Everyone loves new on Hilton Head Island!

New areas on Hilton Head Island worthy of your consideration. 

As the Island offers a limited and finite resource of land, new developments that pop up now and than offer creative and attractive ideas that may be different than what we have for sale on the Island.  We will list these new developments and add new ones as we hear about them on this page.  If you would like us to consider adding one, please email us at islandrealtor@hargray.com . Thank you.

Abbey Glen ~ Courtyard Homes on Hilton Head Island

This brand new development is located on Hilton Head Island off Spanish Wells Road.  Abbey Glenn is going to be wildly successful as Islanders that have out lived their homes look for newer Island locations that offers services and less maitenance.  These spacious courtyard homes will offer fabulous floorplans and complete outdoor maintenance of the grounds.  Please email us at islandrealtor@hargray.com for a full brochure.

Summer House ~ Great Newer Villas on Hilton Head Island

Another community on the Island is located just off the Cross Island Parkway and offers 2 and 3 bedroom condos that feel like new.  This community is a condo conversion with developer villas starting below $150,000 for a great villa that offers fantastic grounds, security, excellent floor plans, a wonderful clubhouse, big pool, cabanas and garages.  If you want a permanent home or 2nd home on the island with a great location and space for a low price email us at robbie@robbiebunting.com .  This project is very successful and is in the last phases of developer sales. 

Broad Creek Marina Village on Hilton Head Island

Located in the very heart of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is Broad Creek Marina Village. This charming village will provide it’s residents a secure neighborhood with a smaller and more intimate neighborhood that many plantations can’t provide because of size. It’s 37 home sites will be surrounded by lush live oaks, sidewalks and a soothing, peaceful waterfront community.  The adjacent Marina offers a village atmosphere with its docks, dry storage, water sports, nature activities and the UP THE CREEK PUB & GRILL which offers casual waterfront dining.  Please e-mail robbie@robbiebunting.com for a brochure, pricing and finacing information!

Palmetto Commons offers villas on Hilton Head from $79,900!

Palmetto Commons is tucked away on five acres housed under a canopy of mature oaks and pines. This island location is convenient to everything Hilton Head offers; miles of sandy beaches, championship golf & tennis, world-class boating, and fine dinning.  These two bedroom villas at Palmetto Commons offer comfortable floorplans and a great getaway location on Hilton Head with a price that is unbelievable.  Email us at islandrealtor@hargray.com for a current list of pricing and availability. 

Are you wanting to become a developer too? 

We currently have a development opportunity off the Island that is approved for 42 single family homes.  All of the necessary permits are in place and the owner is either looking to sell or partner.  As a partner a $300,000 investment with $100,000 down  gets 50% ownership of project with 42 lots fully approved and shovel ready on this beautiful property.  Contact us for more information on the partnership and the program at robbie@robbiebunting.com

These new developments are unique to Hilton Head Island.  If you have any questions regarding any area on the Island, please email us.  Thank you,

From an Island that is 97% developed,

We are,

Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

800-932-3652

www.robbiebunting.com

robbie@robbiebunting.com

Dear Clients, Friends and Fellow Associates~

I once heard that one of the reasons a property may not sell is because “The seller is the highest bidder”.  Of course, sellers do control the pricing of their property and as their REALTOR we control the marketing for the property.  However, one of the services we provide every seller is value counseling throughout the listing.  This means if we see a trend up or down, we will suggest a value to a seller for consideration.  Most of the time our counsel is accepted, but there are times where we may wait literally months before a seller decides to go to that price.  Often however it is too late by then.  Here are two sellers, both of equal value homes.  One sold their home in 5 months, the other sold in 3 years. 

Seller One – Trusts the Expert on Hilton Head Island

I met Mr. and Mrs. “Geterdone” in a listing interview.  They had invited three agents that were known to sell in the neighborhood to sit down with them and make a presentation.  These sellers had purchased a new home that was being built and had several months before they needed to close.  As in every interview we went through the checklist of our double top secret marketing programs that produce results for our seller and reviewed our raving fans worksheet.

The seller hired us to sell his home.  In our conversations with the seller we explained our role and theirs.  We explained that our job was to get agents and buyers interested in his home by marketing, their job was to make the home accessible, presentable and decide on prices based on market facts.  We also explained that we would advise them on value changes in the market throughout the listing period and make suggestions for them based on the market.

We listed the home at a value chosen as competitive in the market.  Within 30 days after the first agent tour, we saw few showings and low general interest and we had completed several marketing programs that should have driven more buyers into the home.  I called the seller and told them that something was wrong and suggested they tweak the value to see if it was price.   The seller did not flinch and asked what I would suggest and I told home to adjust it 1%.  The seller immediately said “Let’s do it”

Unfortunately, we did not see an increase of activity.  This time we reviewed the market, the marketing, the accessibility, the condition and location and found nothing wrong.  We also determined that it was not the economy(because other properties were selling), the inventory or the current interest rates.  It had to be the value.  This time we suggested a much larger adjustment.  The seller immediately said “Whatever it will take, we trust you”.

