Searching for a house to accommodate a wheelchair isn’t as easy as it sounds. While today’s builders are making an effort to design homes that are more attractive to those of us with mobility issues, not all properties have been updated to accommodate disabled persons. The struggle is made even harder by agents who don’t understand how one home is better than another. If you are just starting your home hunt, in Charleston sit your real estate agent down before the process and let them know what you need.

1. You need a home that requires minimal modifications.

Just like anyone else, when you buy a new home, you want to be able to use it as soon as you move in. Give your agent a list of immediate requirements that are non-negotiable. If you need a zero-step entry, for example, tell them. Your agent may get so caught up in the search that they tell themselves it won’t be that hard to change a specified issue, and maybe you’d really like the house enough to overlook its flaws.

Another issue to be very clear about with your buyer’s agent is budget. Give them a range, and request not to see homes above the highest dollar amount. This is crucial if you think you’ll still need to pay for home modifications (and you most likely will). HomeAdvisor offers information on alternative funding options for people with disabilities. The American Red Cross, the Veterans Administration, and the Gary Sinise RISE program are just a few examples that offer grants available for people with disabilities.

2. You’ll need to hire pros before moving in.

You should ask your Realtor for recommendations of various professional services that will meet your needs before moving in. For example, you’ll need a reputable moving company that won’t

damage any of your items in the packing and shipping processes. Also, you may want to consider hiring a cleaning crew so your new home can be move-in ready. Ask about a contractor as well so that they can point out any necessary modifications you may have overlooked. You’ll also want to ask about locksmiths in your area. After the closing date, you’ll want to make your home secure by having the locks rekeyed or new ones installed. Expect to pay between $96 and $210 for locksmith services.

3. Stairs are not necessarily out of the question.

If you have the extra money for a stair lift (the average cost for one is $3,000 - $4,000), let your Realtor know that information as well. While most wheelchair users would prefer a single story home, some markets simply don’t have an inventory of ranch-style dwellings.

4. Inches matter in the kitchen.

The kitchen is one room where accessibility really can’t be negotiated. If you are the primary cook in your family, for example, tell your agent. Explain to them that a standard countertop height — usually 36 inches — is too high. Ask them to prioritize kitchen accessibility.

EasterSealsTech.com notes there are many things to consider in the kitchen. While appliances are a fairly easy fix, lowering the cabinets and ensuring there is space to roll in under the sink are much more cost-prohibitive. If necessary, have your agent take you into a home with a non- modified kitchen so they can get a better idea of the issues you face.

5. No matter how thin you are, you’ll need wide doorways.

Doorways are rarely installed with a wheelchair user in mind. As mobility products provider Karman explains, 32 inches is the minimum width necessary to be a comfortable passage. Most doors are 27 inches wide. Keep in mind, however, that this is a fairly easy project, one that you can have a friend or family member do without adding significantly to the cost of the home.

6. A small bathroom is a dealbreaker.

A first-floor bathroom is essential and just as important as location is size. The floorspace needed to safely accommodate a wheelchair is 48 inches by 30 inches. While this may not sound like a lot, if you’re looking at a smaller home, every effort will be made to fit as many features into the space as possible. This often means sacrificing floorspace.

Unless your agent is also in a wheelchair, he or she may not understand the issues you face. Clear up any questions ahead of time and you’ll save yourself and your realtor time, money, and hassle. Searching for a house isn’t easy for anyone, but knowing your needs now will make the process much less intimidating.

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Welcome to Cane Bay Plantation in Summerville, SC!  This beautiful, well-maintained home on a corner lot, features a large open floorplan that welcomes you as you enter the front door! Features of this freshly painted home include**BRAND NEW laminate flooring throughout first floor**Large kitchen with breakfast bar, plentiful cabinet and counter space and pantry**Large family/living room with fireplace offers a relaxing spot for entertaining**First floor Flex Room with closet and half bath that easily be converted into 4th bedroom or play/craft room or office**Upstairs is the real treat with a huge loft perfect for lounging and is surrounded by 2 guest bedrooms, guest bathroom, large laundry room**Escape to your Master ensuite which has a walk-in closet, dual vanities and separate garden tub and shower. The community pool and Pavilion that can be rented year-round is close by. Enjoy easy access to miles of trails throughout the Cane Bay Community.   Schools, shopping, and restaurants are a golf-cart ride away. 

