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Every homeowner could agree that buying your first home is an exciting moment in your life, but it could also be the most stressful. With lack of information and motivation, first-time home buyers often make some big mistakes.

Here are some of the most common slip-ups you should avoid when getting ready to buy for the first time!

Forgetting to weigh all their home-buying options

Many first-time home buyers think that buying a home is a concrete rite of passage that is inevitable in their lives. However, they neglect to see that buying a home isn’t the only option, and is definitely not the cheapest. Evaluate your situation and housing plan. If you are thinking of settling down for the long haul, then buying a house is a wise investment. Take advantage of the homeowner benefits, including home equity, property taxes, and actually owning a home and knowing your consistent costs for the future.

On the other hand, if you are almost certain that your next home will only be for a couple years, then renting might be the best option. Renting is not only cost-effective, but it supports the likelihood that you’ll be moving again within your five-year-plan. This is especially true for the younger generation that currently stays at their jobs for only a couple of years before moving onto the next step, and who knows where that next step will take them?

Passing on the home inspection

This is a huge mistake made home buyers looking to cut down on house hunting expenses. Though saving money is important, a home inspection might actually prove more so. If you skip the home inspection, you are at risk of buying a house that needs more money than you bargained for. Then you’re left spending more than the amount you would have paid for an inspector!

This professional walk-through is vital to your home-buying process for several reasons. An expert will be able to see potential problems unlike anyone else because they have a trained eye that knows exactly what to look for. Also, this gives you an opportunity to learn about your potential house and the best ways to maintain it. Inspectors can answer any questions that you may have about cracks, smells or other areas you might be worried about.

Not learning about the property

First-time home buyers often neglect to learn more about their potential property and its location, which is a big mistake. The house and the community it resides in may become your new home, so be sure to conduct the proper research.

This means visiting the property more than once. You can go to a showing in the afternoon on a weekday, but it won’t be a valid example of the environment as a whole. If you visit the property at different times throughout a week, you can see if the traffic gets congested near your house during rush hour as well as experience your potential neighbors when they get home from work.

While you’re at it, take note of the community around you. Consider your lifestyle and how this new place could affect it. Are there schools nearby? This could be an advantage if you have children, but could be a problem if you don’t want to be kept up late by those Friday night football games.

Relying too much on the Internet

As of recently, home buyers are turning to online sources to learn about their home values and loan information. The Internet is a great resource for home buyers to perform their own research, but that’s all it should be used for – research. You can’t put too much faith on what you find online because it’s not always reliable. That’s why interviewing and working with a lender in-person, will provide the clarity you need about your mortgage. They will be able to explain misunderstandings with fees, ownership costs, and other terms you may have questions about.

It is also apparent that home-buyers are getting their hopes up due to online home values. Some sites can give buyers an inaccurate home value which isn’t fair to the client. Think about taking a drive with an agent around the neighborhoods you’re looking into so they can give you a better explanation for a home’s value.

Failing to plan their finances

Many first-time home buyers are very conscious about how much money they’re willing to spend, however there are a couple of ways to get tripped up in the process.

Some home buyers purchase properties beyond their budget even when they have a budget! This could be because they didn’t realize all of the costs that came with buying a home, including property taxes, closing costs, and association dues. It is the responsibility of the buyer to understand the costs and ensure they can pay them before closing the deal.

Another mistake frequently made by home buyers is not getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This solution could save you from spending beyond your means and keep you looking at houses in your price range. U.S. News & World Report says a pre-approved mortgage will prove beneficial when you find the home of your dreams and need to place an offer immediately.

A solution that may prove beneficial in avoiding these mistakes could be working with a trusted real estate agent. With more than 20 years of experience, John Lee is the expert you want on the job! Check out his featured listings or call him at 843-575-2820 today to find your new home here in South Carolina.

Filed under: Fripp Island Homes for Sale by Fripp Island Real Estate
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What is it about being close to the ocean that makes us feel calm and happy? If you’ve ever experienced a sense of wonder and delight while looking out over the waves, then you know what we’re talking about.

As it turns out, the emotion of happiness that we experience when we’re close to the water is actually a psychological reaction to the ocean that happens in our brains. Did you know that people who live near the water tend to be happier and healthier? Read on for a look at the various reasons why we love being near the water.

Humans’ History with Water

Throughout our history, as people have migrated and grown their tribes and families, explored the planet, and planted new roots, we’ve followed the water. Explorers who sailed the oceans and rivers looking for new lands and experiencing different cultures often spent a majority of their lives at sea or on the river, so to them, the water was home. It also propelled them on their journey, and was a necessary way to travel from one place to another.

