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A Team of BOLD + BRIGHT Professionals...

Jon Franko
Realtor
Jon@LuminateTeam.com

Ryan DePoppe-TURNED-FADED-CMYK 1616px_ed

Ryan DePoppe
Realtor
Ryan@LuminateTeam.com

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US...

"I would give him ten out of five stars if I could."

"I worked with Jon on buying my first home. From day one he was so helpful and considerate of what I wanted and my budget. He was always a great advocate for whenever I needed to talk to my lenders and the builders, as I chose to go with a new construction home. I appreciate that Jon didn't mind breaking down the real estate lingo so that I could get a good understanding of the entire process. I would give him ten out of five stars if I could. If I'm ever in need of his services again, I will definitely be seeking him out."

— Kyree M.

FROM THE BLOG...

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Family walks to a blue house with palm trees. A "ROAD BLOCKED" sign is on the right. Sunny day and casual attire.

5 Roadblocks to Affordable Homeownership (And Ways to Move Past Them)

Front exterior of a single-family home at 185 Foxborough Road in Goose Creek, SC, sold in as-is condition. The home features a well-maintained lawn, neutral-colored siding, and a welcoming curb appeal, highlighting how professional presentation can make a difference—even in an as-is sale.

Can You Successfully Sell a Home “As-Is”? Yes—With the Right Strategy.

White house with black shutters, a porch, and steps leading to the front door. Green lawn and trees surround the setting on a sunny day.

What Does a Builder’s Home Warranty Cover?

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Selling as-is doesn’t necessarily have to mean settling for less. 🏡✨

We recently helped a seller at 185 Foxborough Road in Goose Creek close successfully—without the need to for traditional repairs.

Here’s how we made it work:
✔️ Set clear expectations up front to both buyers and seller
✔️ Priced for condition but with confidence on the price
✔️ Provided a pre-listing inspection to remove buyer doubts and surprises
✔️ Used professional photography + strong marketing to covey everything

The result? A confident buyer and a smooth, no-drama closing for the seller.

Thinking of selling as-is? Let’s discuss this strategy.

✨ Just Listed in Park Circle ✨
Opportunity knocks in Palmetto Gardens! A minute from Park Circle, this 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers a head start on a thoughtful renovation and plenty of room to add your own touch. With 793 square feet of living space—plus a spacious unfinished attic that could be finished as a loft—there’s potential room to grow.

This home presents a rare chance for buyers or investors to complete a renovation with many updates already underway. The kitchen has been nearly fully remodeled with new cabinets, flooring, appliances, and lighting. Additional upgrades include new ductwork, updated wiring, fresh sheetrock in several areas, recessed lighting, and more (full list available).

Out back, you’ll find a detached one-car garage with an attached laundry/utility room, a large deck, and a generous backyard shaded by a beautiful grand oak tree.

This home has already been pre-inspected and is being sold as-is—inspection report provided for transparency. There’s no HOA, and the location puts you close to everything North Charleston has to offer.

Whether you’re planning to restore it as a personal home or investment property, this one gives you a solid foundation to work from.

Located just minutes from downtown Charleston and the airport, Park Circle is one of the most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods in the area. It’s known for its mix of renovated bungalows, locally loved restaurants, craft breweries, and small businesses. At the heart of it all is a large circular park (yes, an actual circle), where you’ll find community events, markets, and plenty of space to relax or play.

Want to see it in person? Schedule your showing today.

DM or comment for more details. Or check our link-in-bio

Retirement is a new chapter—but does it come with a “For Sale” sign? 🏡🤔

Downsizing, relocating, or staying put? The right choice depends on your lifestyle, finances, and long-term goals. 📩💬

🔍 Considering selling? I can help you make an informed decision. DM or comment below and let’s discuss your options!

Just Listed – Classic Charm in Oak Knoll – No HOA

Looking for a well-built, thoughtfully maintained home near historic downtown Summerville? 103 Night Hawk Lane is a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom plus bonus room home offering 1,854 sq. ft. of comfortable living on a quiet cul-de-sac with no HOA.

