Michael's Blog

Dorchester District 2 School Calender of Events 2008-2009

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:06:49 -0500

Parents and children alike are counting down the days until it is time to go back to school. As usuall, parents are excited and most kids are dreading the end of their summer fun and freedom. Below is a schedule put out by the school board for Dorchester 2 county schools. This schedule indicates holidays and teacher work days for the 2008-2009 school year for Dorchester 2 county school.

August 18 (Monday) ................................. 1. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

August 19 (Tuesday) .................................. 2. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

August 20 (Wednesday) ............................. 3. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

August 21 (Thursday) ................................. First Day of School for Students

September 1 (Monday) ............................... Labor Day Holiday - Schools Closed

October 23 (Thursday)………………….. End of First Quarter – 45th Day of School

October 24 (Friday)……………………… 4. Staff Development/Work Day – No Students

November 4 (Tuesday)……………………Election Day – Schools Closed

November 26-28 (Wednesday-Friday)….. Thanksgiving Holidays – Schools Closed

December 22-January 2 .............................. Winter Holidays for Students

January 5 (Monday) ................................... 5. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

January 6 (Tuesday) ................................... Students Return from Winter Holidays Days

January 16 (Friday)……………………….End of Second Quarter – 90th Day of School

January 19 (Monday) ................................. Martin Luther King Holiday – Schools Closed

January 20(Tuesday) ................................. 6. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

February 13 (Friday) .................................. 7. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day - No Students

February 16 (Monday) ............................... Presidents' Day Holiday - Schools Closed

March 26 (Thursday)……………………..End of Third Quarter – 135th Day of School

March 27 (Friday)………………………...8. Staff Development/Teacher Work Day – No Students

April 6-13 (Monday-Monday)……………Spring Holidays

April 14 (Tuesday )……………………… Students Return from Spring Holidays

May 25 (Monday)…………………………Memorial Day Holiday – Schools Closed

June 7 (Sunday)…………………………...Graduation for SHS (2:00 p.m.) & FDHS (6:00 p.m.)

June 9 (Tuesday)………………………….Last Day for Students-End of Fourth Quarter-180th Day

June 10 (Wednesday)…………………… .9. Teacher Work Day - No Students

June 11 (Thursday)……………………….10. Teacher Work Day - No Students OR, if necessary

June 12 (Friday)…………………………..1st Inclement Weather Make-up Day (Last Day for Students-180th Day)

June 15 (Monday)……………………….. 2nd Inclement Weather Make-up Day (Last Day for Students-180th Day)

June 16 (Tuesday)……………………….. 3rd Inclement Weather Make-up Day (Last Day for Students-180th Day)

Calender for Berkeley County Schools 2008-2009

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:40:24 -0500

To the shugrim of kids everywhere, the start of school and the end of summer break is just around the corner. Below is the schedule of events for Schools in Berkeley County as taken by their website. The school board approved the schedule on Jan 23, 2008.

Let the countdown begin!