For that reason, the water represents possibilities, adventure, excitement and comfort, all at the same time. While being close to a large body of water is deeply comforting and causes us to feel relaxed and at home, it is also endless and largely unexplored, that gives us a sense of excitement and awe. Conde Nast Traveler says just as we may seek the water on our vacations from our everyday lives, explorers sought the water for the horizons they opened.

Stimulating our “Blue Minds”

According to Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., a marine biologist and author of a book titled Blue Mind, being close to the water gives us an immeasurable sense of peace. According to Conde Nast Traveler, his book talks about a so-called “blue mind” which describes the state that our brains enter when we are near the ocean. We are often overworked and overstimulated during our daily lives, but when we are faced with the ocean or a body of water that feels like home to us, we’re able to block out all of the noise and stress and enter our “blue mind,” which is peaceful and empty.

In an excerpt from Blue Mind on Salon.com, Nichols says that the water “adds to, enhances, and expands” our efforts to reach a calm and mindful state.

Life Depends on Water

From an evolutionary point of view, the water literally gives us life: humans need it to survive.  Humans are a species that were built to depend on the water. We need to drink it to survive, and use it as a method of travel to get where we need to go, and eat the foods that it provides us like fish and mollusks to live. So, some part of our bodies having a psychosomatic reaction to the waves has to do with the fact that we know that we need those drops of water to live. Who wouldn’t be grateful and a little bit in awe?

Living Near the Water Makes us Healthier

Conde Nast Traveler says that living near the water can actually make us healthier. Studies have found that people who live near the ocean, a bay, or a river are generally healthier, as well as happier. This could be due to the fact that living by the ocean causes people to stress less—and stress can often lead to detrimental health issues, like weight gain, and even cause more serious issues like heart attacks.

Plus, if you live near the ocean in a place that has temperate weather year-round, you may be more physically active than people who live further inland. It’s a more attractive pastime to go for a walk on the beach than it is to go for a walk on a busy, noisy street—and a walk on the beach is better exercise than sitting in your car and driving to work each day.

Bodies of water also offer lots of opportunities for sports. Whether you’re a paddle-boarder, kayaker, jet-skier, or water-skier, there are plenty of opportunities to break a sweat by the water.

Benefits of the Color Blue

Studies have shown the color blue to be calming to the mind: the blue color of the ocean has the same effect (or perhaps an even more powerful one) as painting your office space blue to stimulate concentration and calmness.

Here on Fripp Island, we take ocean views very seriously. If you’re looking for a little bit of calmness in your life, and want to live closer to the water to reap all the wonderful benefits that come with being in the ocean’s proximity, call real estate agent John Lee at Fripp Island Real Estate today at 843-575-2820.

To get an idea of some of our available properties, click here to check out our ocean-view properties, and click here to view our ocean-front properties!

Filed under: Blog, Fripp Island Beachfront Real Estate, Fripp Island SC, Waterfront Homes Fripp Island by Fripp Island Real Estate
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Getting into the real estate game can be good fun, as well as a good long-term investment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or you flip houses for a living, there are plenty of options on the market in any given state, especially when you’re talking about investment properties.

Some properties are better than others for certain people, depending on your short and long-term goals. If you’ve considered buying a vacant lot, but aren’t quite sure what’s involved in that process, or what your profit might be if you plan to sell it down the line, Fripp Island Real Estate is here to break down the details for you. Read on to learn more about what you need to know before you purchase a vacant lot, whether it’s in the Fripp Island neighborhood or somewhere else in the country.

Determine Your Plans

Purchasing a vacant lot is a lot like buying a blank canvas: the possibilities are endless. You could build a home and use it as a rental property, you could build a home for you and your family to live in, you could build a retail space, or you could drop a tiny house on the property and call it a day. No matter what your plans might be, determine a direction you want to move in.

If you’ll be building a home and flipping the property, your investment is short-term. If you plan to hang on to the lot for more than 5 or 10 years, you might be in it for the long-term profit when it comes time to sell.

Knowing what your plans are can help you find the right property; after all, not every property is right for every person’s goals.

Do the Research

According to How Stuff Works, one of the biggest traps people fall into with purchasing vacant lots is that they jump in without considering contingencies. If you purchased a house that had a 30-year old roof, you might plan to replace it someday, which could impact the price you’re willing to pay for the home. While there isn’t typically a structure on a vacant lot, unexpected costs can come up, so it’s important to do your homework before you sign on the dotted line.

Stauffer & Sons suggest asking the city about natural resource rights associated with the property. There might be restrictions on what you can do with the land if, for example, it’s near a lake that’s used for drinking water.

Make sure your building plans for the lot will be approved with the city and town zoning committees—some vacant lots won’t allow certain types of structures to be built, so it’s important to double check with the town before you purchase.

Ask if plumbing and electrical have been run to the lot; if not, expect an added expense to have all of your utilizes set up.