The Old Rice Retreat neighborhood is full of events: Christmas golf-cart parade, Food Truck Wednesdays, outside movies, fireworks show & much more. Within the ever-growing Cane Bay area, you can find sewing clubs, BUNCO groups, impromptu football games, food drives, & the sense that you are now part of a huge family. Priced in the low $200's is a rare find in Cane Bay, this home will not last long, so do not wait to make an appointment for your own personal showing today!

For details, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19013523

Moving out of your lifelong home is emotionally challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to live your life on your terms. A smaller home means less upkeep, and the money you make from selling your current house can help you finance your dreams. However, downsizing is not a decision to be made lightly; in fact, there are many factors to consider, such as where to live and which home modifications you’re willing to pay for.

A New Place to Hang Your Hat

Your first priority is to determine where you want to live and what type of home you want to move into. While you have many options, most active seniors choose to buy a smaller house, purchase a condominium, or move into a retirement community. If you buy a home or condo, it may be necessary to make modifications to accommodate your current and future abilities. Even if you’re in perfect health now, it doesn’t hurt to plan for the future. Keep in mind that modifications can be pricey, so factor those into your budget as you search for your new home.

Angie’s List notes that a bathroom retrofitted with a walk-in shower and wheelchair-friendly doors may set you back $20,000 or more. A full kitchen renovation with a touch faucet and pull-out cabinets to accommodate arthritis will likely run about $25,000. Less expensive upgrades include a wheelchair ramp, added lighting, and safety grab bars in the bathtub. If you really want to future-proof your home, look for a single-story floor plan with a universal design.

Once you know the type of house you need, determine location. You might want to be close to the beach or have access to public transportation or shopping. If you have health concerns, make sure there is a hospital close by and that you research Medicare providers in the area to ensure you won’t have to make a long-distance commute for routine care.

What to Do with All That Stuff

No matter how long you’ve been in your current home, chances are you have a lifetime of stuff to go through before you move. You’ll have less space, so you’ll have to be willing to let go of a significant portion of your property. If you have time, start your decluttering process at least six months before the move. Tackle the non-sentimental stuff first, such as canceled checks and duplicate kitchen items. Do plan to take a few beloved items with you along with functional furniture, family photos, and anything else that lends to your overall sense of happiness.

Once you have decided what’s not moving with you, talk to your children and grandchildren about what they might like to keep. If you have valuable antiques, contact your local auction house or antique store to ask about having your items appraised. Anything not worth consigning can be used for inventory for a garage sale, which can further pad your moving budget while helping you contain the chaos of clutter. DaveRamsey.com offers plenty of great tips on how to have a successful garage sale.

Avoid Moving-Day Mayhem

Moving day anxiety is unavoidable, and it is also possibly the most stressful stretch of the journey. Consider using the services of a senior move manager, who is an individual specializing in helping seniors tackle this major life change. They can help you put an aging-in-place plan into action and ensure that your new home is unpacked and set up to your exact specifications. Many moving companies also offer moving services for seniors.

Downsizing is an emotional time, but it’s not one that has to be physically exhausting. Take your time by starting the decluttering process early, know what you’re looking for, and leave the heavy lifting to someone else.

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Looking for low maintenance living??  This pristine townhome, located in Dorchester District #2 school system, is perfect for the buyer who wants more free time, lots of space and less yard work! Features of this spacious 3BR/2.5B + loft home include:  New Bamboo floors in main living area**New Sunroom which is a lovely retreat for an evening BBQ or glass of wine** Bright and light open floor plan with custom trim and high ceilings offering lots of natural light**Well appointed kitchen with recessed lighting, ample cabinet and counter space, granite counters and Stainless Steel appliances**Roomy first floor master suite with his/hers closets and lovely updated bathroom with porcelain tile floors**Upstairs you have two large bedrooms, a full updated bath and loft which is great for office or play/media room**NEW AC and NEW ductwork in attic with pull down aluminum ladder. Other features in the is meticulously maintained home include:

Tankless Water Heater
One car garage with newly painted walls, newly epoxied floor and heavy duty shelves
Parking for three additional cars on parking pad
Conveniently located near Boeing, Mercedes, Bosch, Joint Base Charleston, Charleston International Airport and all interstates as well as shopping, restaurants and medical facilities. Don't miss this one!

For details, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19010459

I have always loved the tranquil, rural feel of Johns Island, SC.... as soon as you see the majestic canopy of grand, live oaks as you enter the Twelve Oaks Subdivision in Fenwick Hall Plantation, I know you will fall in love with Johns Island too! 