This brick home features a raised front porch, a vaulted living room ceiling with exposed beams and a wood-burning fireplace, and a spacious dining room with French doors leading to a well-appointed kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a bright eat-in area. The primary suite is located on the main living level and includes a walk-in closet and an en-suite vanity.

The bonus room over the garage provides a versatile space for an office, playroom, or guest retreat, with access to a large walk-in attic offering excellent storage options. The huge enclosed patio (34x14 ft.) offers potential for a sunroom, and the fenced backyard provides privacy.

Located in the desirable Dorchester District 2 school zone, and close to historic downtown Summerville, this home is convenient to shopping, dining, and the Berlin G. Myers Parkway.

Want more info? See it in person? DM us, comment below, or check our link in bio.

Who’s ready for beach season already?🖐️☀️⛱️🌊

We don't often see much fall color here.🍁🍁🍁

NOW AVAILABLE—318 Simmons Ave, where historic Summerville charm meets modern living! 🌳✨ This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers everything from a spacious layout and unique finishes to a backyard perfect for entertaining. Nestled on a 0.26-acre corner lot with no HOA, this property is just minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown Summerville. Check out the highlights below and imagine making this exceptional house your home!

✨ 318 Simmons Ave Highlights ✨

📍 Prime Location >> Minutes from Summerville’s historic district, brimming with Southern charm and modern conveniences. Near boutique shops, cafes, seasonal festivals, and more!

🛏 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms >> Enjoy flexible spaces and a main-floor primary suite with French doors to the patio and a spa-like en-suite.

🌳 0.26-Acre Corner Lot >> NO HOA! Fully fenced with thoughtfully designed outdoor areas.

✨ Other Key Features:
✅ Front Porch Charm: Wood-grain concrete, haint blue ceiling, & a rope swing.
✅ Dual Driveways for extra parking
✅ Versatile Flex Room: Use as a dining room, office, studio, or playroom.
✅ Open Living Space: Perfect for entertaining with a reclaimed wood-trimmed kitchen.
✅ Unique Details: Plantation shutters (2024), whole-home vacuum system, and custom mounted TV cabinet.

🏊 Backyard Escape:
✅ Play pool with artificial turf
✅ Children’s play place
✅ Covered patio with privacy slats and haint blue ceiling
✅ Gas grill hook-up (Weber grill included!)

🚗 Detached 2-Car Garage:
✅ Equipped with a workbench and storage
✅ Bonus room above the garage (250 sq. ft. not included in main home measurement) with a heating & cooling unit

DM or comment for more details. Or check our link-in-bio.

🌦️ days are good days to write content….

Just listed: 5121 Hyde Park Village Lane in Park Circle!

Looking for a home that combines modern style with functional design? This elevated Craftsman-style gem, built in 2019, could be the one. Located in the sought-after Villages of Hyde Park, this home offers Shaw luxury laminate hardwood floors, an open-concept living area, and a spacious kitchen with granite countertops, subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances.

📍 Highlights:
✅ Ground Floor: One-car garage, entry hallway, and a large unfinished bonus room ready for customization—perfect for a home office, studio, or extra bedroom.
✅ Second Floor: Open-concept layout with a cozy living room, dining space, stylish kitchen, plus a bedroom and full bath.
✅ Third Floor: Primary suite with tray ceiling, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet that connects to the laundry room. Also features an additional bedroom with private bath.

Outdoor perks include a spacious back deck with mounted sail shades, a fenced backyard, and an extended parking pad. Positioned right across from a lush green space, it’s a fantastic spot for pets and outdoor fun.

Situated in vibrant North Charleston’s Park Circle, you’ll have easy access to downtown, parks, local shops, and diverse dining options. Experience the blend of historic charm and modern convenience in one of Charleston’s most walkable communities.

Ready to take a look? Drop a message to schedule a showing! Or check our link-in-bio. 📩

5 Window Terms You Should Know Before Your Next Upgrade 🪟

Windows are more than just a way to bring in light – they play a huge role in the look, feel, and functionality of your home. Whether you’re replacing windows or just brushing up on your home improvement knowledge, here are 5 key window terms to know:

1️⃣ Casing: The frame around your window. Wood adds a classic touch, vinyl is ultra-durable, and steel is the choice for an industrial vibe.

