Are you in search of a vibrant and welcoming community in Fort Mill, South Carolina, where you can truly live the good life? Look no further than Masons Bend, a picturesque neighborhood that not only offers beautiful homes but also a wide range of amenities designed to enhance your quality of life. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the fantastic amenities that make Masons Bend an ideal place to call home.

1. Resort-Style Pools:

While South Carolina enjoys its fair share of warmth, Masons Bend offers a refreshing solution for residents seeking relief from the sunny days. Embrace the luxurious resort-style pools that make this neighborhood a haven for relaxation and recreation. Picture yourself taking a refreshing dip, basking in the sun, or enjoying a leisurely poolside read – all within the comfort of your own community. These inviting pools are just one of the many ways Masons Bend enhances your lifestyle, ensuring you can fully enjoy the year-round sunshine.

2. State-of-the-Art Fitness Centers:

Staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a breeze in Masons Bend. The community boasts state-of-the-art fitness centers equipped with the latest exercise machines and free weights. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just looking to start a new routine, you'll have everything you need right at your doorstep.

3. Scenic Trails and Parks:

For those who appreciate the great outdoors, Masons Bend offers an abundance of scenic trails and parks. Enjoy leisurely walks, jogging, or biking along beautifully landscaped paths, taking in the natural beauty of the community. It's a great way to stay active and connect with nature without venturing far from home.

4. Clubhouses and Social Spaces:

Masons Bend encourages a sense of community, and its well-appointed clubhouses and social spaces provide the perfect venues for residents to come together. Whether you're hosting a private event, joining a club, or just looking for a place to socialize with neighbors, these spaces are versatile and welcoming.

5. Playground and Recreation Areas:

Families with children will appreciate the playgrounds and recreation areas scattered throughout Masons Bend. Kids can safely run, play, and make new friends while parents relax nearby. It's an excellent way to ensure that everyone in the family enjoys a fulfilling lifestyle.

6. Community Events:

One of the hallmarks of Masons Bend is its sense of community. Regularly organized events and activities bring neighbors together, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Whether it's a neighborhood BBQ, movie night, or holiday celebration, there's always something happening in Masons Bend.

7. Dog-Friendly Amenities:

Don't forget about your furry family members! Masons Bend is a pet-friendly community with amenities like dog parks and walking trails, ensuring that your four-legged friends are as happy and active as you are.

In conclusion, Masons Bend in Fort Mill, South Carolina, offers a plethora of amenities that truly allow residents to live the good life. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation, fitness, or a strong sense of community, this neighborhood has it all. Contact The Linda Hall Team of Century 21 First Choice if you'd like to experience the exceptional lifestyle that Masons Bend has to offer and discover why so many are proud to call it home.

In the heart of Fort Mill, South Carolina, there exists a beacon of hope and compassion known as the Fort Mill Care Center. This remarkable local nonprofit organization has been quietly changing lives and making a profound impact on the community for years. With a steadfast commitment to alleviating hunger, providing essential services, and fostering a sense of belonging, the Fort Mill Care Center has become an invaluable lifeline for many in need. In this blog, we shine a spotlight on this remarkable nonprofit, delving into its history, mission, and the incredible work it does to uplift the residents of Fort Mill and beyond. 

The Fort Mill Care Center stands as a shining example of community-driven compassion and support.

Established in 1987 by the Fort Mill Ministerial Association, this non-profit organization is a testament to the power of volunteerism, with a dedicated team of non-paid volunteers at its core. Their mission revolves around providing essential aid to families facing difficult circumstances within the Fort Mill community. While their primary focus is on addressing basic needs like food, personal hygiene items, and household cleaning supplies, the Care Center's commitment extends further, encompassing assistance with utilities, prescriptions, and even emergency dental care for residents of Fort Mill and Tega Cay, South Carolina. Their funding comes from the generosity of individuals, businesses, churches, youth groups, and community organizations, underscoring the collective effort to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. The Fort Mill Care Center's unwavering dedication to its mission makes it an indispensable pillar of support within its community.

Partners of The Fort Mill Care Center

The Fort Mill Care Center's commitment to aiding those in need extends beyond its own services. This compassionate organization collaborates with various agencies and partners to create a comprehensive network of support for the Fort Mill community. Some of the key agencies they work with include:

1. Carolina Community Actions: This agency offers a wide range of services, including assistance with utilities, rent, GED programs, childcare support, tuition aid, and weatherization to help individuals and families improve their circumstances.