The price change increased interest and showings but we went another two weeks without an offer. I called the seller and said we are close, but need to tweak the value again to cause the sale.  Without any hesitation they said “Go for it”.  Keep in mind we were still 4 months away from when they had to sell.  Within 1 week of this adjustment we received an offer that was within 2% of the asking price and only 9% off their original asking price.  Today they can honestly look back and say they saved money by trusting their agent.  

Seller Two – Is the Highest Bidder on Hilton Head

I met Mr. and Mrs. “Tinkaboutit” in a listing interview too!  They had invited two agents to review the market and help them sell their home.  This time we did not get the listing in the first go round, however we did get the call to list the home after it did not sell with the other agent.  We set our marketing into place and positioned this home in the tours.  We received very little traffic and we called the seller to review everything and determine what could be corrected.  This home was drop dead gorgeous in a great neighborhood and we should have had more interest than we had.

No activity took place in the first thirty days.  We called the seller and arranged a meeting to discuss the market, the marketing, the economy, and the sales we had had since we had listed it.  We suggested based on trends a value correction.  The seller said he would think about it.  I called several more times as we really were seeing little to no traffic and I explained that buyers remained stealth until they saw value on thier computer screens back home.  We were told that the home was worth what we were asking and it was simply a function of market.

Christmas came and the seller asked to take the home off the market through the holidays.  The problem I explained in doing this is that the Island gets busy during the holidays as owners and visitors travel to the warmer climate.  Sales take place and I did not want them to miss a single buyer.  They took it off the market anyway.

Spring came around we were contacted by this seller to  the re-list this home again.  This time we suggested a value that would sell this home in 30 days.  Needless to say the seller told us they would think about it and get back to us.  The seller chose a price 10% higher than our suggested sale price.  We moved from no chance to little chance and did not get a single offer for the rest of this entire year.

Christmas approached and the seller called and took the property off the market again!  We reminded them again about not missing a single buyer.  They did it anyway.

In the spring they contacted us to list the home and asked us what we thought the value should be.  The value we gave them was an additional 10% less than our previous suggested selling price.  This time however the seller said “Let’s do it!”  Long story cut short…we sold the home within 60 days only 2% off their new asking price.  In total this home sold for 27% less than the original asking price in just over 3 years.  This seller had chased the market thinking about their value corrections and not selling until they took action. 

In today’s rapidly changing real estate market, your real estate agent can counsel you on price trends and you should trust their recommendation.  If you would like for us to give you a valuation, please do not hesitate to call.  We have been designing selling strategies for sellers for now 24 years on Hilton Head Island and can help you.

From a market and Island that we know~~

We are respectfully,

Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

robbie@robbiebunting.com

800-932-3652

Dear Palmetto Hall Property Owners and Friends~
 
Linked below, is the Palmetto Hall Market Report Update.  This report shows the active listings, the current pendings and the sold properties.  Please note the average per square foot for the actives, pendings as this can help determine current market.  Please click below.

Dear Clients, Friends & Fellow Associates ~

As a Realtor on Hilton Head Island I am often asked about three things.  The weather, the market and my family.  In order to save some time, I have summarized all of these in one handy print out.  So now when I meet a buyer I can hand this to them as we jump in the car to find their paradise!

Smart Buyers will rush to buy real estate this winter.  Interest rates are forecasted to rise in spring of 2010 if the Federal Reserve stops purchasing the mortgage-backed securitiees.   We could see interest rates crossing 6% by the end of March 2010 if this occurs.   This would mean a loss of buying power up to $60,000 for a $350,000 loan.  The additional interest alone would be $108,000 more paid over the life of this loan. 

Hilton Head weather is simply better!   The Island is kept warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer by thermos or the ocean breezes over the warm sea(that is why you see people swimming in the ocean in January).  In fact, our moderate winter days are typically warmer than other inland southern cities.  As well winter months have less rain than the wetter summer months with sub tropical temperatures that are perfect for snowbirds or real estate shoppers looking for a warm weather escape.  The winter is the Island’s sports season, which is perfect for golf, long beach walks, biking, tennis and most other outdoor activities.

The real estate market is healing.  The market is healing from the bottom up and months of available inventory is decreasing in properties under $750,000.  As these markets heal, buyers with equity will be purchasing our larger properties that offer attractive pricing.  Homes will see a jump in all price points if the new housing credit passes later this week.  First-time home buyers would be eligible for $8,000, but purchasers don’t have to be first-time buyers. Anyone who has owned a home for at least five years could get a $6,500 credit on a new residence. 