2️⃣ Panes: The glass itself. If you live near a golf course, or in a hurricane-prone area, consider impact-resistant panes for added protection.

3️⃣ Catch: This is the window’s lock. A small swap can give your windows a fresh look without major renovations.

4️⃣ Muntins: These “grids” divide the glass into smaller sections. The more muntins, the more vintage charm your windows will have!

5️⃣ Stool: The ledge at the base of your window. In some homes, it can even double as a handy little shelf!

Knowing these terms can help you make smart decisions when it’s time to upgrade or replace your windows. 🔨✨

DM or comment below for more info, or check our link-in-bio.
#WindowUpgrades #HomeImprovement #realestatetipsoftheday

🏡 🎃 October Monthly Home Maintenance Checklist

1️⃣ Check Your Foundation and Crawlspace:
Walk around your home (and under go it, if you have a crawlspace) to inspect for any cracks in the foundation. These small issues can turn into bigger problems when the winter rain and humidity set in. If you spot any cracks or moisture issues, take care of it right away.

2️⃣ Close Your Pool:
Even though you might enjoy a few more warm days, pool season is winding down. When you’re ready, clean, close, and cover your pool for the off-season, or call your pool maintenance company to handle it for you.

3️⃣ Turn Off Your Sprinklers:
While it doesn’t freeze often here, it’s still smart to shut down your sprinkler system for the cooler months to avoid any potential damage.

4️⃣ Inspect Your Sump Pump:
With rainy weather on the way, make sure your sump pump is working properly to manage any rising groundwater.

Stay ahead of maintenance and keep your home in top shape this season.

#HomeMaintenance #CoastalLiving #SouthernLiving #WinterPrep #RealEstateTips

AVAILABLE—Situated on a generous corner lot in a cul-de-sac, 101 Tyne Court is sure to impress any passerby. This beautifully maintained home, set on a meticulously landscaped lot, showcases an impressive array of features within its 2,340 square foot, mostly single-floor plan—3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and an upstairs bonus room.

Living in Crowfield Plantation means enjoying a variety of amenities, including the Crowfield Golf Club (membership required), a clubhouse, 40 scenic ponds, a lake, 4 swimming pools, 16 miles of hiking and biking trails, two tennis/pickleball courts, and RV/boat storage available for an additional cost.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a beautiful home in a beautiful subsection of The Hamlets of Crowfield! Schedule your private viewing today.

DM or comment for more details. Or check our link-in-bio.

#goosecreeksc #screalestate #crowfieldplantation #thehamlets #charlestonrealestate #goosecreekhomes

JUST LISTED—Are you seeking a home in the heart of Goose Creek with a serene pond view where you can unwind after a busy day? Look no further than 126 Brush Blvd in the Foxborough Townhomes community!

Located off St. James Ave, this charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath end-unit townhome offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience within its 1,300 square feet.

Foxborough Townhomes amenities include a pool and clubhouse, and its prime location off St. James Ave provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Don’t miss the rare opportunity to own an end-unit townhome on a pond lot in the heart of Goose Creek! Schedule your private viewing today.

DM or comment for more details. Or check our link-in-bio.

#goosecreekhomes #goosecreekrealestate #movetosouthcarolina #southcarolinahomes #southcarolinaliving

Home Seller Myth #1: Does Selling “As-Is” Really Save You Time and Money?

Thinking about selling your home “as-is” because “the next owner will want to do their own thing anyway”? 🤔
While that sounds convenient, most buyers don’t see it that way. Here’s why:

💰 Buyers want move-in ready homes. With high home prices and interest rates, many don’t have the extra budget to make repairs or updates right away.

💡 Pricing matters. Selling as-is usually means pricing your home lower than if you made the repairs upfront—and often, that discount is bigger than the actual cost to fix things.

⏳ Longer time to sell. Fewer buyers are financially prepared to take on a fixer-upper, meaning your home may sit on the market longer.

🛠️ Fixing things can boost value. Even small repairs can increase your home’s appeal and lead to higher offers.
Yes, there are situations where selling as-is makes sense. Just know that it might not save you as much time or money as you think!