2. Community Cafe: Providing free meals to those facing food insecurity, the Community Cafe ensures that no one in the community has to go hungry.

3. Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen: Offering daily meals, this soup kitchen plays a crucial role in providing sustenance to those in need, addressing the immediate challenge of hunger.

4. Flint Hill Baptist Church: Operating a clothing closet, this agency helps individuals and families access essential clothing items, ensuring that everyone has adequate attire.

5. Fort Mill Church of God: With a food pantry, this organization contributes to the fight against hunger by supplying essential groceries to those who require assistance.

6. Fort Mill is Family: This agency caters to general needs, providing support and resources to families facing various challenges.

7. Salvation Army: With a multifaceted approach, the Salvation Army offers a food pantry, women's shelter, emergency assistance, and clothing support, addressing a wide range of needs within the community.

8. YC Council on Aging: This agency specializes in in-home services such as Meals on Wheels, homemaker assistance, and transportation, offering critical support to seniors and disabled individuals who may require additional help to maintain their independence.

9.  
10. Through these collaborative efforts with partner agencies, the Fort Mill Care Center ensures that individuals and families facing difficulties have access to a comprehensive range of services and resources, making a profound and positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT TO SHARE & HOW YOU CAN HELP

To celebrate the Town of Fort Mill's 150th Anniversary, the community is invited to participate in a special outreach initiative aimed at assisting the Fort Mill Care Center. As part of this endeavor, the Town will be gathering various essential items to benefit the Fort Mill Care Center, including shampoo, deodorant, lotion, body wash, wipes, toilet paper, dish soap, disinfecting wipes, all-purpose cleaner, and paper towels. Residents are encouraged to drop off these items in the Town Hall lobby located at 200 Tom Hall St. from November 13 to November 30, 2023. Town Hall's operating hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.

This initiative is a heartfelt gesture to mark the 150th Anniversary, demonstrating the Town's commitment to making a positive impact on the community by supporting a local charity. The Town has teamed up with the Fort Mill Care Center to assist them in replenishing crucial supplies that tend to run low during this season.

It's important to note that the Fort Mill Care Center will still be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Meal Food Drive alongside this project. For more comprehensive information about their services and ongoing initiatives, please visit www.fortmillcarecenter.org.

The Linda Hall Team of Century 21 First Choice proudly supports The Fort Mill Care Center because we believe in the power of community and the importance of lending a helping hand to our neighbors in need. Fort Mill is not just a place where we do business; it's our home, and we are deeply invested in its well-being. The Fort Mill Care Center's dedication to providing essential support and resources aligns perfectly with our commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community. By supporting this remarkable organization, we are not only making a difference in the lives of our fellow residents but also fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility that defines the very essence of Fort Mill. Together, we can create a brighter future for all, and The Linda Hall Team is honored to play a part in that journey.

Let's delve into York County's real estate scene and gain access to valuable insights for October 2023. Whether you're in the market to purchase or sell or simply curious about real estate trends, get ready to acquire knowledge, find inspiration, and feel empowered as we unveil the highlights of York County's Real Estate Market for October 2023.

New Listings

To kick off our analysis, let's explore the assortment of fresh properties that made their debut in the market during October. In October 2021, the market witnessed the introduction of 464 new listings. Nonetheless, in 2022, there was a notable 26.3 percent decline in the property count, leaving only 342 listings on the market. Fast-forward to the current year, 2023, and the market has seen an additional decrease of 6.4 percent compared to the previous year, resulting in a total of 320 properties. Clearly, there has been a significant reduction in the availability of homes.

Homes for Sale

Now, let's take a closer look by examining the supply of homes available for purchase. In 2021, there were 355 homes listed for sale. In 2022, the inventory of homes for sale surged by 62.5 percent, reaching a total of 577 homes on the market. However, this year, in October, there was a decline of 14.2 percent, resulting in 495 homes available for sale. This figure is lower than the previous year but higher than the 2021 inventory.