My son’s are touring colleges.  Many of my clients have been buying and selling real estate with me before I had a family.  It is hard to believe for both of us that we are now looking at colleges.  My wife is a great planner and has made me realise it is important not to take a chance on time.  I pass this on to you as timing has never been better to buy real estate…please note time flies!

From Hilton Head Island with great winter weather, great prices and great families~

WE ARE~

Robbie Bunting and Jane Hyers

P.S. Baby Boomers are now turning 60 at the rate of 8,000 a day and represent 38% of our total population in this country.  The way I see it based on 2.5 million visitors per year to Hilton Head Island, we have over 950,000 of these Baby Boomers visiting the Island with about 50,000 of them turning 60 years old every year for the next 17 years.  Our recommendation is to be ahead of this herd!  We are just beginning to hear the rumble.

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

We asked Cary Griffin of McNair Law Firm to provide a list of communities and their respective transfer fees for buyers, sellers and agents.  Simply click for a readable (and printable) list of these fees below:

                                       Plantation Dues & Transfer Fees 2009

 Please do not take a chance on time…the costs are low for what you get.  Come dance on the beach and enjoy life now!  

All the best,

 
Robbie Bunting &
Jane Hyers

Dear Clients, Friends & Fellow Associates ~

This week we met several Islanders that offer great services on the Island.  Of course if you are looking for great properties please visit www.robbiebunting.com.  Please feel free to contact the following direct or email us if you have any suggestions.

Montgomery Law Firm 

Hunter Montgomery has helped my wife and I with several of our purchases through the years and started his own practice.  He is a very personable guy and a great real estate attorney.  Attorney fees that Hunter charges are $475 for purchasers and $400.00 for sellers and refinances.  Contact Hunter Montgomery located at 200 Main Street, Suite 201-J by calling (843) 301-5267 / (843) 681-5583 (fax)  or email wahm@mindspring.com

Ocean Tides Spa

Sandy Norris at the Ocean Tides Spa is highly recommended.  With a special $75 treatment which can include A Calming Currents Massage, The Tides Stone Massage, or The Dive Deep into the Tissue Massage.  Call Sandy Norris at (843)341-8056 and make an appointment with her.  You will love heading  down to the Oceanfront Hilton in Palmetto Dunes and can even pretend you are on vacation for awhile before and after your massage.  The Hilton has a great beach, wonderful wine bar and a calming presence.  Enjoy.

ForeShore, Property Management and Marketing

If you are thinking of Rental by Owner Services for your Hilton Head Property, contact Brian Tierney (a local)and he will send a welcome package or meet you at your property(or the property you are considering).  His fee is 22% for marketing and cleaning which is very competitive and he starts at 15% if he only promotes the property.  He will get you up and running on VRBO and other internet websites and does a great job.  Brian Tierney can be reached at 843.564.5538 or on his cell at 843.304.9192.  Email him at brian@foreshorerentals.com

Gentle Spray

Ted Brammer did a great job powerwashing my home.  In fact, I now do this every year.  The benefits include looking new again, getting the north side mildew off the home and cleaning up my service yards and driveway.  The fee is reasonable and beats renting or borrowing the equipment and doing it myself(I tried and this and will never do it again!).  Call Ted Brammer at (843)671-2929 or email him at gentlespray@hargray.com

Full Service Accounting

Janett Morris has done my book keeping for years now and I must say that it has not only saved me money as she reviews my billings, it has also saved me time.  I have taken this time to sell more.  She has 30 years of experience and picks up and delivers payroll and bills.  Call Janett at (843)422-4298 or email her at Janett_Morris@yahoo.com

We hope that these contacts serve you well.  Please be sure to mention to that you found their contact information on our blog!  Thank you.

From a great Island with great People~

WE ARE~

Robbie Bunting and Jane Hyers

robbie@robbiebunting.com

Dear Clients, Friends and Fellow Associates~

Real estate is like hockey.  I started thinking about this the other day when I was watching my son play ice hockey in Charleston. My son’s coaches tell the players to “keep their heads up” as they skate with the puck down the ice.  Hockey players keep their heads up or become easy targets by the other team members!  As I thought about this advice, I realized that this was smart advice for hockey or in business.  By keeping our heads up our attitudes are better and we are less likely to get knocked down as we head towards our goal.

You cannot play hockey or real estate sitting on your butt. 

My dad told me this when I first started my career in real estate.  Realtors and Hockey players may get knocked down from time to time if they are in pursuit of achieving their goals.  It is that simple.  If you have not been knocked on your butt it means you are not in the game.  The key is to get off your butt and skate or sell.

Real Estate and Hockey both require contact. 

My mom taught me that real estate is a contact sport.  As in hockey, real estate agents need to be shoulder to shoulder with their client in order to close a sale.   In fact, my mom had a buyer and seller in a stalemate and rather than trying to fight it out, she invited both of them to breakfast together.  She believes in contact and she closed the deal. 