Questions? Comment below or DM us.

#homesellingtips #sellingasis #realestatemyths #moveinready #homeseller #homesellingmyths #realestatetruths

“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”

This expression appears in its modern form in James Howell’s 1659 Proverbs in English, Italian, French and Spanish. (And, of course, The Shining.)

#charlestonsc #chs

Looking to live in the well-established and charming neighborhood of Longpoint in Mount Pleasant? Discover the potential and beauty of 368 Mount Royall Drive.

This well-built two-story traditional home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a beautiful backyard perfect for entertaining. Enjoy the elegant Brazilian Walnut floors, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a versatile front room that adapts to your needs. The open-concept kitchen is equipped with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a bay window breakfast nook.

Upstairs, you’ll find the primary suite with a tray ceiling, walk-in closet, and ensuite bathroom featuring a garden tub and dual sinks. The large back deck and patio offer the perfect setting for summer barbecues, and the fenced-in yard provides privacy and security.

Enjoy Longpoint’s fantastic amenities, including a pool, tennis/pickleball courts, and a playground. Plus, you’ll be part of an excellent school district!

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of Longpoint living. Schedule your showing today!

DM or comment for more details. Or Link in bio.

#MountPleasantLiving #MountPleasantSC #MountPleasantRealEstate

JUST LISTED – Are you looking for a newer home on the historic Charleston peninsula? 58 Dereef Court is situated in the pocket neighborhood of Morris Square, a newer development located within the Elliotborough/Cannonborough area on the Charleston peninsula.

With a style reminiscent of a Charleston single, this 2014-built, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers 3 levels of stylish, functional, and low-maintenance living—perfect for homeowners seeking ease and convenience. The home also includes the added bonus of a private 2-car parking pad alongside it.

Living in Morris Square places you in close proximity to three beautiful parks: Shiloh Park, Dereef Park, and Simonton Park—giving you green spaces to enjoy outdoor activities.

The overall location makes this home a fantastic opportunity for students, medical professionals, investors, or anyone looking to be close to the Medical University of South Carolina, the VA Hospital, or the College of Charleston. From here, you can easily experience all that the historic Charleston peninsula has to offer, from its rich history to its popular downtown, while enjoying the serenity of a tucked-away neighborhood.

DM us for info or check our link in bio.💡
#charlestonrealestate #historiccharleston #downtowncharleston #charlestonhomes

Shooting this twilight was a bit of a challenge. The sky was amazing but the on-the-ground conditions were not so much. The houses are very close together--on the sides and in front. Basically no one has a front yard, just a one way driveway that runs through it. We'll see how it looks in post... @ryan.depoppe

💡 Light Bulb Education 101

Choosing the right light bulb can make all the difference in how your home looks and feels! 🏠✨ Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the world of light bulbs:

🔧 Bulb Construction:
1️⃣ Incandescent: The classic choice for many lamps, these bulbs work with standard dimmer switches and come in various shapes. They typically last up to 2,000 hours.
2️⃣ LED: The most energy-efficient option available today! These “light-emitting diodes” can last up to 50,000 hours and come in a wide range of color temperatures.

🧩 Bulb Bases:
1️⃣ E26: The medium, or standard, base. Perfect for most household lighting fixtures.
2️⃣ E12: The candelabra base, ideal for smaller fixtures like chandeliers.

🎨 Light Color:
1️⃣ Warm White (2600K - 3000K): The standard color of incandescent bulbs, offering a cozy, soft glow. Perfect for creating a warm atmosphere in your living spaces.
2️⃣ Cool White (3000K - 5000K): Bright and bluish white, ideal for task lighting or kitchens where you need clear visibility.

👉 Pro Tip: The color temperature of your bulbs is measured on the Kelvin scale. Lower temperatures bring warmer, yellower light, while higher temperatures provide cooler, brighter light. For a soft, inviting glow, we love a Warm White color temperature around 2700K.

Don’t forget to save this post for future reference!