Pending Sales

Shifting our focus to pending sales, let's examine the statistics from October 2021. In 2021, there were 425 pending sales, but in the subsequent year, we observed a notable decrease of 36.0 percent, bringing the number down to 272 pending sales. This year, we experienced a minor decline of 3.7 percent, resulting in 262 pending sales.

Median Days on Market

Now, shifting our focus to the median days on the market in October, let's begin with the year 2021, when properties had an average listing duration of just 4 days. Transitioning to 2022, there was a substantial surge of 300 percent, leading to properties spending an average of 16 days on the market. However, in 2023, we observed a decrease of 18.8 percent, bringing the median listing duration down to 13 days.

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Now, turning our attention to the Months Supply of Homes for Sale, let's examine the figures from October 2021. Back in 2021, the supply was quite low, at just 0.9 months. However, in 2022, the supply increased significantly by 88.9 percent, reaching 1.7 months. In 2023, there was a further uptick of 5.9 percent, bringing it to 1.8 months. This indicates that if no new homes were to be added to the market, it would take approximately 1.8 months to sell the current available inventory.

Median Showings to Pending

Now, let's delve into the analysis of the median showings to pending ratio. In October 2021, it took a median of 9 showings to generate a pending sale. Moving to 2022 and 2023, there was no change compared to 2021, remaining with 9 showings to pending for both years.  

We hope you’ve found our comprehensive analysis of the York County real estate market insightful. If you’re considering selling your home this year, determining the right pricing strategy is crucial, and our team is on hand to offer our wealth of knowledge and assistance. Feel free to reach out to The Linda Hall Team at Century 21 First Choice. Let’s collaborate to realize your property aspirations for 2023!

Here are annual activities that local York County residents look forward to all year long. Here are just 10 of them that will get you into the York County Holiday Spirit!

(Please double-check the dates and times, as they can change. Also, some of the activities didn't have dates for this year yet, but we went on last year's scheduling updating to this year's calendar. That's why we ask you to double-check using the provided links. Thank you!)

1. Ice Skating – Yes, we do ice skating here in South Carolina, and here is one of the best places to carry out that fun holiday activity!

Founders Holiday Ice Rink – Opening day is mid-November. Check the website. We were told they were finalizing the details. Located in the heart of Rock Hill's Old Town across from Fountain Park. 

2. Holiday Shopping Events – Of course, shopping local is how we prefer to go because supporting our local businesses is very important! Here are a couple of local shopping events to get you into the spirit.

3rd Annual South Carolina Christmas Show - The show takes place in historic Downtown York, Sc. Enjoy the Christmas holiday season with great shopping with a wide variety of vendors, live music, food trucks, and more! Thursday, November 9th through Sunday, November 12th - 10 am to 8 pm. Further info - CLICK HERE

Winter Artisan Market – Held Saturday, December 2nd, featuring local artists and vendors at Anne Springs Close Greenway – 2573 Lake Haigler Drive, Fort Mill, SC. Further info – CLICK HERE

HSYC Christmas Store - Shop and support a great cause. This store is run by the Humane Society of York County. It's located in downtown Fort Mill at 232 Main Street and is open for the season.  Further info - CLICK HERE

3. Fort Mill Christmas Village and Lighting of the Tree – An evening of holiday sights and sounds as Fort Mill kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of the town's 50-foot Christmas tree, as well as entertainment from a handbell choir, school choirs, and dance teams. This is scheduled to take place on Thursday, November 30th, from 5 PM to 8:00 PM in Downtown Fort Mill. Further info – CLICK HERE

4. Rock Hill Christmas Parade – Come out to downtown Rock Hill and enjoy a Rock Hill Christmas Parade! The parade is on Friday, December 1st, and begins at 6:30 PM. Further info – CLICK HERE

5. Fort Mill Christmas Parade – This is a much beloved annual event that showcases a collection of bands, floats, dancing, go-carts, singing, and more! Bound to put anyone into the holiday spirit. This year it is scheduled for Saturday, December 2nd, at 11 am!  – CLICK HERE

6. Clover Christmas Parade – Join Santa and Mrs. Claus on Sunday, December 3rd, from 3 PM to 4 PM for the 53rd Annual Clover Christmas Parade in downtown Clover. Further info – CLICK HERE