And, ask if the town plans to run any roads through the area in the near future; if they’re building a highway and plan to run a portion of it right along your property line, it might not be the ideal place to build.

Choose Wisely: Location, Location, Location

The location of your lot is important, but the location that will work best for you depends on what your plans are for the property. Consider things like school zones if you have young kids, or plan to in the future. If your property is in a remote area, it may not be zoned yet for the local public schools. Talk to the city about how that process will work so that you know which school district you’ll be zoned to.

Does the property have road access? If you drove up on a mud or gravel road, consider the cost—and the potential headache—of working with the town to lay public roads in the area. If you’ll privately own the roads, and are allowed to pave them, there’s additional cost involved in laying asphalt, too.

If you want to use the property as an investment, consider things like timber trade and the eventual development of the area. Will it turn into a cool vacation getaway in a few years? Will the local timber companies come knocking on your door, asking to purchase or rent your property? Both of these instances could mean that it will be a very lucrative investment, but make sure you have a good understanding of the town’s real estate market and plans for the future before diving in.

Natural Hazard Disclosure

The Balances says you should obtain a natural hazard disclosure from the county to look for soil issues before purchasing. Some areas may have naturally occurring asbestos or extremely high radon levels, which might not make the land an ideal place to build a home.

Surveying

Another expense you might need to pay with a vacant lot, regardless of what your plans are for the property, is surveying. Check with the town to see how recently your property was surveyed, and if it was more than a few years ago, you should plan on spending a bit of money to have professional surveyors come out. The cost of the survey will largely depend on the size and terrain of the property.

Purchasing a vacant lot can be an overwhelming process for many buyers, especially when there are a lot of unknowns. The real estate agent you’re working with will be able to answer a lot of these questions for you; just make sure you ask them! If you’re interested in purchasing a vacant lot in the Fripp Island neighborhood, click here to view our listings and call John Lee today at 843-575-2820 for more information!

Filed under: Fripp Island Real Estate, Vacant Lots in Fripp Island by Fripp Island Real Estate
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Here on Fripp Island, we can hardly believe that 2017 is winding down already. Looking back at the year, we’ve seen some really interesting trends in luxury interior design; but looking ahead to next year, we’re really excited about how some of our favorite upcoming trends may play out. Everything in home design trend is cyclical, and after the past few years of modern design with clean lines and impersonal settings, we have a feeling we know what’s ahead for 2018. Here’s a look at some of our predictions for luxury interior design trends for next year that you may already see cropping up in open houses.

Cozy

Past luxe design trends have tended towards the super modern, with very clean lines, expensive furniture that was functional and non-impactful on the space, and colors like gray, black and white. This modern design was definitely partially a reaction to the cluttered, colorful spaces that we lived in in the 70s and 80s. Next year, Lushome predicts that we’ll see a return to cozy, moving away from clean, impersonality, with a totally different approach to design and décor.

Expect to see heightened awareness of comfort in 2018, with reading nooks in master bedrooms for a dedicated spot to unwind and recharge, living spaces that focus on human interaction rather than the television set—perhaps a fireplace will be located in its place—and kitchens that are more about comfort than stainless steel functionality.

Warm Colors

Remember the gray and black tones we mentioned from modern trends of the past? Expect to them to vanish, replaced with warmer, still neutral tones. We expect to see trends in 2018 that focus on green and brown, as well as white, red, orange and yellow. Gates Interior Design says to picture the earthy tones of the 70s and mid-century modernism. We’ll see a lot of warmth in color tones, as well as materials used. Huffington Post predicts heightened use of ruby red in design and décor.

Materials

There won’t be too much laminate in the homes of the future—instead, it’ll be a return to what was, with dark wood flooring and cabinets, cork, soft textiles, and lots of interesting lighting. Recessed lighting was all about lighting the room without noticing the light fixture, but now there will be a heavy design trend towards highlighting unique and striking light fixtures as a part of the room’s décor. Natural stone may be used as inspiration for flooring and walls, and you might see marble, granite and pebbles creating entryways and flooring.

Expect to see touches of recycled elements throughout luxury homes in 2018, with a trend towards sustainability and eco-friendliness. You’ll see unique furniture, decorations, and materials used.

2018 may also see more intricate and customized carpentry, which will be used to create both furniture and furnishings in the modern home.

Imperfection

The Huffington Post says to expect imperfection in your 2018 luxury home—but they aren’t talking about the building itself. Rather, the imperfection trend harkens back to the idea of coziness. Luxury homes next year won’t be the large, white unwelcoming mansions that they have been in the past with waxed flooring and gigantic staircases. Instead, they’ll be livable and welcoming, with imperfect décor and comfortable design. 2018 homes will welcome you in, and make you feel like snuggling up on the couch with a cup of coffee.