#homelighting #lightingtips #realestatetips #lightbulbguide #homedecor

NOW AVAILABLE—Situated on a generous corner lot in a cul-de-sac, 101 Tyne Court is sure to impress any passerby. This beautifully maintained home, set on a meticulously landscaped lot, showcases an impressive array of features within its 2,340 square foot, mostly single-floor plan—3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and an upstairs bonus room.

Living in Crowfield Plantation means enjoying a variety of amenities, including the Crowfield Golf Club (membership required), a clubhouse, 40 scenic ponds, a lake, 4 swimming pools, 16 miles of hiking and biking trails, two tennis/pickleball courts, and RV/boat storage available for an additional cost.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a beautiful home in a beautiful subsection of The Hamlets of Crowfield! Schedule your private viewing today.

DM or comment for more details. Or check our link-in-bio.

#goosecreek #goosecreekhomes #crowfieldplantation #goosecreekrealtor

According to a study conducted by Zillow…

Yes, by almost $6,500.

In a study conducted by Zillow, a leading real estate marketplace, it revealed that homes with black front doors could sell for up to $6,449 more than similar homes with doors of other colors. This dramatic difference in perceived value highlights the power of a simple, strategic paint choice.

Curb appeal plays a crucial role in how potential buyers perceive a property. The front door is one of the first elements they see, and the color black can evoke feelings of luxury, security, and style. According to design experts, a black front door not only enhances the visual appeal but also suggests that the home is well-maintained and potentially more valuable.

Want to know more? Check out our blog post on the topic. DM for link or check our link-in-bio.

#realestatetips #homeselling #charlestonrealestate #blackfrontdoor #homevalue

NOW AVAILABLE—Do you want the benefits of a new home without the wait for it to be built? Are you looking for the convenience of a single-story home to avoid trudging up long staircases? Do you want to live in a neighborhood with resort-style amenities? If so, don’t miss the opportunity at 133 Ivory Shadow Road.

Located in the Pine Hills section of Cane Bay Plantation, this recently built home on a spacious pond-view lot is ready to go!

Built by DR Horton in 2024, the Helena floor plan is a single-story layout that offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this 1,482-square-foot residence provides a thoughtfully designed layout that maximizes both space and functionality.

Living in Pine Hills comes with an array of resort-style amenities, including 3 stunning pools, 2-story waterslide, splash pad, grilling area, large pavilion, firepit, playground, and clubhouse. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, enjoying a swim, or gathering with friends and family, this community offers something for everyone. The nearby YMCA is the largest on the East Coast.

DM or comment for more details. 😎 Or link-in-bio.

#summerville #canebay #summervillerealestate #homeforsale

How is everyone fairing so far during Tropical Storm Debby?

#tropicalstormdebby #tropicalstormdebbie #southcarolina #lowcountry

$83,385.00

This is the projected potential growth in household wealth over the next 5 years based solely on increased home equity if you purchased a $400K home in January 2024.

Each quarter, Fannie Mae releases the Home Price Expectations Survey. It asks over one hundred economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists what they forecast for home prices over the next five years. In the latest release, experts are projecting home prices will continue to rise through at least 2028.

#homeprices #buyingahome #projectedgrowth #charlestonrealestate

What are the benefits of using 360º photography for home buyers and sellers?

360° photography has the ability to add that “little bit extra” to the presentation of a home by elevating the standard two dimensional photography used to sell homes.

While professional photography can beautifully showcase a home, and is absolutely necessary to the sales process, it can often be difficult to truly “feel” the spaces shown. This is where 360º degree photography is used to great effect—it shows the context of the space.

Often put into a “virtual tour” format, 360º degree photography allows the viewer to move through the home space by space. The viewer can turn around and see the view from all angles.

For homebuyers, it allows them to virtually step into a home from anywhere in the world. They can tour the home through high-quality, panoramic photos that let them explore every space and better understand the layout and features. It offers a transparent and honest view of the property, building trust and reducing uncertainty.

For home sellers, it helps your home stand out from competing listings. 360° photos attract more attention and generate greater interest from potential buyers—while also providing a comprehensive view that helps serious buyers make quicker and more confident decisions, which could potentially speed up the sales process.

