Winter time on Hilton Head

It's a cold and rainy night on Hilton Head Island. Perfect weather for curling up with my family, watching a Christmas movie, and sipping hot chocolate in front on the fireplace. Now if we only had a fireplace...

The temperature is a cool 53 degrees. However, if you're from someplace further north, come on down; the weather's fine!

Foggy morning on HHI

This weekend was fabulous on Hilton Head Island. The weather was beautiful with temperatures in the 60's & 70's.

My family and I enjoyed the annual Bluffton Christmas parade this past Saturday. This has become a family tradition that we all look forward to throughout the year. We typically like to arrive early, camp out a good spot to watch the parade. During the waiting time, we sit and play games. This year we taught our kids how to play charades. It made for some great laughs!

This morning is a foggy one on the island. Mornings like these make for some great photo opportunities.

Good news for the housing market!

In case you missed it, here is a copy of CNNMoney's report on the housing market:

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- The housing market picked up more momentum in August, as the average home price for 20 major cities jumped 0.9%, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller home price index.The increase marked the fifth consecutive month of gains for the index with all but one city, Seattle, recording month-over-month price increases. "The sustained good news in home prices over the past five months makes us optimistic for continued recovery in the housing market," said David Blitzer, spokesman for S&P. The Case-Shiller report is one of many gauges of housing market health that has turned upbeat in recent months. New and existing home sales have been stronger, inventory of homes for sale has fallen and developers have stepped up building activity. Slow improvement in the national economy has also boosted the housing market, as have record low mortgage rates. The rates for a 30-year loan have stayed below 3.7% since May. Combined with home prices that are still about a third less than they were when they hit their peak, these record-low rates have made homebuying very affordable.

If you are looking for a home on Hilton Head Island, or a house in Bluffton, please contact us and let us help!

App Updated!

The Hilton Head Happenings App has been updated! Version 4.01 is now available in the Google Play market. In this update, a Location Finder has been added, to help you find activities near you while visiting Hilton Head Island. A few other minor updates have been included, as well as some new Hilton Head businesses. The iPhone version is in Apple review, and should be coming soon. If you like the new version, please give 5 stars in your phone's app market review!

Also, for those of you missing the island, this picture is for you. We have great sunsets this time of year!

Website Overhaul

As part of taking over the office at Westbury Realty, I've been doing a website overhaul. Check it out and let me know what you think so far. HiltonHeadHappenings.com

Oceanfront Pet-friendly Condo reduced!

I just reduced this 1-bedroom beach oriented condo. Views of the ocean and beach from your porch. This could be your escape to paradise. Pet-friendly, and wifi included. Great rental income too!
Hilton Head MLS# 317420
Owner is SCREA.

Beach Picture on Hilton Head Island

This is one of my favorite beach pictures on Hilton Head Island. What is your favorite picture from Hilton Head Island?
Send comments or share your photos at admin@hiltonheadhappenings.com . With your permission, we will share your Hilton Head photos.

Hilton Head & Bluffton Community Updates

The Belfair Clubhouse has begun a 4,324 sqft expansion. Also, the Belfair new Dog Park has opened.

In Colleton River, the River Center and community dock renovations are complete. The enhancements to the River Center include a restroom facility near the parking lot, the expansion of the deck floor, and a roof over two-thirds of the dock, including lighting and fans. Added a kayak rack and kayak launcher, a fish cleaning station and a new pathway and lighting to the River Center.

The new Spring Lake Pavilion in Hilton Head Plantation is now complete.

Long Cove Clubhouse renovations to begin February 2013, and expected to be complete November 2013.

Windmill Harbour has begun renovating their front security building and entry from Hwy 278.

Thanks to the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors for contributing part of this information.

What to do on Hilton Head when it's raining

Ever wonder what there is to do in the Hilton Head area when it's raining? The daily afternoon thunder storms we've been having lately has brought this question to mind for many island vacationers. You could take in a movie. The other two obvious choices are shopping, and dining. But how about those bored kids? Located in Bluffton, a short drive off island, is Station 300. There, they offer bowling, arcade, and a restaurant. This could be the very thing your family needs for an afternoon activity. Check them out online at www.station300bluffton.com .