This well maintained, spacious 3BR/2B ground floor condo with one-car garage is tucked away in a lush, tropical setting and just across the Maybank Bridge.  And, you cannot beat its centralized location as historic Downtown Charleston, beautiful, sandy beaches, shopping and dining are easily accessible.

Features include BRAND NEW flooring in all bedrooms.  Enjoy entertaining guests in the kitchen which is open to the living, dining and sunrooms.  Dual masters bedrooms are on opposite ends of the living area which offers nice privacy along with ample storage with all three bedrooms having walk-in closets.  And, you will have awesome amenities including a Clubhouse, BBQ area, gym, pool and gorgeous walking trails. 

For details of this lovely home, you can go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19008186

Contact us for your exclusive showing!

Are you looking for low maintenance living with boating access to the Ashley River?  Look no further than this lovely first floor condo in the West Ashley burrough of Charleston, SC 

As you enter the home, you an updated galley kitchen with granite counters will be on your left and then you will proceed into the open family room which includes a coastal inspired wood-burning fireplace and crown molding.  Enjoy a separate dining area and well as a breakfast bar off of the kitchen.

Both bedrooms lead out to a private patio where you can enjoy the lowcountry breezes, gardening or an evening BBQ.  And, flooring throughout is all upgraded wood and tile in the bathrooms.

Unwind after a long day on your screened porch leading out to a lovely park-like green space to enjoy those summer nights.  

Ashleytowne Village is a quiet community that offers a neighborhood swimming pool, dog park, gazebo, boat storage, as well as a boat dock and ramp into deep water on the Ashley River!  And, of course, you will love being close to shopping, dining, entertainment long with easy access to Bees Ferry and interstate 526 providing easy access to Boeing and the Charleston International Airport.

Welcome Home!  

For details, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19007380

If you are like me, you probably have years of tax returns stored in your closets or other once-important documents that you no longer need.  Well, you can start your Spring Cleaning by getting rid of your unwanted, no longer needed documents the safe way.

The KW Cares Dragon Boat Festival Race Team of Keller Williams Charleston-Mt Pleasant is hosting a FREE document shredding event next Thursday, March 14th, 2019 from 3:30 to 6pm at Brittlebank Park, located at 185 Lockwood Drive, Charleston, SC

Our Team is working with Shred360 and Palmetto Mortgage to aid our supporters and the public in the fight against identity theft and fraud while raising money for Dragon Boat Charleston.

How to Get Started with Your South Carolina Vacation Rental

When it comes to the Charleston Tri-County area, there are numerous options for condos or single-family homes. With the diverse neighborhoods available, you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and must-have list. If your overall goal, however, is to purchase a vacation property or turn your current property into a vacation rental, there’s a laundry list of considerations to keep in mind, particularly if you hope to offset some of your costs. If you’ve got your sites set on creating a vacation rental in this region, read on for tips on how to approach the process and what to consider to make your rental shine.

Location is Critical

As a top tourist destination, Charleston draws millions of visitors every year. And with more people choosing vacation rentals, this paves the way for many of those visitors to enjoy your well-appointed space. Consider too how nearby cities can boost your allure. For example, despite it's two-hour distance, people visiting Myrtle Beach will most likely be drawn to the Charleston area as well. Whether you want to cater to families, couples, or golf pros, you'll find no shortage of guests to stay in your property. And high demand for short-term rentals in Myrtle Beach means you’re providing other options for travelers who want to visit South Carolina.

Before you start accepting guests, there a few logistics to handle. This guide will help you transform your home into a vacation property that guests can't wait to stay in.

Furnishing a Vacation Rental

The rules of furnishing a vacation rental are different from furnishing a home. Rather than reflecting your personal tastes, furnishings and color schemes should appeal to a broad range of travelers. Furnishings should also be easy to clean and maximize the number of guests your property accommodates.

Living Areas

Less is more in living rooms. Living rooms should offer ample seating, entertainment, and surfaces to set food and drink. They're not the place to showcase your unique taste in artwork, antique furniture collection, or trinkets collected on travels.

If catering to families, washable slipcovers are your friend in the living room. Try to add at least one sofa bed so your property can sleep additional guests.

Bedrooms

Queen- or king-sized beds dressed in simple, clean linens offer hotel-quality appeal, while an empty dresser or closet invites guests to settle in. If your property has multiple bedrooms and you want to attract families, install bunk beds in one room. A portable crib stashed in a closet is another amenity family travelers will appreciate.