Questions? Want to see how we utilize 360º photography/virtual tours for our listings? Comment “360” below or send us a DM.

Monthly Home Organization, May 2024

1. 📚 Declutter & organize your recipes.
2. 🗂️ Setup or update your recipe binder.
3. 🧹 Declutter & organize the garage or garden shed.
4. 📝 Make a list of summer outdoor home improvement projects.
5. 📅 Schedule summer appointments like school or camp physicals and dentist visits.
6. 🎁 Get or make teacher gifts.

#HomeOrganization #Declutter #SummerPrep #HomeImprovement #RealEstateTips

Multi-generational housing. Let’s discuss.

A multi-generational home is just that—a home made up of many generations of people. It could be great-grandparents, grandparents, kids, and grandkids—all living together in one home.

So, why do people consider this form of housing strategy?

NAR recently conducted a study to explore the top reasons people purchased a multi-generational home. Here’s what the respondents said:

👵 27% cited the Health and Caretaking of Aging Parents
💰 22% cited the Overall Cost Savings
👨‍👩‍👦 19% cited they Wanted to Spend More Time with their Aging Parents
🏠 11% cited they Wanted a Larger Home that Multiple Incomes Could Afford Together

And when you think about it, all of these factors make sense.

The ever-rising cost of healthcare…
The overall cost savings when you consolidate expenses…
The ability to spend more time together and make lasting memories…
And the ability to combine incomes to purchase something bigger and nicer than you could afford on your own.

Whatever your reasons, if this strategy is something you’d like to explore in the Charleston area—reach out.

#MultiGenerationalLiving #Homeownership #CharlestonRealEstate #FamilyLiving #Realtor #HomeBuying #CostSavings #FamilyTime

May 2024 Monthly Home Maintenance 🏡

Keep your home in top shape with these essential tasks:

1️⃣ Wash Your House: Scrub away winter grime! Cover plants, close windows, and give your home a good rinse. For a thorough clean, consider hiring a pro for a soft wash.

2️⃣ Paint the Exterior: Check for peeling or chipping paint. Touch-up or apply a fresh coat. Schedule professionals now to complete the job by summer’s end.

3️⃣ Inspect and Refinish the Deck: Sweep away debris, tighten loose boards, and check if your deck needs resealing. Sprinkle water on the boards—if it soaks in, it’s time to reseal.

Keep your home looking its best all summer long and your equity growing! 🌞🛠️ #HomeMaintenance #RealEstateTips #SummerReady

Using decorative pillows in your bedroom isn’t really about comfort—it’s about presentation and style! Choosing the right sizes and arranging them properly can elevate the look and feel of your bed and bedroom. 🛏️

Swipe left to see some of our pillow arrangement ideas. And then let us know how you arrange yours pillows.

#BedroomDecor #HomeStyling #DecorativePillows #HomeDecorTips

Why Do Home Sellers Sell In A Volatile Housing Market?

In a tough economy and volatile housing market, people often wonder why home sellers sell their homes.

Why would they give up a beautiful home, likely with a lower mortgage payment and interest rate, to move elsewhere?

In other words, potential buyers are concerned, “What’s wrong with the home?”

And in 99% of cases, the answer is: “Nothing at all.”

Sellers have various personal and compelling reasons for moving—reasons that remain consistent regardless of market conditions. Here’s a quick rundown of the top 5 reasons why people sell their homes:

1️⃣ Relocation: Whether it’s for a dream job, family reasons, or just a change of scenery, people move on.

2️⃣ Changes in Relationship Status: Life events such as marriages, divorces, or breakups often necessitate a new living situation.

3️⃣ Upgrading: Sometimes, it’s all about needing more space or simply desiring a better location or a dream home.

4️⃣ Downsizing: As lifestyles and family dynamics change, so does the need for space.

5️⃣ Health Concerns: Health and mobility issues can lead individuals to seek homes that better suit their needs.

Remember, the decision to sell is often driven by circumstances that outweigh economic or market considerations. Always work with a professional who can guide you through the buying process and help you steer clear of any potential issues.

