpose open-air community area with a lush lawn for coming together.

The location is also a real advantage, Whitaker says. SayeBrook homes are walking distance to the SayeBrook Town Center and its shops and restaurants (including a Crumbl Cookies, which would be a hit with any kids or grandkids, trust us).

Located just off Highway 544, SayeBrook also offers convenient access to Myrtle Beach State Park, Brookgreen Gardens, and boat launches. The Myrtle Beach International Airport, Market Common District, Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, and the South Strand Medical Center are all nearby as well.

Children will be able to walk to the new Socastee Middle School with its 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Socastee High and the highly ranked Lakewood Elementary are both within four miles. A private elementary school option is even closer.

Quality craftsmanship and a coastal feel

The SayeBrook homes mark Saussy Burbank’s entrance into the Myrtle Beach real estate market after building more than 8,000 homes throughout the Carolinas. The company brings more than 34 years of experience in custom craftsmanship and modern design to the Grand Strand.

Homeowners will see the benefits when they select a Saussy Burbank SayeBrook home, Whitaker says. Saussy Burbank pays attention to details at every step of the way, beginning with the structural integrity of the home, to make the home the best quality possible. That also means, at closing when the homeowner is orientated to their new home, they don’t have to worry about a long punch list and wonder when and if that work will get done.

Taking care of the customer is of utmost importance for Saussy Burbank, she says. The company’s many regional and national awards, including eight Best in American Living® awards, are proof that customer satisfaction is a true priority. She says, “Saussy Burbank has a great reputation in the Carolinas for building quality and great customer service.”

These homes will also adhere to Saussy Burbank’s sustainable building practices, which have garnered accolades, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center Green Partner Award.

See SayeBrook for yourself

Saussy Burbank’s model opens in SayeBrook on April 7. A grand opening event for the public is also planned for April 22 and 23. Whitaker would love to show you around the homes already available for purchase in SayeBrook. Schedule a tour or request more information today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Homeownership is a popular option in the Carolinas. In North Carolina, the latest homeownership rate is 65.8%. Meanwhile, in South Carolina, the rate is even higher at 73.2. Why not? It’s fun to make a home your own and make memories with friends and family there. Yet, along with the benefits, there are also many ongoing responsibilities.

In introducing our continuing series, this article explores several important aspects of owning a house. We’ll follow up in the coming months with a more in-depth discussion of the essential things homeowners need to know about each of these areas.

Mortgages and refinancing

Unless you paid in full upfront you likely have a mortgage. This is a loan used to purchase the home with your house serving as collateral. You’ll have a fixed or adjustable interest rate, which along with the loan term, and how much you contributed as a down payment, will impact how you much you pay over the life of the loan.

You’ll be paying a monthly amount that covers the principal (the amount borrowed) as well as the interest. You might also include your taxes and insurance in your monthly payment.

If you want to change your mortgage terms or take advantage of lower interest rates, you may choose to refinance.

Home Insurance

Neither South Carolina nor North Carolina requires homeowners insurance. However, if you have a mortgage, your lender is likely to make it mandatory. Homeowner insurance policies are designed to protect your home and personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or natural disasters.

Many policies also safeguard you against liability for accidents that injure other people or damage their property. The policy can cover medical expenses for someone accidentally injured on your property as well.

Still, if you want to protect against losses from flood, earthquake, landslides, mudslides, or mudflow, you’ll typically need to purchase additional coverage.

Review your policy regularly to ensure that you have adequate coverage. We’ll discuss in more detail in a future blog the factors that might change your coverage needs.

Property Taxes

Along with your mortgage payment and insurance premiums, you will also be responsible for paying property taxes. These taxes, which fund public services in your area, can be a significant expense. The county will calculate your home value and tax you accordingly.

It can help to make yourself aware of any tax breaks or exemptions. For example, there may be exemptions for disabled veterans or senior citizens.

If you disagree with your property’s assessed value, you can typically appeal. The process will vary depending on your location and local laws.

Energy Efficiency

Improving your home’s energy efficiency can benefit your bottom line as well as the environment. An energy audit is a good way to identify areas where you could be losing energy and improve efficiency. You can find online audit tools online or hire a professional contractor to do the survey of your home energy use.

Don’t overlook simple steps you can take to save money on your energy bills. This could include:

You might also consider installing solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal heating and cooling to generate renewable energy to power your home.

Home Improvement Projects

You may have big ideas for how you’re going to improve your home. Of course, if you’re moving into a Saussy Burbank home, we like to think no improvements are needed! Still, you’ll want to be cautious when undertaking home improvement projects.

Don’t dive into a major change without:

Maintenance

Regularly inspect your home’s interior and exterior — we suggest doing it every season — to identify any damage or wear or tear that needs attention. Keeping your home in good condition through regular maintenance can help you to avoid more expensive repairs in the future.

Water damage, for example, is something you want to address promptly. Many homeowners don’t realize the damage that water can cause until it’s too late.