August 13	Wednesday	First Day for Teachers - School Meetings (A.M.)/ Teacher Workday (P.M.)
August 14	Thursday	K-12 Teacher Workday - No Students - 9th Grade Orientation
August 15	Friday	K-12 Teacher Workday (A.M.)/ School Meetings (P.M.) - No Students
August 18	Monday	First Day for Students
September 1	Monday	Labor Day - Schools & Offices Closed
September 10	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
September 17	Wednesday	Conference Day - 1/2 Day for Elementary/Intermediate/Middle
September 19	Friday	Progress Reports
October 8	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
October 13	Monday	District Staff Development - No Students
October 15	Wednesday	PSAT Testing
October 21	Tuesday	End of First Nine Weeks (45th Day)
October 21	Tuesday	HSAP ELA Testing
October 22	Wednesday	HSAP ELA Testing
October 23	Thursday	HSAP Math Testing
October 24	Friday	K-12 Teacher Workday - No Students
October 29	Wednesday	Report Cards
October 31	Friday	HSAP Testing - Last Day for Make-Up
November 4	Tuesday	Election Day - Schools & Offices Closed
November 12	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
November 26, 27, 28	Wed - Thurs - Fri	Fall Break
December 3	Wednesday	Progress Reports
Dec 22 - Jan 2	Mon - Friday	Winter Break
January 5	Monday	Students and Teachers Return
January 13	Tuesday	High School Final Exams
January 14	Wednesday	High School Final Exams - 1/2 day for High School Only
January 14	Wednesday	End of Second Nine Weeks (91st Day)
January 15	Thursday	K-12 Teacher Workday - No Students
January 16	Friday	District Teacher Workday (P.M. - Selected District Meetings) - No Students
January 19	Monday	Dr. Martin Luther King Day - Schools & Offices Closed
January 23	Friday	Report Cards
February 4	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
February 13	Friday	District Staff Development - No Students
February 16	Monday	Presidents' Day - Schools & Offices Closed
February 25	Wednesday	Progress Reports
March 4	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
March 24	Tuesday	End of Third Nine Weeks (135th Day)
March 27	Friday	District Teacher Workday (P.M. - Selected District Meetings) - No Students
April 2	Thursday	Report Cards
April 6 - 10	Mon - Friday	Spring Break
April 21	Tuesday	HSAP ELA Testing
April 22	Wednesday	HSAP ELA Testing
April 23	Thursday	HSAP Math Testing
May 1	Friday	HSAP Testing - Last Day for Make-Up Day
May 6	Wednesday	Early Dismissal for All Students
May 7	Thursday	Progress Reports
May 12 - 14	Tues - Thurs	PACT Testing
May 15 - May 26	Fri - Wed	Pact Testing & Make Up Testing
May 25	Monday	Memorial Day - Schools & Offices Closed
June 3	Wednesday	High School Final Exams - 1/2 Day for High School Only
June 4	Thursday	LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS - (180th Day) HS Final Exams - 1/2 Day All Students
June 5	Friday	K-12 Teacher Workday - No Students

VA Home Loans - Are You Eligible?

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:53:54 -0500

It this current time of ever-tightening purse strings and more rigid qualifications standards from lenders it is getting extremely hard for first time home buyers who don't have an abundance of money to purchase a home. But have no fear as there are still a few programs that if you qualify will allow you to purchase a home with no money down. One of the most recognizable programs is a VA home loan.

Simply serving in the military does not automatically make one eligible. In order to be eligible, the veteran must have:

(a) completed 24 months of continuous active duty (For reservists activated under Federal call up, they must complete the full period for which they were called but not less than 90 days) and been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable;

(b) completed at least 90 days of active duty and been discharged under the specific authority of 10 USC 1173 (Hardship), or 10 USC 1173 (Early out), or have been determined to have a compensable service-connected disability,

(c) been discharged with less than 90 days of service for a service-connected disability. Individuals may also be eligible if they were released from active duty due to an involuntary reduction in force, certain medical conditions, or, in some instances, for the convenience of the Government.

If the service characterized the discharge as "other than honorable", VA is required to make a determination as to whether that discharge was under dishonorable conditions. Under VA regulations, a discharge is dishonorable if it was issued under one of the following conditions:

As a conscientious objector who refused to perform military duty, wear the uniform, or comply with lawful order of competent military authorities.
By reason of the sentence of a general court-martial.
Resignation by an officer for the good of the service.
As a deserter.
As an alien during a period of hostilities, where it is affirmatively shown that the former service member requested his or her release. See 38 CFR §3.7(b).
By reason of a discharge under other than honorable conditions issued as a result of an absence without official leave (AWOL) for a continuous period of at least 180 days.
Acceptance of an undesirable discharge to escape trial by general court-martial.
Mutiny or spying.
An offense involving moral turpitude. This includes, generally, conviction of a felony.
Willful and persistent misconduct.
Homosexual acts

Hurricane Evacuation Routes for Charleston SC

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:17:40 -0500

Hurricane season 08 is in full swing with a few named storms already. The season extends from June 1st throuogh November 30th. The following are the planned evacuation routes for the different areas in the Charleston Metro. as put out by the state.