#RealEstate #HousingMarket #HomeSelling #HomeBuying #Charleston #MountPleasant #Summerville

When I shot this photo a couple of years ago I knew nothing of the mural. Out of curiosity I looked it up…

The Charleston Hat Man mural is a well-known landmark here in Charleston. The large mural is a man made up of a variety of hats. The mural is painted on the side of a building on the corner of Broad and Church Streets.

The mural was painted in the late 1800s to advertise the Plenge Haberdashery, which was a former occupant of the building. It’s been touched up several times over the years, but has remained largely unchanged since it was first painted.

The exact identity of the artist who painted the Charleston Hat Man mural seems to be unknown. However, it is believed to have been painted by Beauregard Betancourt, who was a noted cartoonist and illustrator. Betancourt worked at the Plenge Haberdashery for many years, and he is believed to have painted the mural as a way to promote the business.

As you could expect, the mural has become a popular tourist attraction in Charleston. It is a unique piece of art, and a reminder of the city’s rich history.

Some interesting facts about the Charleston Hat Man:

👑 The mural is made up of 16 hats of 12 different styles.

🎩 The hats are supposed to represent hats worn by Union and Confederate soldiers.

👒 The ears are particularly interesting; one is a cap, and the other appears to be a different hat with a tassel.

🧢 The Charleston Hat Man has been featured in several movies and television shows, including The Notebook and The Tourist.

It’s Spring and the real estate market in Charleston is very active. But even in a seller’s market, strategic pricing is still key to your overall success.

Overpricing can cool down interest and prolong your sale, possibly costing you more in the long run. Why? Home buyers are unwilling to overpay for something—especially now—with high selling prices and higher interest rates. Set the price right up front, and you might just ignite a bidding war, which could lead to better terms and even a higher sale price. 🔥📈

Curious to know the perfect price for your home? Let’s connect. Comment “Home Value” below or DM me for a consultation—no pressure or obligation. Just a talk.

#RealEstateTips #SpringSellingSeason #HomePricing #SellSmart #MarketValue #BiddingWarReady

It’s time for Spring cleaning, and your wardrobe is no exception…

Winter is behind us, and it’s time to freshen up your closet for the spring and summer seasons. (Gotta make some room for those Derby hats! 🏇👒🌸)

Here are 6 simple steps to help you effectively purge your wardrobe:

1️⃣ Set Aside Time: Dedicate a few hours to thoroughly go through your clothes without rushing.
2️⃣ Categorize Your Items: Organize your clothes into categories like tops, pants, and accessories to easily decide what stays and what goes.
3️⃣ Be Honest: If you don’t love it, wear it, or feel confident in it, it’s time to let it go.
4️⃣ Check Quality and Condition: Say goodbye to any items that are stained, torn, or worn out.
5️⃣ Decide on Disposal: Choose to donate, sell, or recycle the items you’re parting with.
6️⃣ Assess Your Needs: Review what’s left and note what you need to buy to round out your wardrobe for the new season.

Want more? Comment “CLOSET” below or DM us.

#ClosetPurge #SpringCleaning #WardrobeRefresh

In today’s world, the concept of work has dramatically shifted, with more individuals and businesses embracing the flexibility of working from home. This change has not only redefined our work-life balance but also the physical spaces within our homes. A well-organized and functional at-home workstation has become a non-negotiable feature for many homeowners and home buyers. So whether you’re a remote worker or staging a home to sell, let’s guide you through setting up an efficient, stylish home office that maximizes your productivity or appeals to potential home buyers.

Swipe left to unlock our top tips for creating a productive and inviting home office, no matter the size of your space. And comment your tips below!👇

#HomeOfficeIdeas #WorkFromHomeLife #SpaceSavingSolutions

Is Spring 2024 the home buying and selling season?

We’re often asked whether spring is the best season to buy and sell homes in the Charleston area.

Spring has traditionally been considered the prime season for buying and selling homes in many real estate markets. There can be several factors at play, including:

☀️Better Weather: The warmer weather and longer days make it more appealing for buyers to visit homes and for sellers to showcase their properties in the best light.

💵Tax Refunds: Some buyers use their tax refunds toward down payments, which they receive in the spring.