Live In Music

As a musician, a music teacher, and a Realtor in Hilton Head, I found this article quite interesting:
5 ways to live in music

Spa treatments on Hilton Head Island

What better way to relax than aspa treatment while on vacation on Hilton Head Island, SC? Find out more in this detail blog:
Hilton Head Island, SC Spa Resorts & Spa Treatments

Moving up!

The "Hilton Head Happenings" app is first in the search results list when looking up Hilton Head in Google Play! Check us out play.google.com

Hilton Head Happenings 2.0 for iPhone

My app, "Hilton Head Happenings," version 2.0 was updated in the iTunes store today! Many new features and improved user interface are included with this update. You can find use the app to find Hilton Head Island area information, calendar of events, dining, golf, local tides, real estate, and so much more! The HHH app is free and ready for download from the iTunes store.

Looking for listings!

I have a problem. Actually, it's a mixed bag. All of my listings have sold. On the one hand, that's great! On the other hand, in order to keep business going, I need more listings! If you, or someone you know in the Hilton Head Island / Bluffton area would like to sell their home, just contact me at 843-473-8107, or by email at jbonham@richardsongrp.com. I offer free home market analysis, and some of the most advanced marketing techniques in the area! I have the premier Hilton Head app for iPhone and Android, "Hilton Head Happenings," in which all my listings are available to any of these smartphone users. In addition, I am the Hilton Head area featured agent for our local Channel 11 News; a great marketing tool in which to showcase your home!

If you are looking to purchase a home, townhome, or villa in the Hilton Head Island area, I would be happy to show you what is available and help you find your perfect home!

Happy Fourth of July!

Happy 4th of July! This picture of little brother & big sis (my kids) was taken last 4th of July while watching the fireworks from Shelter Cove Park on Hilton Head Island.

Where are you celebrating this year, and who with? As you celebrate our independence this year, take a moment and think of the ones who have given their lives for YOUR independence...of all the service men and women, all the families that have sacrificed through the years, and all those who have given the greatest sacrifice, their lives, for you, all the way back to birth of our nation. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Sunset from Lemon Island

Lemon Island, located in Beaufort County, SC, is situated south of the town of Beaufort, and north of Hilton Head Island. Part of the island, 162 acres, is set aside as part of an open land trust. There photos were taken yesterday evening around sunset and high tide.

Hilton Head Happenings App

Major update for the Android version of my "Hilton Head Happenings" app now in the Google Play market available as a free download. Overall size of the app cut by more than 50% with added features! Main menu lists revamped & easier to click on. iPhone version in the works with even a few extra features coming! Waiting on Apple approval...

Happy Father's Day Weekend! Welcome to Hilton Head!

If you've heading to Hilton Head Island for Father's Day weekend, you couldn't have picked a better time! This morning is in the upper 70's, and not a cloud in the sky. I took this picture from the mainland, looking over the Intracoastal Waterway toward Hilton Head Island.

Another beautiful day!

It's another beautiful day on Hilton Head Island. The sun is out, and it's a comfortable 83°. I took this photo from the lock at Windmill Harbour, a private gated community on Hilton Head, with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Who wishes they were here?

Feeding the Dolphins

It's another beautiful morning here on Hilton Head, and I wanted to share with you a dolphin encounter. Yesterday evening, I was nearby when this group arrived back from their fishing charter. A dolphin stopped by to great them, and say "hello."

4 & 1/2 Stars!

The "Hilton Head Happenings" app (available for iPhone & Android) has 4 & 1/2 stars rating in Google Play market!  :) 
Have you downloaded this free app yet? Give it a try & let us know what you think. Thanks!

App update 2.1 & 1.1

My app, Hilton Head Happenings, was just updated in the Android market (Google Play) to version 2.1. The iPhone version 1.1 is going through Apple approval, and should be available soon!

