Nexton August 30, 2022

Nexton -New Leaf Builders

In my prior blogs I overviewed the Rock the Block homes built in Nexton. I wanted to cover my favorite builder in Nexton, New Leaf Builders. 

New Leaf Builders

Is part of the unique Nexton community, bringing neighbors and families closer together. Their newest design, the Vicolo series expands on the quality of their unique Roman villa inspired Domus Collection with even more of the street-appeal you expect at Nexton, now selling in Midtown.  

The Domus Collection

Is carefully designed around their signature private courtyard as you can see in the pictures below.  Your outdoor living space can be expanded with the garage conveniently out of sight, adjacent to your own gate house. With spectacular courtyard views and access from your home’s main living areas.  Each home is fenced to keep you pets safe and very private!

   

I toured the model home and simply, “WOW”. Of course, the model has all the bells and whistles – Built ins, upgraded finishes and of course the gorgeous staging. 

The first picture is the kitchen pantry, next the master bedroom closet, and then the mudroom.

Open Concept

Amazing kitchen with an open concept to living areas if you enjoy entreating or just relaxing.

The Bedrooms

All the bedrooms are spacious and in the model the Master is downstairs.

The loft

A cozy space to read, relax or use as an office or play place for the kiddos.

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Nexton or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier! 

I can take you on a tour of all of the Model homes in Nexton -New Leaf, Sabal, Homes By Dickerson, Pulte and David Weekly. Move in ready homes are also available if you do not want to wait to build.

If you need to up your curb appeal or do any repairs/updates our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton. 

Neighborhoods August 25, 2022

Homes at Bradford Pointe

Homes at Bradford Pointe Summerville, South Carolina 

At Bradford Pointe in Nexton, you’ll find great value in affordable new Centex homes that include everything with no add-ons!  Centex Homes are equipped with Smart Home features that you can build upon following the closing of your brand new home, giving you access to automated features to control your home, your way. Located off of Nexton Parkway just before Route 176 with easy access to Cane Bay Market North Creek Marketplace at Nexton and Nexton Square everything you need is a short drive away!

Amenity Center with a great pool, nearby basketball court and playground for the kiddos for relaxing.

There is still homes available.  Some for immediate move in or pick your lot and model to build!

If you are interested a home in Bradford Pointe Nexton I’d be happy to join you in the process!

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal or do any repairs/updates our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.

Cane Bay News August 18, 2022

A Community Comes together to find a missing girl

Cane Bay Plantation comes together to locate a missing teen

One of a families worst fears is not being able to account for their child. This story is how the community of Cane Bay Plantation came together to locate this missing teen.

15 Year-old Alexis Damitz was last seen at her home on Witch Hazel Street in Cane Bay Plantation of Berkeley County around 9 pm August 9, 2022.  She left her residence on foot and has not been in contact with her family.  She is considered endangered.

Soon Facebook was filled with posts such as this one:

Searches were organized

A command center setup, flyers printed and distributed to nearby businesses to get the word out. about Alexis. Searches of the nearby forests were searched.  Facebook posts encouraged prayers for her safe return.

Daily updates were posted on various Facebook sites.  A bring Alexis home Facebook page was started.

Of course most of the comments to postings were positive.  Some not so much but with social media, as it is, not surprising.

Prayer service held

On Saturday there was a prayer service held at a park in Lindera Preserve attended by 40 people (myself included).  We all prayed for the safe return of Alexis.  A food truck rodeo was cancelled out of respect to the family.

Fortunately Alexis was found safe in the evening of August 14, 2022.  Facebook was flooded with updates to let everyone know the great news!

𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐓 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄!!!
Yes, Alexis has been found! Please give us a moment and we will provide an update at a later time (if the family wishes to). In the meantime, please respect the family’s privacy. Thank you to everyone who helped bring Alexis home!

It was determined she was hiding in a Berkeley County friends house. Thankfully this story had a happy ending.  The Facebook group was changed to Help Bring Our Neighbor Home to help get the word out about other missing persons.