🚌Families Timing with School Year: Many families prefer to move during the summer to avoid disrupting the school year, making spring an ideal time to purchase a home and move in by summer.

🌼Improved Curb Appeal: Homes often look their best in spring, with blooming flowers and a green landscape, which can improve curb appeal and attract more buyers.

However, with the increased demand we’ve seen the last few years, the home buying and selling “seasons” are less of a factor. Even though the real estate market can vary significantly by region and is influenced by economic conditions, interest rates, and other factors that might make any season a good time to buy or sell, depending on the circumstances. People continue to buy and sell homes all year long. In the end, it’s about what’s best for your situation.

As always, it’s often best to start a conversation with your real estate professional. We can help you assess your goals and situation and provide you with the most current and relevant advice tailored to your specific location and situation. Comment below or DM us to get the conversation started.

#homebuying #homeselling #homeownership

Why is real estate always one of the best investments you can make? Whether it’s owning your own home or investing in real estate, there are distinct advantages.

🏡 Here are a few benefits of OWNING your own home:
1️⃣ Building Equity - Every mortgage payment is like depositing money into a savings account, increasing your home’s equity and your net worth over time.
2️⃣ Predictable Costs - Unlike rent, a fixed-rate mortgage means your monthly payments remain steady, making financial planning easier.
3️⃣ Appreciation Potential - Over time, the value of your home is likely to increase, offering a significant return on your investment when you decide to sell.
4️⃣ Tax Advantages - Homeowners can benefit from tax deductions, including mortgage interest and property taxes, reducing your overall tax burden.

📈 Why is real estate the top choice for INVESTING? Here is just a few reasons:
1️⃣ Tangible Asset - Real estate gives you something physical and lasting, a real piece of the world that can appreciate in value over time.
2️⃣ Cash Flow - With rental properties, you can generate a steady stream of income that often exceeds your expenses, providing financial stability and passive income.
3️⃣ Appreciation - Historically, real estate values have grown, making it a fantastic way to build wealth over the long term.
4️⃣ Tax Benefits - From deductions on mortgage interest to depreciation, real estate can offer significant tax advantages, putting more money back in your pocket.
5️⃣ Inflation Hedge - Real estate often acts as an effective hedge against inflation. As living costs rise, so do rental rates and property values, protecting your purchasing power.
6️⃣ Leverage - Real estate allows for the use of leverage, meaning you can control a large asset and reap its benefits for a fraction of the total cost.

Real estate continues to be the top choice for investing. If you want to know more, comment below or DM us.📈
#homeownership #realestateinvesting #charlestonsc

Yes, pollen season is here in Charleston–just in time for Spring cleaning. 🌸🌺🌼

🏡✨If you’re struggling to keep your home sparkling clean amidst the pollen, day-to-day life, and a hectic schedule–check out our latest blog post giving you 27 practical cleaning tactics for busy households. From quick tidying hacks to time-saving strategies, we’ve got you covered. 🧼🌟

Comment below, DM us, or check the link in bio.

#StressFreeCleaning #HomeCleaningHacks #BusyLifeSolutions

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Charleston, SC 29401

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LUMINATE

REAL ESTATE

A creative real estate services boutique...

Search ALL of the Charleston MLS here!

Get direct access to the MLS. See exactly what you want, instantly.

HISTORIC SUMMERVILLE

BEHIND THE SCENES

Jon Franko Realtor Jon@LuminateTeam.com

Ryan DePoppe Realtor Ryan@LuminateTeam.com

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US...

"I would give him ten out of five stars if I could."

FROM THE BLOG...

5 Roadblocks to Affordable Homeownership (And Ways to Move Past Them)

Can You Successfully Sell a Home “As-Is”? Yes—With the Right Strategy.

What Does a Builder’s Home Warranty Cover?

Follow Us!

@LuminateRealEstate

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Follow us on Instagram

CONNECT WITH US

Jon Franko

Ryan DePoppe

Let's connect!

Don't worry, we hate spam too.

Jon Franko
Realtor
Jon@LuminateTeam.com

Ryan DePoppe
Realtor
Ryan@LuminateTeam.com