Bathrooms

Clean and well-stocked are the most important things for a vacation rental bathroom. Get rid of old, tatty towels and replace them with color-coordinated sets, stock travel-sized toiletries, and always make sure there's more than enough toilet paper.

Kitchens

Travelers choose vacation rentals for the ability to cook their own meals, and your kitchen should reflect that. Avoid a cluttered appearance by storing items in cabinets, rather than on counters, but leave guests instructions on where to find pots and pan, oil, spices, and other kitchen essentials.

Maintaining a Vacation Rental

You have two options when it comes to maintaining your vacation rental:

1. Hire the jobs out.
2. Do it yourself.

Many vacation rental owners try to clean and maintain properties themselves to save money, only to realize they can't keep up with the work. However, there are a few strategies you can use to keep maintenance manageable:

●      Keep counters, tables, and other surfaces clear of clutter to speed up cleaning.

●      Stock extra bedding and towels so linens can be changed out without waiting for washing.

●      Automate air filter changes by using a subscription service that delivers filters on schedule. (Letting this task lapse could land your HVAC system in trouble.)

●      Schedule preventive HVAC maintenance to avoid inconvenient air conditioner breakdowns.

●      Use machine-washable duvet covers, slipcovers, and rugs to simplify stain clean-up.

●      Replace lawn and bare ground with low-maintenance plants and hardscaping.

●      Pay a cleaning service for monthly or quarterly deep cleanings.

Upgrading the Vacation Rental Experience

The above tips cover the basics of operating a vacation rental, but a few extra touches elevate the guest experience and encourage positive reviews. Consider adding these amenities to your vacation rental:

●      Keypad-entry lock.

●      High-speed Wi-Fi with a guest network

●      Cable TV or a Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video subscription

●      Multi-port USB chargers

●      Complimentary coffee and tea

●      Toys and games for kids

●      Guidebook with information on local attractions, transportation, and dining recommendations

Starting a vacation rental is a fantastic business venture, especially when you own property somewhere as desirable as the Charleston area. However, running a successful short-term rental also requires a lot of work! Whether you do it all yourself or turn to pros for a hand, the most important thing is making your vacation rental a clean, comfortable, and safe space for travelers to stay. When you show guests you care about their experience, you can rest assured they'll return for another visit.

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JUST LISTED!!  If you love the sought after neighborhood of Park Circle, in North Charleston, SC, you will want to check out this lovingly updated home which is located on an oversized corner lot. Located just a short bike ride to all the restaurants, shops and bars that Park Circle has to offer as well as an easy walk to the Mixon Club, you will enjoy the surrounding area which is loaded with options for residents, including the Danny Jones Aquatic Center, North Charleston's Riverfront Park and only blocks away from Felix Davis Community Center, home of the North Charleston Farmers Market from May through October.

The owners did some wonderful updates including a spa-like Master shower, quartz counters in the kitchen and baths, shiplapped walls and barn doors to create a true Southern feel to this home.  And, the lot size qualified for two separate dwellings which offers lots of potential for a mother-in-law suite or Airbnb-style tiny home to be built!

For details on this awesome home, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19002926

Contact me for more information!

Horse lovers and gentlemen farmers look no further! Just across the street from the Santee Cooper owned forest where you can ride your horses, this lovely property, located on a quiet country road, features a 2-stall 48'x48' +/- horse barn with wash-down area, large open area and apartment/lounge/tack room with brand new tankless water heater, offering lots of potential. Multiple fenced pastures with run-in sheds make this a perfect opportunity for boarding horses!

The 1456 sq ft 3BR/2B main residence, built in 2017, features an open concept floorplan, smooth 9' ceilings with recessed lights, master ensuite with tray ceiling, quality laminate flooring and crown molding throughout. Enjoy summer nights in your above-ground pool. The smaller barn, perfect for chickens, goats, or extra storage can hold 125 bales of hay and the container will hold an additional 300 bales of hay.  This turn-key farm includes a new septic system, Hot Walker, zero turn lawn mower and a John Deer Gator - all you have to do is bring your personal belongings and horses and move right it!  If relocating to the area, the new Volvo plant and Boeing are just a 30 minute drive and this country home is close to shopping, beaches, boating and all that Charleston, Summerville, Moncks Corner and the rest of the Lowcountry has to offer! 

For details, go to: http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=18028688