A recent update

On Facebook from Attorney Tom Fernandez shows this situation was more than just a girl who decided to runaway.  – His post says, “The case for Alexis is a difficult one. While limited information on social media made Alexis appear as a mere runaway that was hiding from her family for a few days, this is in fact not the case. Likewise, Alexis suffered injuries including a fractured spine, contusions to her jaw, and bruising around her throat/jaw. An arrest has been made for alleged misconduct and the investigation is ongoing.”

Cane Bay Plantation came together as they always do and that’s one of the reasons I love living in Cane Bay Plantation!

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal or do any repairs/updates our Revitalize program can help. We also have programs for Cash offers to by and sell! I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.

Local Businesses August 12, 2022

The Market at Cane Bay

The Market at Cane Bay Plantation is the go to for anything you may need.

  • Gas and Convenience: Parker’s Kitchen
  • Shopping: Publix, Infinite Creations, Creekville Spirits, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
  • Restaurants: Starbucks, Rio Chico Mexican Restaurant, Tokyo Express, Famulari’s Pizzeria, Eggs Up Grill, Smoothie King, Chic-fil-A (Now Open!)             
  • Personal Services: Super Cuts, Cane Bay Nails & Spa
  • Financial Services: United Bank, State Farm Insurance, Edward Jones, South Carolina Federal Credit Union
  • Professional Services: Sangaree Animal Hospital, Japan Karate Institute, AT&T, Firestone Complete Auto Care
  • Preschool and Childcare: Cane Bay Academy
  • Healthcare: Cane Bay Primary Care – Roper St. Francis Physicians Network, Cane Bay Family Dentistry, Reagin Orthodontics, ATI Physical Therapy, Cane Bay Chiropractic & Wellness, Lowcountry Eye Care  
  • There is also the Hudson Luxury Apartments and a new apartment complex coming soon off of Nexton Parkway Extension.  If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal or do any repairs/updates our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.
Maintenance August 5, 2022

When it is time to replace a roof

Roof replacement

As you may know the Charleston area can experience severe weather which can include high winds, rain and Hurricanes.

Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 18 years

Asphalt Shingles (Archirectual) can last 30-50 years

Concrete tiles can last 35-50 years

Some of the most common signs that indicate you need roof repair include:
*     Leaks under the shingles
*     Cracks under the soffit
*     Stains on the interior wall
*     Stains on the interior structure
*     Cracked/curling shingles
*     Missing shingles
*     Mold/moss growth

 

In 2020 we decided to replace our roof due to shingles that were loose after hurricane winds.  We chose C3 American Exteriors to replace our roof.  Insurance does cover roof replacement with a deductible.

C3American Exteriors ensures quality roofing repair services in Summerville, SC, and the surrounding areas. They will be sure to assess the damage before discussing the type of roof repair service you will need. Whether it is a small spot repair job or extensive repair work, their team has the necessary skills and experience to provide you with a solution that best meets your needs. their website is https://c3america.com/service-areas/south-carolina/summerville/.  Here a link to a video showing the removal of our roof.  Don’t worry they cleaned up afterwards! https://youtu.be/0K2PVyWAUrE

Here is a roof awaiting repairs/replacement.

One of the most common things to look for when buying a new home is the age of the roof.  Because Hurricanes, winds and rain are regular occurrences even if the roof of the home you want to buy has not been recently replaced may not be an area of concern.  A property inspection will look for any potential issues due to a roof needing replacement.  An experienced realtor (me) can make sure you feel comfortable with any issues before purchasing a home.

Here are a few more roofs in my neighborhood.  It’s difficult to spot if there may be an issue with the roof.  An inspection will tell the tail.

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.

Local Businesses July 25, 2022

Scoop 50Fifty Ice Cream Shop

In Cane Bay Plantation we also look forward to a new business to open.

Scoops 50Fifty had a food truck that had been making the rounds of the various neighborhoods for months. So the neighborhood was very interested when we heard Scoop 50Fifty Ice Cream Shop was opening a store in the area!  The owners even asked residents of Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton to assist in naming one of the Ice Cream flavors.