Sunset over the Broad River

Ok, folks. Sorry I've been so quiet lately. I've been out of town for family wedding, military school graduation, and visiting family. Since I've been back home, I've been working feverishly fixing bugs in my app, and updating/adding all kinds of new information. There are also new coupons and videos from the island coming soon!

For those of you wanting a taste of the Lowcountry, here is a picture I took of tonight's sunset over the Broad River (actually salt water).

Windmill Harbour Boat Show

The Windmill Harbour 8th In Water Boat Show is going on right now. The weather is cooperating, and it's beautiful. Boats on display from 50' to 5' and everything between. Real Estate and Yacht Club tours all day long! 

The weekend is upon us!

80°, blue skies, hardly a cloud in sight, and the weekend is upon us. Why aren't you on Hilton Head Island yet?

Now available for the iPhone!

The Hilton Head Happenings app is now available for the iPhone! Download now (wifi connection recommended) and help with a great rating in the App Store!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hilton-head-happenings/id515930018?mt=8

Yes, our seafood is local

I was working at a local seafood restaurant, and a man eating at the outside deck began questioning,"how do you know that the shrimp is local?" (I thought, "you mean besides the fact there are working shrimp boats docked right behind us?") So I quipped back, "Do you know how you can tell when the shrimp are not local?... They have an accent."

In case you missed it...

A great article from Forbes about our local PGA tour event, The Heritage, taking place this week:
Masters over, now what? PGA tour moves to players favorite venue!

Happy Easter

Happy Easter everyone! Jesus IS Risen!

Best Beaches

Did you know that Hilton Head Island was voted as having the 2nd best beaches in the U.S.? Check it out at
http://www.10best.com/TravelAwards/Vote/best-beaches/

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter egg hunt anyone? Getting ready for the annual Westbury Community Easter Egg Hunt this morning. Look closely at the picture and you will see the fields dotted with hundreds of colorful eggs.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"Labor disgraces no man. Unfortunately, you occasionally find men who disgrace labor."
 - Ulysses S. Grant

HHH app for iPhone in process

Today I submitted the Hilton Head Happenings App for review in the iTunes market. It should be available for the iPhone in "5 to 10 business days." I will get you posted when it is officially available. For now, you can preview it on my website at hiltonheadhappenings.com .

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
 - Bill Cosby

Warm & Sunny Hilton Head Island

I was thinking about writing a blog/facebook/twitter post today, but the 77° weather and sunshine on Hilton Head Island lured me outside. Maybe I'll post tomorrow.

Hilton Head Homes on the Move

Check out my most recent sale on Hilton Head Island:

facebook.com



Thoughts on Tuesdays

"Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest."
 - Mark Twain

Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival

The 27th Annual Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival is now taking place.  The event will be wrapping up tomorrow.  Have you been yet?  Check out more details at the website http://www.hiltonheadisland.org/winefest/

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"Curiously enough, it is often the people who refuse to assume any responsibility who are apt to be the sharpest critics of those who do."
 - Eleanor Roosevelt

Pinckney Wildlife Refuge

View of the ICW, from the dock near Pinckey Wildlife Refuge.  Pickney Island is just across the bridge from Hilton Head Island, situated between Bluffton and HHI, SC.  You can learn more about Pinckey Island by visiting http://www.fws.gov/pinckneyisland/ .

Looking for a boatslip deal?

Looking for a locked harbour on the ICW in close proximity to the Atlantic? We've got a 30 ft. slip in Windmill Harbour offered at $40,000! The lowest priced slip available in this fabulous community. Call us today for more information. (843)681-5600
http://t.co/LDptxHU9

On Home Maintenance...

• 

  The Value of Home Maintenance

  Regular home maintenance is key to preserving the value of your house and property. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Want to find our what your home is worth on Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, SC? Contact us here.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"We haven't failed. We now know a thousand things that won't work, so we are much closer to finding what will."
 - Thomas Edison

Considering Refinancing?

• 

  5 Reasons for a Mortgage Refinance Other Than Lowering Your Payment

  There’s more to a mortgage refinance than lowering your monthly payments. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Click to find real estate in Bluffton, SC.