Bright Lights

Expect to see lighting incorporated into design in a very impressive way—gone are the days of recessed lighting; now, the lighting fixture will be a centerpiece for each room’s design. You can expect to see lots of chandeliers and interesting lighting fixtures, along with a lot of bright bulbs. 2018 will be all about a bright, welcoming, cozy home. Even if your new luxury home doesn’t feature chandeliers, you can expect that it will be extremely well-lit, and have big beautiful windows to let the sunshine in!

Luxury Homes on Fripp Island

Fripp Island is a very special place to visit, and if you’re familiar with the area then you know that there are lots of real estate options when it comes to luxury living. Whether you’re looking for a luxury beach cottage overlooking the waves, an impressive estate on the bay where your family can enjoy the island for generations to come, or an island abode perfectly suited to your summertime outdoor sports, Fripp & Harbor Island Properties is here to help.

John Lee, an experienced agent, has years of experience in the area, and has sold luxury properties to dozens of satisfied customers. Fripp Island and the surrounding areas is perfect for luxury investment properties, seasonal getaway homes, or your main residence.

If you’re interested in learning more about the luxury real estate market on Fripp Island, contact Fripp & Harbor Island Properties today by calling 843-575-2820 or emailing John Lee at john@fripprealestate.com. Happy (almost) New Year!

Filed under: Fripp Island Homes for Sale, Fripp Island Oceanfront Homes, Fripp Island Real Estate by Fripp Island Real Estate
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Your home search will only be as good and successful as your realtor: if you’ve never had to hire one before, here are some tips, courtesy of Fripp Island Real Estate, on how to pick the right realtor for you.

Referrals

It can be hard to get to know an agent based on their ad online. If you have a friend or family member who recently worked with a real estate agent, ask them for a referral. Talking with recent clients is also a great way to rule out companies and agents you don’t want to work with.

Heed the warning if you have a friend who said they had a terrible experience with one particular agent or agency. Sure, it could have been a fluke situation, but you don’t want to take the risk.

If you’re curious about an agent, but don’t personally know anyone who’s recently worked with him or her, see if their website includes client testimonials.

Specialists

Many real estate companies hire tons of people to cover large areas of land. But when you’re looking for a home in a specific neighborhood, it’s best to choose an agent that specializes in the area. The same goes for sellers.

For example, John Lee from Fripp Real Estate, has been a resident of Fripp Island for many years. In that time, he’s worked with over 400 buyers and sellers to help them find their dream home, or sell their home on the island.

When you choose an agent who not only lives in the area you want to buy, but has been an agent for that specific town for many years, you’re gaining a wealth of knowledge. He or she will know the real estate market inside and out, and can help point you in the direction of a good or a bad deal. He or she may have even worked with the buyer or seller before, and give you advice on how to speed up the process and get what you want out of the deal.

Find Them Online

Bank Rate says that you shouldn’t take their word for it that they’re licensed; check your target state’s regulatory board to make sure that your agent is properly licensed. You may also be able to find history on any disciplinary or legal actions that could be a red flag.

An agent who lies to you about their accreditation is not an agent you want to work with.

Current Listings

After you ensure that your agent has the proper paperwork, check out their online listings. You can check out the agent’s website, or look on popular home buying sites like Zillow, to see what properties are currently up for sale under the agent’s name.

Check to see if your price range matches up with some of his or her properties; if they are all multi-million dollar homes, and you want to keep the purchase price around $300,000, it might be best to go with another agent. An agent who doesn’t typically buy and sell in your price range won’t be an expert on your particular bracket of the real estate market.

Ask About Marketing

US News and World Report says that selling a home comes down to the agent’s marketability. Ask your potential agent how he or she plans to market your home. Will they hire a professional photographer? Do they recommend home staging? What sites will the photos be posted to? How many open houses should you expect?

Have a Meeting

Whether you’re buying a home or selling one, there’s no doubt about it that you’ll be spending a lot of time with your agent—there will be long negotiations, tours of homes and neighborhoods, and discussions via phone calls and emails, potentially for a couple weeks until you find the right fit.

It’s important to make sure that you and your agent get along. It may sound silly, but if your agent has a different style than you do, it could make the process cumbersome. Choose someone who’s direct, if you appreciate that quality. If you’re looking for someone to be a bystander, and just show you homes so that you can make your own decision, look for someone with a more passive approach.

The key is to choose someone who you get along with, but won’t be uncomfortable having discussions about money and offers with. Pick someone that you can see yourself spending the day with in the car, checking out homes for sale in the neighborhood.

Move to Fripp Island & Choose Island Life

Have you been searching for the perfect home in the perfect town, and coming up empty? It’s time to consider island life. If you’re thinking about relocating to Fripp Island, John Lee is an expert agent—click here to check out his featured listings, and give him a call today at 843-575-2820.