7. Fort Mill’s Santa Trolley – Santa is scheduled to make an appearance in various neighborhoods throughout Fort Mill on Saturday, December 9th! Get the kiddos ready. Follow their Facebook page for further info – CLICK HERE

8. Lake Wylie Holiday Boat Parade – The annual Lights on the Lake Boat Parade will take place on Saturday, December 16th, starting at 5 PM. Further info – CLICK HERE

9. Fort Mill Christmas Cookie Crawl – Take your family to downtown Fort Mill to visit various businesses, where they will be giving away free pre-packaged Christmas cookies on Saturday, December 16th, from 10 AM to 2 PM. CHECK THE DATE on the Fort Mill Website. The date wasn't shown upon publication of this blog – CLICK HERE

10. Christmasville in Rock Hill – The annual Christmasville will take place starting on Thursday, November 30th and running through to Sunday, December 3rd. We suggest you check out their website to keep up with all the events. Further info – CLICK HERE

Additional add-ons we found -

Tega Cay's Christmas Tree Lighting - The City's 2023 Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Thursday, December 7th, 2023, from 5:30 PM-9:30 PM at the Philip T Glennon Center & Tega Cay Golf Course. Tega Cay's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting includes a Holiday Sip-N-Shop, choir performances, Christmas Carols, letter-writing stations to the North Pole, complimentary cookies and hot Chocolate, and Photos with Santa! Come join the City Council as they light the City's Christmas Tree.  

Indian Land Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting - This wonderful event will be held on December 9th, 2023, from 4 pm to 8 pm. It starts off with the Indian Land Christmas Parade at 4 pm, followed by the tree lighting immediately following at 5:30 pm. This year's theme is "Christmas in Toyland!"

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of local holiday events in York County! Stay tuned to The Linda Hall Team’s blog for more local activities, and sign up for our newsletter, which is packed full of local events, restaurant openings, and local news - SIGN UP HERE. 

The Linda Hall Team put together a list in November of 2021 and 2022 of local Thanksgiving dining and take-home options. It was so popular we thought we would update it for 2023. So here's an UPDATED 2023 list of the restaurants we've seen that are offering dining and take-home options. 

THE PUMP HOUSE - WAITING FOR A RESPONSE TO CONFIRM THIS

Enjoy a 3-course pre-fixe holiday menu at the Pump House in Rock Hill. 803-329-8888

IMPROPER PIG - CONFIRMED 2023

The Improper Pig is offering a Thanksgiving Dinner, and the advice given is to visit their website for further details or to follow them on Facebook. 

FISH MARKET BAR AND GRILL - CONFIRMED 2023

Salmeri's Italian Kitchen in Fort Mill and The Flipside Cafe in Old Town, Rock Hill, have announced on Facebook that they will be selling Thanksgiving Heat & Serve Sides, which will be available for pick up only on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. They would like orders placed no later than Saturday, November 18th. CLICK HERE FOR THEIR ANNOUNCEMENT ON FACEBOOK

So, there are some LOCAL Thanksgiving dining and take-home options for you. If you have more to add, please let us know! The Linda Hall Team is always looking to support local businesses!!

As Fall revisits York County, South Carolina, and the air becomes crisp, there's a call for some essential home maintenance tasks to ensure your property is ready for the colder months ahead.

Here are some crucial fall maintenance tips to help homeowners in York County prepare their homes for the upcoming season:

1. Check and Clean the Gutters

Fall means leaves are falling, and they often end up clogging your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, so it's essential to clean them regularly during the fall. Make sure they are free of debris and in good working order to handle the autumn rains.

2. Inspect and Clean the Chimney

If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, it's vital to have your chimney inspected and cleaned before using it in the colder months. Creosote buildup can be a fire hazard, and a professional chimney sweep can remove it safely.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Inspect your doors and windows for any gaps or cracks that may be letting in cold air. Seal them with weatherstripping or caulking to improve energy efficiency and keep your home warm during the fall and winter.

4. HVAC System Maintenance

Before the temperatures drop significantly, have your heating system serviced by a professional HVAC technician. This will ensure it's running efficiently and safely. Don't forget to replace the air filters regularly to maintain good indoor air quality.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Safety should always be a priority. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are in working condition. Replace the batteries if needed, and consider upgrading to a smart smoke detector for added security.

6. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture

As you spend less time outdoors, it's a good idea to clean and store your outdoor furniture properly. This will extend its lifespan and keep it looking good for next spring and summer.

7. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Trim any overgrown branches that could potentially damage your home during a storm. Fall is an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs as they go dormant for the winter.

8. Drain and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets

Prevent frozen pipes by draining and shutting off outdoor faucets. Disconnect hoses and store them indoors. Insulate outdoor faucets to protect against freezing temperatures.

9. Inspect Your Roof

Check your roof for any loose or damaged shingles. Replace them as needed to prevent leaks during heavy rain or snowfall.

10. Clean and Store Lawn Equipment

Properly clean and store your lawnmower, trimmers, and other lawn equipment. Be sure to drain any fuel to prevent damage over the winter.

By following these fall maintenance tips, you can help protect your home from the harsher weather conditions that York County, South Carolina, may experience in the coming months. Taking the time to prepare your home now can save you money on repairs and keep your family safe and comfortable throughout the fall and winter seasons. Enjoy the beauty of the season, knowing that your home is well-maintained and ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

In this blog, "Exploring Recent South Carolina Relocation Factors," we will unveil a compelling narrative about the substantial influx of new residents to the area. According to United Van Lines, people are moving to South Carolina in record numbers. But what exactly is drawing individuals to choose our area as their new home? While there are many reasons, let's delve into some of the most important motivations. 

• Weather
• Cheaper Cost of Living
• Laid-Back Atmosphere, aka Southern Charm

Some factors driving the relocation traffic are these - 

• Career Change
• Retirement
• Closer proximity to Family

Where are people coming from -

• New Jersey
• Illinois
• New York
• Michigan
• Wyoming 
• Pennsylvania
• Massachusetts
• Louisiana
• California

Where in York County, South Carolina, are the most popular choices among those relocating to the area? Well, two places basically, and The Linda Hall Team of Century 21 First Choice knows both of these places intimately. 

#1. Fort Mill, SC

We've written a lot about Fort Mill in our blog because it is such a popular community in York County. In fact it is where our offices are located and where some of us live ourselves. 

Popular Fort Mill Attractions

Anne Springs Close Greenway - This is a nature preserve that is more than twice the size of Central Park. They host multiple events throughout the year. It's definitely an outdoor lover's idea of heaven. 

Walter Y. Elisha Park - This is a 12-acre park featuring a walking trail and green space that hosts a variety of festivals. 

Amor Artis Brewing - A brewery located at 204 Main Street, Suite 101. This is a family-owned, community-based brewery. They host many weekly events, including a run club and cycling club. 

Fort Mill History Museum - This is a historical center with a library, exhibits, and artifacts. It's a must-see if you are interested in the culture, industry, and development of the area. Located at 107 Clebourne Street. 

NarroWay Productions - A dinner theater located at 3327 SC-51 in Fort Mill. It features fun, family-friendly dinner shows and more. 

Craft Axe Throwing - A new entertainment where you throw an axe, nail the bullseye, and have a great time. It is located at 112 Academy Street. 

Upper Room Chapel - This is a place of prayer and worship where everyone is welcome. The Upper Room Chapel is a replica of the original Upper Room in Jerusalem, Israel. It was built to specifications and is about as close to the real thing as one could imagine. Definitely worth a visit. 

Fort Mill Community Playhouse - Located in historic Fort Mill at 220 Main Street is where you'll find this wonderful performing arts theater. You'll find all kinds of plays and dramatic works here. 

#2. Tega Cay, SC

Tega Cay is located just west of Fort Mill and is a planned city built on a peninsula along Lake Wylie, attracting those who love to be near the water. It's been voted as one of the best places to live. 

Popular Tega Cay Attractions

Mr. Putty's Fun Park - Known as Charlotte's premier family entertainment facility. Experience the 18-hole (ADA-compliant) mini-golf course, which boasts serene waterfalls and lush landscaping. There's axe throwing, bungee jumping, a challenge zone, and a hands of wax area where you can make a replica of your hands from paraffin wax. A fun day!!

Lookout / Trailhead Park - These are both great facilities provided by the City of Tega Cay, and there is a paved trail that connects both parks. 