On Buying Your Home...

• 

  How to Assess the Real Cost of a Fixer-Upper House

  When you buy a fixer-upper house, you can save a ton of money, or get yourself in a financial fix. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Click for more information on foreclosures in Hilton Head, SC.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
 - Edmund Burke

On Home Improvement...

• 

  Home Improvement Apps for iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry: Your Digital Toolbox

  Downloadable iPhone and Android apps offer ways to maintain, improve, and save money on your home. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Follow for more information about real estate in Hilton Head Island.

On Buying Your Home...

• 

  Keep Your Home Purchase on Track

  You’ve found your dream home. Make sure missteps don’t prevent a successful closing. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

For more information about to buy a home in Bluffton, SC, contact us here.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

Commitment

Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality. It is the words that speak boldly of your intentions, and the actions which speak louder than words.

It is making the time when there is none; coming through time after time after time, year after year, after year.

Commitment is the stuff character is made of; the power to change the face of things. It is the daily triumph of integrity over skepticism.

Erosion

Beach erosion on the west side of Daufuskie Island

On Selling Your Home...

• 

  5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale

  Working to get your home ship-shape for showings will increase its value and shorten your sales time. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

For more information on selling your home on Hilton Head Island, contact us here.

Restaurant Week Diner's Choice Winner

Congratulations Hudson's On The Docks!
Read more at:
http://blogs.islandpacket.com/41120

On Buying Your Home...

• 

  4 Tips to Determine How Much Mortgage You Can Afford

  By knowing how much mortgage you can handle, you can ensure that home ownership will fit in your budget. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

For more information on buying a home on Hilton Head Island, contact us here.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.

The South Carolina Yacht Club

I recently produced a podcast highlighting the South Carolina Yacht Club.  The SCYC, located on Hilton Head Island, is the focal point of the community of Windmill Harbour.  Members hail from ports as local as Jenkins Island, to all over the world. 
In the podcast, I focused on the interior design, and some of the amenities the members enjoy.

You can listen to show several ways:

• Directly on my website, www.hiltonheadhappenings.com (If you have trouble with embedded mp3 player here, you can also listen directly online at http://hiltonheadhappenings.podbean.com )
• Download in Itunes. Search under Podcasts, "Hilton Head Happenings"
• Directly from my Android App for Android phones. Just search "Hilton Head Happenings" in the market.

I am also working on a video covering the SCYC.  Some pictures of the SCYC can be seen below.

On Selling Your Home...

• 

  7 Tips for Staging Your Home

  Make your home warm and inviting to boost your home’s value and speed up the sale process. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

For more information on selling your home on Hilton Head Island, contact us here.

Great New Home Constructions On-Island!

This morning I toured some new homes on Hilton Head Island.  These new single family home constructions are priced beginning only in the $200k's to the $400k's!  Three and four bedroom plans available, located in a gated community on Hilton Head Island, with easy access to beaches and everything else available on and off island.  You would have a hard time finding a new construction, warranties included, this size home, for the price point offered.  With tidal salt marsh views, a community pool and low POA fees could make this a very highly desired residential community.  To find out more, contact me jbonham@richardsongrp.com, at the office at 843-757-7908.

On Buying Your Home...

• 

  7 Steps to Take Before You Buy a Home

  By doing your homework before you buy, you’ll feel more content about your new home. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

For more on home buying, visit us online.

The Strachan Mansion on Daufuskie Island

I took this picture of the Strachan Mansion yesterday while visiting Daufuskie Island. The 7,500 sq.ft. mansion was originally built in Georgia, and then relocated whole to Daufuskie Island in 1986. You can read more on the sign below.

Thoughts on Tuesdays

"There are only two kinds of music: good and bad."
 - Louis Armstrong

Tabby Architecture

Remains of Tabby Architecture can be seen below on Daufuskie Island.  In the distance, you can see the Intercoastal Waterway.  Daufuskie Island is accessible only by boat.  It has a couple of private communities, some individual residences, as well as some undeveloped land.  A picture of the sign at bottom explains more about Tabby Architecture.