Filed under: Fripp Island Real Estate, Fripp Island SC by Fripp Island Real Estate
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Summer’s over, but that doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance to book a relaxing vacation. Many people choose to book in the fall because of the multitude of benefits they receive during the cooler autumn season.

Fall festivals

There are many reasons you and your family should take a vacation in the fall, but one of the most riveting experiences you’ll have is at an autumn festival. Festivals, whether they are food, music, or arts and crafts centered, give your family a taste of the sights, smells, and traditions native to a particular region.

South Carolina’s long list of festival offerings are culturally rich and stimulating, steeped in civil war history and southern charm. There’s a festival dedicated to almost every activity, including apple picking, antiques, Native American history, and nature.

Beaufort, South Carolina is known largely for its annual shrimp festival, which is held every October in Lowcountry. Seafood lovers have the opportunity to sample marine cuisine from some of the area’s best restaurants and they also have a chance to walk along a harbor lined with lighted shrimp boats.

Best time to travel

People who prefer a more low-key travel experience may want to consider booking their trip during September and October, a time when condo and hotel rates on beachfront properties are significantly cheaper than if they were to book during the busy summer months. Airplane rates are also cheaper during the fall months.

Another benefit of booking in the fall: fewer crowds. Tourist season normally winds down in the fall, meaning you won’t have to fight the crowds for the best accommodations. Fripp Island is a popular destination among out-of-towners because of its beautiful location stretched along the coast of Beaufort, South Carolina, away from the busy streets and loud noises of metropolitan life. Some people never want to leave, so they claim a permanent piece of paradise!

The autumn season provides the perfect transitioning weather. It’s that time of year when the sun kisses our cheeks until the evening glow of dusk envelops us in breathtaking sight. It’s not too cold at this time of year, so packing for your fall vacation should be a breeze as you won’t need to worry about bringing a ton of bulky sweaters along with you. That means you’ll have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs!

Outdoor activities

For the avid nature adventurist, South Carolina provides the perfect outdoor playground. From beaches and outdoor lounges to hiking and biking trails, there’s an activity to suit the interests of every kind of outdoor enthusiast.

For the more laid-back nature enthusiast, there are a handful of waterfront parks and recreational sites in Beaufort, South Carolina that make for perfect picnicking spots. Visitors can walk along the boardwalks and take in the beauty of their southern surroundings!

Fripp Island is a favorite destination for people who enjoy water activities such as sailing and fishing. Considered one of South Carolina’s furthest barrier islands, the resort is located only a few miles from the Intracoastal Waterway marina, which is readily accommodating.

The sub-tropical temperatures attract a host of beautiful creatures to Flipp Island’s three and a half mile-wide wildlife sanctuary. You’ll be amazed at what other unique creatures you’ll stumble upon! Be on the lookout for beach-dwelling Loggerhead seas turtles, Lagoon-looming alligators, and sky-surfing pelicans when you tour the island.

Benefits of self-care

Why do so many people choose to vacation at the beach during the autumn months? It’s because it’s much more relaxing at this time of the year. While the rest of the world is preparing to turn over a new leaf in their schools, homes, and work places, you’re choosing to do so with the comfort of warm sand beneath your feet!

The sound of the ocean is peaceful to many, and actually helps you sleep better. A beach atmosphere also provides a replenishing dose of Vitamin D, which is great for your skin, hair, and diet. The coastal lifestyle attracts many people to the glorious beaches of Flipp Island and the surrounding South Carolina areas every year, where many people leave feeling energized and refreshed.

Your vacation is what you make of it, and if you’re choosing to vacation at the beach, you’ll definitely stay more active than most. Food and beverage doesn’t need to be the focus of your itinerary, although those things certainly enhance the experience. Walking on sand takes more muscle power than walking on pavement, so we encourage you to stroll along the coast of our island resort or join a group volleyball match on the beach!

We want to make sure you’re making the most of your fall vacation. Fripp & Harbor Island Properties knows how important it is to escape for a little while and enjoy the things you love to do the most. Discover how breathtaking an oceanfront rental property truly is and give us a call today at 843-575-2820 so we can help you!

Filed under: Fripp Island Oceanfront Homes, Fripp Island Real Estate, Fripp Island SC by Fripp Island Real Estate
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If you’ve been debating whether or not a vacation home is right for you, Fripp Island Real Estate is here to help. Today, we’ll be talking about some of the many benefits you’ll enjoy when you own a vacation home! Just imagine being able to go on vacation whenever you want to!

Investment

A second vacation home is a great way to invest money for your family’s future. The real estate market may fluctuate from one month to the next, but overall it trends upward—which means that a vacation home is a great long term investment.