Tega Cay Golf Club - This golf club was voted the #1 best golf course in the Fort Mill area. It's a 27-hole golf course that sits on over 200 acres surrounding Lake Wylie. A beautiful course that's adjacent to the 23,000-square-foot Glennon Community and Conference Center.

Windjammer Park -This park is one of the older and more popular parks featuring a beach and swimming area. There are some playground pieces, a picnic shelter, restrooms, and a scenic overlook. A lovely place to sit and enjoy the water. 

Catawba Park - A 62-acre park that consists of 3 lighted 225 ft baseball/softball fields, 1 lighted 300 ft baseball field, 1 lighted 100 ft t-ball field, 3 lighted full-sized multipurpose fields, ADA playground, walking trails, state and river launch. The Catawba Fest is held here each year, too. It is located at 2351 New Gray Rock Road in Tega Cay. 

Should you wish to explore these areas further or inquire about any aspect of the York County location, please regard The Linda Hall Team of Century 21 First Choice as your premier resource. Also, if you'd like to receive our monthly newsletter to keep up with all the news locally, please sign up - HERE. 

Explore the ins and outs of York County's real estate market and get special access to important insights from September 2023. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or just interested in the property market, be prepared to learn, be inspired, and feel empowered as we share the details of the September 2023 York County Real Estate Market.

New Listings

To begin our examination, let’s delve into the variety of new properties that were introduced to the market in September. In September 2021, the market saw the arrival of 446 new listings. However, in 2022, there was a 14.6 percent decrease in the number of properties, with only 381 listings available. Fast forward to this year, 2023, and the market experienced a further reduction of 6.0 percent from the previous year, bringing the total to 358 properties.

Homes for Sale

Next, let's delve deeper by analyzing the inventory of homes for sale. In 2021, there were 354 homes for sale. In 2022, the inventory of homes for sale increased by 61.6 percent, with 572 homes on the market. This year, in September, we saw a decrease of 18.4 percent, with 467 homes for sale. Less than the previous year but more than in 2021.

Pending Sales

Turning our attention to pending sales, let’s investigate the numbers from September 2021. We saw 374 pending sales in 2021, and in the following year, we decreased by 23.5 percent to 286 pending sales. This year, we saw a slight increase of 2.4 percent with 293 pending sales.

Median Days on Market

Now, let’s take a look at the median days on the market in September, starting with 2021, where properties spent an average of 4 days on the market. Moving to 2022, there was an increase of 75 percent to 7 days on the market, and in 2023, we increased by 14.3 percent to 8 days on the market.  

Months Supply of Homes for Sale

Now, let’s take a look at the Months Supply of Homes for Sale in September 2021, the supply was a mere 0.9 months. However, in 2022, the supply rose by 77.8 percent to 1.6 months, and in 2023, we rose again by 6.2 percent to 1.7 months. This means if new homes stopped entering the market, it would take 1.7 months to sell what's currently available.

Median Showings to Pending

Now, let's delve into the analysis of the median showings to pending ratio. In September 2021, it took a median of 11 showings to generate a pending sale. Moving to 2022, there was a decrease of 18.2 percent compared to the previous year, with 9 showings to pending. This year, we decreased by 11.1 percent to recording 8 showings to pending as the median ratio.

We hope you’ve found our comprehensive analysis of the York County real estate market insightful. If you’re considering selling your home this year, determining the right pricing strategy is crucial, and our team is on hand to offer our wealth of knowledge and assistance. Feel free to reach out to The Linda Hall Team at Century 21 First Choice. Let’s collaborate to realize your property aspirations for 2023!

October is a fantastic month to embrace the beauty of fall and celebrate the vibrant communities of Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and Clover, South Carolina. This month, the calendar is packed with a variety of local events that offer something for everyone. Let's explore the exciting happenings in each of these charming towns for October 2023.

Fort Mill, SC:

• Fall Artisan Market: Attend the Fall Artisan Market on October 7th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to enjoy cooler weather, delicious items from the Gateway Canteen, a scenic area of Anne Springs Close Greenway, and local shopping. Vendors will feature locally made goods, including but not limited to home décor, candles, soaps, holiday gifts, and family items.
• Fall Festival: Get ready for an evening filled with food, fun, and all things Fall with the upcoming Fort Mill Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023! The event will be held at the Fort Mill Amphitheater & Walter Elisha Park, 345 N. White Street, from 3 to 7 p.m. The evening begins with live music at the Fort Mill Amphitheater. Costume Contests for ages birth to adult will be held at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in front of the Amphitheater stage.  