Pest control is another one to add to your regular maintenance plan. You may not be able to name the bug you catch skittering across your floor, but don’t underestimate the extent of an infestation. Scheduling consistent pest control services can help unwanted critters from causing real damage to your home.

Neighborhood/HOA regulations

In buying your home you probably looked to learn about the schools, what’s around for recreation, and tried to meet some neighbors. Now, that you’re living in the home, make sure you learn the neighborhood’s zoning laws and any homeowner association (HOA) rules.

By getting involved in your neighborhood association or HOA, you can gain access to useful community resources. You’ll also learn more about what you can do to be a good and considerate member of the community.

Home Security & Emergency Preparedness

Thinking “that won’t happen to me,” could leave you at risk in terms of home security or emergency preparedness. Make sure that your home has smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Check these regularly to make sure they are still up to the job when you need them.

Don’t underestimate the value of installing deadbolts, using motion-sensing lights, and keeping your home well-lit at night. You don’t want to learn about a vulnerability in your home security after you’ve become a victim of it.

Along the same lines, plan for emergencies. Have backup supplies in place for power outages or natural disasters. Make a plan for how to evacuate the home if necessary, and practice it with your family to give everyone confidence under pressure.

Saussy Burbank is known throughout the Carolinas for building quality crafted homes with modern floor plans in keeping with the distinct flavor of their specific neighborhoods. Tour our virtual gallery to see our latest offerings in top locations such as Charleston, Charlotte, and Myrtle Beach. Or contact a sales rep today.

The Myers Park neighborhood is an old and established one in Charlotte, North Carolina. While this area is known for its lush oak trees and lavish homes along Queens Road, there are other fun things to know about this first suburb in the Queen City.

Myers Park neighborhood history

The Myers Park neighborhood was established in the early 1900s to provide a suburban neighborhood for wealthy Charlotte residents. In 1911, George Stephen developed his father-in-law’s cotton plantation with landscape architect and town planner John Nolen’s input.

Nolen developed Myers Park’s lush, tree-lined streets on the 1,100 acre-parcel of land with Queens Road as its spine. The street plan for Myers Park along with his planting and landscape designs also represent the beginnings of Earle Sumner Draper’s career. Both went on to become nationally-known, influential designers.

Myers Park was one of the first Charlotte neighborhoods to offer electricity and paved streets. Designed to be a cutting-edge and progressive community, the neighborhood was planned to accommodate automobile traffic. That’s why it features so many cul-de-sacs and winding roads. Residents wanted to slow traffic to make the area pedestrian-friendly still.

Today, Myers Park remains known for its expansive outdoor spaces including Freedom Park and the Myers Park Country Club’s greens. The Independence Park Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Duke Mansion, now a bed and breakfast, also boasts 4.5 acres of private grounds.

You can also still visit the front yard of J.S. “Jack” Myers’ original country home, as it is today known as J. S. Myers Park. You’ll find it bounded by Hermitage Road, Ardsley Road, and Providence Road across from what was the Manor Theatre.

You’ll also still find historic Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean Revival homes built in the 1920s and 1930s. But there are plenty of Craftsman and modern home plans as well.

The Myers Park neighborhood today

Although a popular choice for high-earning professionals including executives, lawyers, doctors, and business owners, Myers Park has long been open to a mix of people. Even back in 1911, Nolan and Stephens wanted to accommodate a range of economic classes and drew up various lot sizes and planned for bungalows alongside fine mansions. Today, you’ll find Myers Park is home to apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

You’ll also find many families with children living in Myers Park, drawn by the area’s excellent schools, as well as retirees enjoying the quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to Uptown. Niche gives Myers Park an overall A+ grade and lists it as best neighborhood to live in Charlotte.

The Myers Park community also has an active association working to preserve the neighborhood’s history and build a tight-knit community.

Out and about in Myers Park

Commercial development was in the original 1911 plan for the Myers Park neighborhood as well. Although the first area store, nicknamed “the little store” by the students at then Queens College didn’t last, this South Charlotte neighborhood is known today for its quality of life and its mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants.

If you’re looking for evidence of the little store, you won’t have much luck. Myers Park Presbyterian Church and Myers Park United Methodist Church were built on the spot in the 1920s. Nevertheless, you can enjoy some retail therapy today at Monkee’s, KK Bloom, Sporting Gent, or Fairclough & Co. Browse local artists’ work at Shain Gallery or Providence Gallery.

Grab a pint or some pub fare at the popular Selwyn Pub. Or dig into homemade pizza or pasta at Stagioni, which is housed in a former villa on Providence Road. Try Thai at Deejai, also on Providence. Or take the family somewhere familiar at the Mellow Mushroom with a stop at TCBY across the street afterward.

You can also enjoy wildlife at The Discovery Place Nature Museum, housed alongside Freedom Park. The butterfly pavilion is just one of the treats in store. Or visit Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary. This natural oasis is hidden amidst residential homes but provides a beautiful respite from the hubbub of city life.

Overall, the Myers Park neighborhood offers historic charm, modern fun, and beautiful landscapes. Saussy Burbank has built many custom homes in this area of Charlotte. Contact us to learn more.