Along with the investment benefits that you’ll have after owning your home for a few years and then re-selling it, owning two homes will also afford you many tax breaks. If you rent the property for a few weeks out of the year, you can deduct your mortgage, interest and property taxes.

Rental Income

Speaking of renting the property, if you plan on only visiting a few times per year, why not rent the property out to other vacationers? It’ll be a great way for you to make extra income—you may even be able to recoup the amount you need to pay per month on your mortgage.

If dealing with rental applications and being a vacation landlord doesn’t sound like something you’d be interested in doing, you can always hire a local real estate agency to handle the rentals for you. They’ll post an ad for your home on their site, handle all of the nitty gritty business, and take a small cut of your rental income.

Convenience

Money Crashers says that the convenience of owning a second home can’t be underestimated. Rather than shelling out thousands of dollars for a vacation at a hotel, you’ll always have someplace to go that you know will be affordable, and knowing that your family will be comfortable is also a huge plus. Don’t worry about packing up the car and getting to your vacation destination, or tracking checked luggage. Instead, you can always equip your second home for everything you will need for your vacation!

Retirement

Owning a second home is a great way to plan for your retirement. If you purchase the home you plan to retire in before you reach retirement age, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll have a place to go that’s paid for. If you plan to retire in your vacation home, you may want to look for one-level homes, to make getting around easy as you get older. Many vacation destinations are built with older generations in mind, so you’ll be able to find the perfect home for retirement easily.

Family Tradition

For your kids, growing up with a vacation home will create memories that will last a lifetime, and encourage the building of traditions. They’ll make friends in your vacation town, learn about different cultures, and enjoy having their own space at the vacation home that they can make their own.

Vacation homes also make a great place to host family reunions, holidays, and special occasions. Extended family can come to stay and enjoy the home!

Fripp Island

If the idea of owning a vacation home sounds good to you, but if you’re not sure where you would like to settle, consider Fripp Island. Fripp Island is one of the most beautiful and luxurious counties in South Carolina; it’s a great place to buy a vacation home and even eventually retire.

Fripp Island is home to plenty of options when it comes to golfing, fishing, boating, and more vacation activities. It’s a quiet town, perfect for vacationing with your kids, and enjoying the beautiful beach scenery. Whether you’re looking for a large home with tons of acreage, or a condo in a community with amenities like a swimming pool and landscaping, Fripp Island has plenty of options for you.

Next Steps

When you’re ready to commit to buying a vacation home, the first thing you’ll need to do is identify where you want to buy. If you’ve decided you want to settle down on Fripp Island, next consider what kind of home you want: a single-family home, a one-story home with retirement in mind, or a condo. Zillow says it’s important to match your housing choices to your lifestyle, so think about what you’re looking for from your vacation home in the long term.

If you want to make the property mainly a rental property for now, you may want to consider homes that have guest houses where you can stay when you want to visit if you have a renter.

Go over the costs and the line items, and make sure you’ll be able to afford everything. Don’t forget to factor in property taxes.

When you know what you’re looking for, contact Fripp Island Real Estate at 843-575-2820 today, to get the search started! There are a wide variety of Fripp Island homes for sale so it’s easy to find the vacation or retirement home of your dreams!

Filed under: Blog, Fripp Island Real Estate, Fripp Island SC by Fripp Island Real Estate
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Fripp Island, located just off of the coast of South Carolina is a very popular spot for boating and fishing since it is considered a barrier island.

With the beautiful weather all year long, you can always head out for a day of fun in the sun especially with the close marina, charter services and annual fishing tournaments.

Marina                                        

The marina has everything you need for all of your boating needs. If you need help getting your boat ready to go on a water adventure, you can utilize the in-out ramp service or fill your boat up with gas so you can enjoy a long day in the sun. Are you a seasonal resident? Leave your boat at the marina while you are away. The marina has 120 convenient dry slips for long-term storage as well as 65 wet slips. For everything else boat and water related, the Marina Store is your destination. If you are leaving or returning from a boat trip, you can find restrooms and showers available. If you are looking to stock your boat, the store has live and frozen bait, tackle, sunscreen, ice and drinks and sandwiches and salads from the deli.

Have you been eager to test your balance while paddle boarding? Rentals and tours are offered daily in season at the marina. Visit Nalu or call 843-284-6258 to learn more and ask any questions you may have.

Whether you are an experienced angler or you are just getting started, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy in the area. At Fripp Island Marina and Services you can choose offshore or inshore fishing, where you will be accompanied by an experienced charter guide. If you decide to offshore fish in the Gulf Stream, you are likely to catch sailfish, mahi-mahi, barracuda, kingfish, marlin, wahoo, grouper or snapper. If you would rather inshore fish, the South Carolina coast is the place for you. Around Fripp Island, trout, flounder, red drum, cobia, tarpon and Spanish mackerel are plentiful. Whether you live on Fripp Island or are visiting on vacation, there is really no excuse not to check out the great fishing spots near you!