Real Estate agents and Hockey players must stay focused on the goal. 

As you head towards your goal it is very likely you will have outside pressures that can take you further from achieving them.  The key is to stay focused and never give up.  As a realtor or hockey player it is important to know what your goals are and work towards achieving them.

Real Estate agents and Hockey players need coaches. 

A good coach helps agents and hockey players achieve and see things differently.  My coach has pulled me forward in business strategy.   Not only does he make me focus on my daily game, he is alway improving my skills and planning the next game.  Hockey coaches work the same way, the only difference is as an agent I appreciate not having to do suicides after losing my last sale.

So if you are a hockey player(like my son) or a real estate agent(like me) the key to making a goal or making a sale is to keep your head up, listen to your coach, focus on the goal and don’t ever give up.  I look forward to working with you in the future as we head towards our goals together.

From an Island without Ice,

 
Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

Dear Clients, Friends & Fellow Associates ~

A long time ago, a fellow agent pulled me aside and said, “Robbie, clients really do not care know how much you know, until they know how much you care!”  This has helped shaped my future dealings with all buyers and sellers.  Along the way though I have also learned that buyers and sellers want a few basics before they get down to business.  These basics include competence, confidence and an intent statement.  They become a road map for the sales process to flow smoothly.  +++CLICK HERE to read about freebies, competency and intent!

Here are some other interesting links:

+++CLICK HERE if air conditioning replacement is suggested!

+++CLICK HERE for new remodeling trends for villas and homes!

+++CLICK HERE for pre-packaged golf rounds on Hilton Head!

+++CLICK HERE for five great Open Homes this Sunday!

We are building our business on each success, this is a recommendation written by one of my clients recently:

“Robbie is efficient, personable and effective. Always gets answers, always stays on track, always listens and does whatever is humanly possible to work with your through a project. Highly recommended.”

Enjoy Fall on an Island~~

Robbie Bunting

& Jane Hyers 

robbie@robbiebunting.com

800-932-3652 

P.S.  This is the time of year to think cozy and intimate.  la famiglia is located in Plantation Center behind Santa Fe and offers a great Eggplant Cutlet Parmigiano at lunch.  CLICK HERE+++ for four special offers.

Dear Clients, Friends and Fellow Associates~

Why renovate before you sell your property?  The benefits of remodeling now include making your space more livable with savings that are available today.  I asked Bunting Construction on Hilton Head Island to give us some insight to remodeling.  Although Bunting Construction has built intricate ocean-front homes with artists that paint ceilings, they started their business remodeling older homes in the Sea Pines area.  The company does not settle for middle and simply does things right with a high standard and a fair price.

A note from Scott Bunting of Bunting Construction

Thanks for calling us about the building and remodeling trends on the Island.  We have found that our clients often know what they want and have some very good ideas on how we can help them when it comes to remodeling projects on their homes.  We have been blowing out spaces to create new and exciting environments for them.  We recently completed a remodel on an oceanfront villa in Palmetto Dunes and took this villa to the studs(see our website below) and redefined and improved the space.  

Our recent projects include:  

+ Kitchen Areas – A kitchen is the heart of a home and many of our clients are opening up their kitchen to other areas of their home.  The advantage to this project is we can take this space and make everything open and brighter with the benefit of more space.  We often remove walls and relocate cabinetry to accomplish a better utilization of this space.  Many of our kitchens are also adding new granite countertops, additional counter space, cabinetry, recycling centers, walk in pantries, and island work areas.

+Sun Porches – Bring in the Sun!  Given the cooler temperatures we are experiencing outside, many of our clients are looking to add a screened in porch to their existing home.  We have found that these porches can coexist with side or back areas of the home as they meet set-backs.  We have also been adding some skylights so we do not darken interior spaces that are adjacent to these porches.  As many of our clients wish to use these spaces year round, we have also been adding windows and doors to create a great sun room.

+Master Suites – It is said kitchens and baths can sell a home and many of our clients are looking for more closet space in their existing master bedrooms.  We have found that often we can combine space from other areas including screened porches, offices, closets and hallways to reconfigure the space and provide bigger and better master suites.  Our projects usually include adding linen closets, separate showers, higher vanities, and whirlpool tubs. 

Despite the economy, remodeling is still one of the better and stronger investments anyone can make because you get to enjoy it now. At Bunting Construction we are set to help your clients with these projects.  We work closely with both an interior decorator and designer to make this process seamless and easy.  Our pride is in our craftsmanship. 

If you have something that you would like us to look at give us a call or have your clients contact us directly.  Thank You.

Sincerely,

Scott Bunting
Bunting Construction Company, Inc
sbunting@buntingcompany.com
www.buntingcompany.com
0ffice 843-842-9033  Fax 843-842-9209  Cell: 843-384-7468