Cane Bay Plantation residents choose the name “Cane Bay Roundabout” and Nexton “Raspberry Ripple.”  Another flavor was named “Salty Karen”

The store opened July 23rd and business was good.  I went today for a sundae and it was much quieter than our original visit opening day. Per one of the employees I asked stated they sold 300 gallons of Ice Cream and had to make an emergency call to get more for the next day!

Scoop 50fifty Ice Cream Shop is located at 205b S Cross Creek Dr, Summerville, SC 29486 across from Agave Cantina.  Right now it is way too hot for a golf cart ride to get a scoop, (It would melt instantly right now!) but I look forward to making the short ride this fall.

I will be posting in the future when Chick fil-A (at Cane Bay Market) opens and I expect long lines when that happens!

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.

 

 

 

Maintenance July 21, 2022

What is a Retention Pond?

The Retention Pond

In Cane Bay Plantation ponds are everywhere just like in most subdivisions in the Charleston area.  As you can see above sloped basins capitalize on gravity and the natural flow of water down hills and inclines.  This keeps runoff away from homes and other structures.  This also keeps the ground from growing soggy, which can causd erosion and possible foundation issues.  The retention ponds drastically reduced the flooding during the 1000 year flood a few years ago.  The streets were flooded but no water entered homes.  Most of the ponds in Cane Bay Plantation have overflow pipes that can help control water levels and disperse water evenly.  Precautions against contaminants and pollutants are also necessary to protect both the nearby environment and the greater public health.

 Core Concept

In South Carolina flooding is one of the biggest concerns whether you’re on the coast or not. When there’s a lot of rain there isn’t always a good place for it to go. It can soak into the ground, but, once the ground becomes too saturated, erosion and rising floodwaters could become serious threats. Retention ponds are built to give that water a place to go where it can be concentrated and contained. In most neighborhoods the retention ponds are planned and added prior to new homes being built.

How They’re Built

Retention ponds are usually designed to be shallow, and most have slow, sloping floors. They rarely take up much land,  though the one behind my home is larger. Most ponds are built in areas that have surrounding land capable of accommodating high water during rainy periods. Allowing for excess surrounding land is usually considered essential for proper function and safety.

Permanent Structures used in the Charleston area

All areas of Cane Bay Plantation, as well as the Charleston area, erosion is a permanent problem requiring more pond structures.  These  ponds have water in them year-round, though the levels often vary with the seasons and rainfall numbers.

While the ponds are fairly shallow, they should not be considered an area for recreation or swimming. The banks are typically built to be shallow at first but then drop sharply after about 2 feet (0.5 meter).  I do not personally know how deep the ponds in the area are but having fished in the area it isn’t very deep.  I usually catch more weeds than fish.   The shallow banks (as you can see in the photos) were developed as a safety measure to prevent drowning, but children and pets should still be kept away from the pond and surrounding areas.

Pollution Removal

In Cane Bay Plantation permanent ponds are built in lower land areas that tend to accumulate excess amounts of water. Retention ponds aids in the removal of pollutants, trash and debris typically that can run into the pond after heavy rains. The basins also catch runoff containing sediments, bacteria, and other harmful substances that may have negative impacts on overall water quality.

Here in the south maintenance is necessary. Here an maintenance employee is treating the pond.

As pollutants enter the pond during a heavy rain, the basin works to slow water movement. The stagnant water allows heavier contaminants, such as solids or metals, to sink to the bottom of the pond and eventually become bottom layer sediments. The retained water naturally filters contaminants and returns clean water to nearby streams or wetlands.

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.
Maintenance July 12, 2022

Curb appeal – does it matter?

Listings are starting to increase in the Charleston area.  Days from listed to sold is also increasing. Currently there are 2,068 homes for sale in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester County.  If the market continues to balance there will be other things to consider when you sell your home.  Curb Appeal. The front of your home is the first thing buyers will see and the decision to go inside or not can be made right then and there.

I walked around my neighborhood (in Old Rice Retreat/Cane Bay Plantation)  and took pictures of homes to show what type of landscaping, if any, existed.

This home has minimum landscaping.  There is a small tree in front and flags for the 4th of July holiday.