Fishing tournaments

There are numerous fishing events throughout the year that you can look forward to. Every May, the Fripp Island Resort Marina hosts the Memorial Day Fishing Tournament where anglers hit the water at sunrise and weigh in their catch later on in the evening to see who get awarded for the largest wahoo, dolphin, king mackerel and Spanish mackerel.

One of the biggest fishing events of the year is the annual Kingfish Tournament. Participants can compete against each other in search for a prize catch and it’s the perfect opportunity to reel in an impressive sized kingfish!

Every October is the Owen Perry Inshore Tournament  where all proceeds benefit Camp Rainbow. This camp is for Children’s Hospital of Georgia hematology and oncology patients. At Camp Rainbow, children with cancer and their siblings spend relaxing, fun-filled days with children in similar situations.

Younger fishermen, ages 6 to 14, are able to compete in their own event, the Kid’s Fishing Tourney in November. This event is usually held the day after Thanksgiving and anglers aim for trout, bass, flounder, spot and croaker. Participants fish from the marina docks, boats, in the surf, private fishing hole or from the Maxwell Memorial Bridge. Since there is no entry fee, fishermen must supply their own rod, reel and tackle.

If you are interested in one of the annual tournaments, fill out the online application to get started. There are several terrific spots around the island to sit back, relax and reel in some fish.

Water activities like boating and fishing are only a few of the many reasons why purchasing or renting a home on Fripp Island is a great idea. Let Fripp & Harbor Island Properties help you find your perfect vacation residence or perfect home on this breathtaking island. We have shared Fripp Island’s treasures with new residents for 19 years where we helped each person find the perfect property. Search through our properties online now and contact us at 843-575-2820 today so we can help you through this exciting time in your life!

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Are you thinking about visiting or better yet moving to Fripp Island this summer? If so, you’re in luck. This barrier island, located along the Atlantic coast of South Carolina, is known for its resort amenities, natural conservation and is packed with several summer activities for the whole family to enjoy.

With plenty of entertainment and fun options, were sure you’ll have a Frippin’ great summer!

Golf

There are two championship golf courses located on Fripp Island, Ocean Point golf links and Ocean Creek golf course. Both courses offer a driving range, chipping area, practice bunker and putting green. Each course also offers several tournaments and special events throughout the year. Interested in golf lessons? Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort has an experienced staff of PGA professionals and offer instructional programs for all ages.

Tennis

Itching to perfect your serve and backhand strokes? The racquet club offers an active tennis summer program that includes varied programs for adults and juniors. Tennis pros are always on hand with tips on how you can move to the next level.

Fishing

The Fripp Island Marina is just a few miles from the Intercostal Waterway and offers charter fishing services and fishing tournaments as well as a marina market and deli for everything you might need for a day at sea.

Island Rentals

Do you want to explore all that the island has to offer but you’re not sure how to get around? If you present your club guest card at Island Rentals, you’ll be able to try golf carts, scooters, bicycles, kayaks and boat rentals. Although cars and trucks are allowed on the roads, golf carts and bicycles are very popular and are used among residents and visitors alike.

Pontoon Cruises

The best way to experience the beautiful waterways along Fripp Island is to take a cruise on Fripper II. You’ll have the option of taking a fishing cruise, dolphin cruise, sunset cruise, shelling cruise and a private or party cruise. With the variety of cruises available, you’ll have the opportunity to make memories on the water that will last a lifetime.

Paddle Boarding

Looking to try something a little more advanced than kayaking? Check out the paddle board shop on the docks at the marina. Stand-up-paddle boarding tours, rentals and paddle board yoga are all available as well as private surf lessons, surfboard rentals, boogie board rentals and skim board rentals.

Activity & Nature Center

Near the Cabana Club, nestled in the trees, is an Activity and Nature Center that offers different programs and an up close look at some inhabitants and wildlife of Fripp Island. There are also several activities on a nightly basis such as archery practice, birding, corn hole, golf cart scavenger hunt and more.

Swimming

Trying to stay cool during the summer in South Carolina can be challenging without access to water. Luckily there are several swimming options available on Fripp Island such as the Cabana Club Complex, The Marina Pool, The Olympic Pool, Adult Pool, Ocean Point Pool as well as beach access with available beach rentals such as beach chairs and umbrellas to make your day even more comfortable.

Shopping

If you don’t prefer swimming but still want to get out of the sun, there are several stores to browse in such as the Fripp Ship, Mangos and Ocean Point Pro Shops and Ocean Creek Pro Shops.