Tega Cay, SC:

• Catawba Fest Arts & Crafts Show: The City of Tega Cay presents Catawba Fest on Saturday, October 14, in Catawba Park from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Plan on a day full of fun for the whole family. The day will feature several activities, including an arts and crafts show, an eating contest, fall plant potting education, a free kid's zone, and a cool selection of the region's top bands that are sure to bring you to your feet! 

Clover, SC: 

• Curtin Farm Fest:  RAIN or SHINE on October 7th starting at 10 am! Curtin Farms Fest is a community gathering with quality, hand-crafted, and unique products, antiques, local food, live music, craft beer, and much much more, all located on our 100-year-old working farm. With 70+ craftsmen, artisans, and food vendors, there is something for everyone here at Curtin Farms Fest. 

For a list of updated Halloween events in our area, please visit our blog "Updated 2023: Halloween Events in York County Sout Carolina"

Also, don't miss out on these monthly events, plus restaurant opening announcements, new business openings, and local news by signing up for The Linda Hall Team monthly newsletter. It's delivered every month on the first Thursday at  9 a.m. - SIGN UP TODAY!

October 2023 is shaping up to be a vibrant and eventful month in our area. From Fall festivals and cultural celebrations to art exhibitions, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the unique charm and community spirit of these towns. Mark your calendars and make the most of the exciting local events October!

American homeowners are sitting on a goldmine on average. Today, we would like to review with our readers some great news regarding the equity you may have in your homes. Equity may be used for several reasons, so it's important to discuss.

The fact is the average U.S. homeowner now has more than $290,000 in equity, up from $182,000 before the pandemic. (-Selma Hepp, Chief Economist, CoreLogic).

Almost half of all homeowners are equity-rich because they have at least 50% equity. Equity-rich homes are at a 4-year high. Here's a graph illustrating the rise in equity from 2020's 1^st quarter to 2023 2^nd quarter. 

Once you become privy to the amount of equity that you have, here are seven things you can do with that equity –

1.       You can become an all-cash buyer. You'll have no mortgage payments, and sellers may be more inclined to accept offers from buyers who make cash offers. It puts you in a stronger position when bidding on your next home.

2.       Ability to give a larger down payment. A larger down payment results in lower monthly mortgage payments and better loan terms (more favorable mortgage interest rates and lower private mortgage insurance costs, ultimately reducing the overall mortgage cost.

3.       Access to assisted living residences. Whether making payments or "buying into" an assisted living facility, having cash after the sale of a home dramatically increases your options.

4.       Buy a home that fits your needs. If your current space no longer meets your needs, it might be time to think about moving to a bigger home. And if you've got too much space, downsizing to a smaller home could be just right. Either way, you can put your equity toward a down payment on a home that fits your changing lifestyle. A real estate agent can help you determine how much equity you've got and how to use it when buying your next home.

5.       Reinvest in your current home. Renovations are a great option if you want to change your living space but aren't yet ready to move. Home improvement projects allow you to tailor your home to match your needs and personal style. But it's essential to consider the long-term benefits certain upgrades can bring to your home's value. Lean on a real estate professional for the best advice on which improvement projects to prioritize to get the greatest return on your investment when you sell later on.

6.       Pursue personal ambitions. Home equity can also serve as a catalyst for realizing your life-long dreams. That could mean investing in a new business venture, retirement, or funding an education. While you shouldn't use your equity for unnecessary spending, using it responsibly for something meaningful and impactful can make a difference in your life.

7.       Understand your options to avoid foreclosure. Today, foreclosure filings remain below the norm, so there's no need to fear a wave of foreclosed homes flooding the market. Unfortunately, some homeowners still experience the foreclosure process each year. If you're facing financial difficulties, clearly understanding your options and how your equity can help is crucial. Equity can act as a financial cushion that can be used in times of unexpected challenges or unforeseen circumstances that may disrupt your ability to make mortgage payments on time.

If you need to find out how much equity you have in your home, please get in touch with The Linda Hall Team, Century 21 First Choice. We'll help you figure it out and discuss your best options.