We have several landscaping features at this home. Chinese Fan Palm, Sabal Palms, Rose bushes, tea lights, and purple hearts.

Bushes dominate the front of this home with a small tree in front where a planter with flowers was added. A couple of ferns are on the front porch.

Here we have the African American Amazon Flag (The Afro-American flag was designed by Marcus Garvey. He designed the flag in response to a popular song that said his race had no flag of its own and came into use in 1920) some bushes and a small tree.

Here are some other homes in my neighborhood.
 
Which homes would you be interested in seeing based on the curb appeal?
If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!  If you need to up your curb appeal our Revitalize program can help. I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.
Neighborhoods July 7, 2022

Life in Old Rice Retreat in Cane Bay Plantation

Snow??????

When I moved to South Carolina one of the biggest reasons was no snow.  I learned pretty quick that it does snow!  And if it does the area shuts down for days.  Snowfall/freezing rain occurred January 3, 2018 and was the first significant snow in the Charleston since December 26, 2010.  Everything was closed for four days.  I being used to driving in snow I did venture out.   Snow here turns to ice and they do not have plows and ice trucks.

Old Rice Retreat is located in Cane Bay Plantation in Berkeley County, Summerville, SC.

Summerville became an official town in 1847. The motto upon the town’s official seal reads “Sacra Pinus Esto (The Pine is Sacred).”[9]

Weather

Since we are near the Atlantic Coast we can be in the path of Hurricanes.

No reason to be overly concerned though.  In the past five years I’ve lived here there has been no significant Hurricanes.  If one is predicted all the stores board up, schools and businesses close. There are plenty if Evacuation plans in place and routes clearly marked.  Lots of rain and wind and if you do not anchor down items such as a yard trampoline, you may lose it.  Winds here can blow these types of items several yards away!

Thankfully, Summer is the wettest season; almost half of the annual rainfall occurs from June to September in the form of thundershowers. Hot days turn cooler until the ran stops.  It heats up as soon as the sun comes back out. Fall remains relatively warm through the middle of November. Winter is short and mild, and is characterized by occasional rain. It does get cold here but rarely under 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Community Events

In Old Rice Retreat we have events for the major holidays.  We have golf cart parades, fourth of July Fireworks and food trucks at the Amenity center.

The Fireworks displays in the Charleston area

Where I can from fireworks are illegal.  Here they have firework stands everywhere to get whatever you need to celebrate.  Many subdivisions hold there own displays. The streets and parking lot fill up with cars and golf carts to enjoy.

Halloween there are plenty of kids Trick or Treating. The last few years have been slower due to all the new subdivisions being added.  The costumes get more interesting each year!

If you are thinking about buying, selling or renting in Cane Bay Plantation or the Charleston area I’d love to show you what I and Coldwell Banker Realty can offer to make the process easier!   I keep up to date with everything going on in Cane Bay Plantation and Nexton.

Charleston area June 30, 2022

Sullivan’s Island Beach Inlet

When I first moved to South Carolina of course I went exploring! I found the Beach Inlet while looking for unoccupied beaches.

Beach Inlet is between Sullivan’s Island and Folly Island.  It’s easy access to get to by car and a very nice parking lot.

It was a nice spring day when I visited and no one was there!  Of course that may be because you can not swim at this beach.  There are signs warning you not to. Surprising or not, no Alligator warnings.  Probably not safe for them here either!  Every year, hundreds of people drown after getting sucked into jets of seawater. Warning signs on their own can only do so much.

There are plenty of places to explore in the Charleston area.  Caper Island, Bull Island (Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge) and Morris Island are only accessible by boat.  There are boat tours available through Coastal expeditions https://www.coastalexpeditions.com and very affordable.  The best thing about the tours, other than the beauty you can find there, is no crowds!

There are walking tours, carriage tours and bus tours which provide additional information about the history of Charleston.  The nice thing is no tour is the same each time.  There is always something new you can learn.

Looking to buy in the Charleston area? Do you know anyone that is looking to buy or sell real estate? Contact me for homes in the Charleston area or I can refer you to a great agent anywhere in the world that can show you all the great tools Coldwell Banker Realty offers Buyers and Sellers.