Edisto Island and Adams Run: [MAP] Evacuees from Edisto Island and Adams Run will take SC 174 to US 17. They will then take US 17 south to SC 64. SC 64 will take them to Walterboro and eventually to Augusta.
Yonges Island, Meggett, Hollywood, Ravenel: [MAP] Evacuees from Yonges Island, Meggett, Hollywood and Ravenel will take SC 165 to US 17. They will then take US 17 south to SC 64. SC 64 will take them to Walterboro and eventually to Augusta.
Johns Island, Kiawah Island and Seabrook: [MAP] Evacuees from Johns Island, Kiawah Island and Seabrook will use SC 700 and Secondary Road 20 (Bohicket Road) to US 17. They will then take US 17 south to SC 64. SC 64 will take them to Walterboro and eventually to Augusta.
James Island and Folly Beach: [MAP] Evacuees from James Island and Folly Beach will take SC 171 to US 17. They will then travel south on US 17 to I-526 to the reversed lanes of I-26.
City of Charleston: [MAP] Evacuees from the West Ashley area will use SC 61 to US 78. US 78 will take them to Aiken and eventually to Augusta. Evacuees from the downtown Charleston areas will use the normal westbound lanes of I-26.
North Charleston: [MAP] Evacuees from North Charleston will take US 52 (Rivers Avenue). They may take US 78 to US 178 to Orangeburg or they may stay on US 52 northbound to Goose Creek.
At Goose Creek, traffic in the right lane of US 52 will continue on to Moncks Corner. In Moncks Corner, it will be directed onto SC 6, which will take evacuees to Columbia.

Traffic in the left lane of US 52 at Goose Creek will be directed onto US 176 to Columbia.

Evacuees travelling west on SC 642 (Dorchester Road) will go to Old Orangeburg Road (Secondary 22) to US 78.
East Cooper: [MAP] Evacuees leaving Mt. Pleasant may take I-526 to I-26 or US 17 north to SC 41.
Evacuees leaving Sullivan’s Island will use SC 703 to I-526 Business to access I-526 then I-26.

Evacuees from the Isle of Palms would use the Isle of Palms Connector (SC 517) to go to US 17. The right lane will turn north on US 17, then proceed to SC 41, to SC 402, then to US 52 to SC 375, then to US 521, to SC 261 to US 378 to Columbia.

Evacuees using the left lanes of the Isle of Palms Connector would turn left to go to I-526 then on to I-26.

Evacuees in the right lane on I-526 approaching I-26 from the East Cooper area will be directed to the normal lanes of I-26. Evacuees in the left lane on I-526 will be directed into the reversed lanes of I-26.

Evacuees travelling on I-26 in the normal westbound lanes of travel will be allowed to exit at all interchanges between Charleston and Columbia. Evacuees travelling in the reversed lanes of travel will be allowed to exit at most, but not all, interchanges.

Re-entry to I-26 will be permitted at all interchanges, but only into the normal, not the reversed, lanes of travel.

No motorists in the reversed lanes of travel will be allowed directly from I-26 onto I-95. However, they will be able to access I-95 via exit 165. They will take SC 210 north to US 176 east to I-95.

I-26 westbound traffic in the normal travel lanes that does not exit prior to reaching Columbia will be routed onto I-77 north.

I-26 westbound traffic in the reversed travel lanes that does not exit prior to reaching Columbia will be directed by law enforcement officers across the interstate median into the normal lanes of travel.

Motorists are cautioned not to cross any roadway median unless directed to do so by a law enforcement officer.=
Awendaw and McClellanville: [MAP] Evacuees from Awendaw and McClellanville will take SC 45 to SC 6 to Columbia.

Home for Sale in Moncks Corner SC , Oakley Pointe, $210,000 ($78 SqFt)

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:02:41 -0500

563EnglishOak.com

(Select link for more photos and information)

563 English Oak Circle, Moncks Corner, SC

WOW! What a great deal in the flourishing Oakley Point neighborhood just off of HWY 52 in Moncks Corner. The neighborhood is equipped with several amenities including a neighborhood pool and playground. This is a 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 story home with 2684 square feet. With a price of $210,000, this is one of the best values in the Charleston metropolitan area at $78 SqFt.

The seller is offering a home warranty and $3000 toward closing costs with an acceptable offer and approved lender. This large home is move-in ready with many upgrades throughout. It sits on a great lot that backs up to a pond and woodlands.