Fripp Island is a cozy and welcoming destination that appeals to nature-lovers as well as outdoor sport enthusiasts. Discover the beauty of Fripp Island for yourself and emerge into great experiences just outside of your door. To learn more about the homes that are available on Fripp Island, call Fripp Island Real Estate today at 843-575-2820.

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Where can you go to eat in the Fripp Island area?

For starters, there’s the Springtide Market & Deli at 1 Tarpon Boulevard, right next to the Fripp Island Real Estate office. Springtide is at “the front of the island,” aka “the gateway to the island.” It’s a convenience store open daily from 9 to 5 where locals and tourists buy groceries as well as sandwiches and then some. Featuring fresh coffee and teas, beer and wine, ice cream, produce, soups and more, perhaps Springtide is best known for its deli sandwiches. If you love a good chicken or turkey salad sandwich, Springtide is the place to go. Furthermore, the place features “all day breakfast,” which is nice if you’re in the mood for sausage and biscuits in the late afternoon. From salads to burritos, and potato salad to cole slaw, this unique market/deli seems to have something for everyone. If you want to know more about Springtide Market & Deli, please call 843-838-0040.

Property owners on Fripp Island often eat at The Bonito Boathouse, a classic seafood restaurant at the Fripp Island Marina overlooking the docks. Did you know that Fripp Island is a limited access resort that functions like a gated development? Using its amenities requires the purchase of an amenity card– so you’ll need one to dine at the Bonito Boathouse. That said, Bonito Boathouse is considered to be one of the nicest places to eat dinner on the island. It has an extensive wine list and people come from near and far to try the various cocktails, like the caramel apple martini and the “Carolina Cosmo.” What are some of the restaurant’s specialties? How about the Sweet Maine Lobster Pie? It contains sweet lobster, coastal shrimp, and a Cognac lobster sauce capped in a crisp pastry lid. Diners also enjoy the crab cakes, broiled stuffed shrimp and snow crab legs. For those who don’t like seafood, try their sirloin or ribeye steak. Burgers and sandwiches are also available, and there’s a kid’s menu, too. For hours and directions to The Bonito Boathouse, please call 843-838-1506.

Looking for a nice place to eat breakfast on Fripp Island? Go to the Ocean Point Grille from 7 to 11 in the morning where you’ll find omelets and pancakes. At lunchtime (11am – 3pm), the place serves sandwiches, salads and burgers. Many golfers frequent the Ocean Point Grille; call 843-838-1508 for more information.

Speaking of golfers, as many people know, Fripp Island attracts golfers from around the nation to its beautiful courses. Fittingly, there’s a place called The 19th Hole. It’s in the Ocean Creek Clubhouse and has a nice patio overlooking the 18th hole. Open seasonally, The 19th Hole is where to go for breakfast or lunch while enjoying a day of golf. Call 843-838-1509 for details.

Also open seasonally is The Beach Club Food Court on Tarpon Boulevard, where families go for dine-in or carryout chicken, pizza, tacos, wraps, ice cream and more. Customers like the fried potato wedges and chicken strips. It’s right next to two pools– one for everybody and one for adults only, so it’s convenient when you’re hungry after a swim. At this property, you’ll also find the more formal Fripp Island Beach Club with a dining room overlooking the Atlantic. Customers rave about the lobster pot pie and the pecan crusted grouper, and you can enjoy wine with your meal here.

During the summer, people flock to the Cabana Club restaurant at 22 Sea Mist Road. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this place offers pools to swim in as well as fantastic views of Pritchard’s Island and Skull Inlet. Burgers, hot dogs, fries, sandwiches, salads and more are on the lunch menu here. Occasional specials can include fried catfish, gumbo and pulled pork. Willie’s Wet Bar serves exotic tropical drinks poolside. Call 843-838-1598 with any questions you might have.

Not too far from Fripp Island is the Johnson Creek Tavern at 2141 Sea Island Parkway on Harbor Island. Try their Jamaican Jerk pork chops, “Frogmore Stew” (a local tradition with shrimp, sausage, onions, peppers and corn), and/or the BBQ Ribs or stuffed flounder. Fried oysters by the bucket or on the half shell are popular here. Looking for shrimp served in Alfredo sauce mixed with grits? This is the place to get them. Call 843-838-4166 for hours and directions and to find out when they’re having live musical entertainment.

Along Highway 21 (Sea Island Parkway), about a twenty minute drive from Fripp Island proper, you’ll also find the Shrimp Shack, offering straight-up seafood eaten outdoors, as well as Boondocks (seafood, steak and ribs), Gullah Grub (chowders, gumbos, corn bread) and MJ’s Soul Food restaurant (ox tail, liver and onions and collard greens) among other drinking and dining establishments.

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