Enter the home and the open floor plan becomes immediately evident as you walk into the formal living room. Stylish columns separate the formal dining room and a tray ceiling accents the area. The spacious kitchen is equipped with an electric range, dishwasher, garbage disposal, extra large cabinets with under cabinet lighting, and an ample pantry. The eat-in kitchen area sits in a perfect location in front of the sliding glass door for mornings when you would like to have breakfast and take in the fantastic view of the pond. The family room is equipped with a gas fireplace that can be turned on with the flick of a switch. This room is a nice place to entertain guests and is adequately distanced from the formal living room.

Next, head up the stairs and behold the grand loft. This area is great as a second living room where a kids TV, toys, and games can be kept. The 3 extra bedrooms are all a generous size and two of them have a walk-in closet. There is a full bath in close proximity to all of the bedrooms. The laundry room is also conveniently located upstairs. The master bedroom is extensive in size and features a cathedral/vaulted ceiling and a decorative ledge that can be used for plants and other ornaments. The master bathroom features dual sinks, a garden tub, and a separate shower. There is also a substantial master closet attached to the master bathroom.

Summerville SC Green Wave 2008 Football Schedule

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:02:30 -0500

The all time winningest football coach at any level coaches for the Summerville Green Wave. John McKissick has been the head coach for the Green Wave for over 50 years with 556 wins and counting. Last year he led his highly talented team to the state championship before being beat by Byrnes. The Green Wave have some huges holes to fill with the graduation of last years seniors which included nationally ranked and highly regarded wide receiver, AJ Green. The school has a total of 10 state championships and this year they will strive to add another trophy to the trophy case.

2008 Summerville Green Wave

Aug 29th v/s Conway

Sept 5th at Goose Creek

Sept 12th v/s Irmo

Sept 19th v/s Ft. Dorchester

Sept 26th at Stratford

Oct 3rd v/s West Ashley

Oct 10th at James Island

Oct 17th at Wando

Oct 24th v/s Berkeley

Oct 31st at Beaufort

Nov. 7th v/s Colleton County

Goose Creek SC High School 2008 Football Schedule

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:40:08 -0500

The lowcountry of South Carolina has several powerhouse high school football programs. One team that is known for doing more with less is the Goose Creek Gators. The past few years the gators have exceeded expectations and even made the playoffs last year. This year the young team looks to do it again with head coach Chuck Ready at the helm. Preseason practice begins on August 1st.

2008 Gator Football Schedule

Aug 29 at Northwestern

Sept 5 Summerville

Sept 12 at Carolina Forest

Sept 19 Colleton County

Sept 26 at Fort Dorchester

Oct 3 Stratford

Oct 10 at West Ashley

Oct 17 at James Island

Oct 24 Wando

Oct 31 at Berkeley

Nov 7 Beaufort

Rules for Being Human

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 19:51:17 -0500

I am undergoing a revolution of the mind!

You see, the way I use to perceive success and failure is falling by the wayside. What I am learning is that Alexander Pope was right when more than 250 years ago he wrote, "To err is human, to forgive divine." Success is not achieved through flawless activity but rather the ability to overcome errors and mistakes.

In his book Failing Forward, John Maxwell describes a list he came across that was similar in format to Murphy's Law and the Peter Principle. It is called "Rules for Being Human. The rules are as follows:

1. 1. You will learn lessons.
  2. There are no mistakes-only lessons.
  3. A lesson is repeated until it is learned.
  4. If you don't learn the easy lessons, they get harder (Pain is the one way the universe gets your attention).
  5. You'll know you've learned a lesson when your actions change.

Keep these rules in mind when dealing with your self and others!

Photo by www.learningspaces.org

Crowfield Plantation Market Report Second Quarter 2008

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:57:23 -0500

Here are the numbers for Crowfield Plantation in the second quarter (Apr-Jun) 2008.

Month	Year	Monthly Sales	Avg List $	Avg Sale $	Avg DOM	Discount	Current Inventory	Months Inventory
Subdivision:CROWFIELD PLANTATION
April	2008	11	$254,912	$247,262	102.27	3.09%	127	11.54
May	2008	14	$236,564	$228,642	108.78	3.46%	129	9.21
June	2008	8	$241,711	$234,187	110.25	3.21%	128	16.00
July	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	0	0.00
August	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	0	0.00
September	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	0	0.00
October	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	0	0.00
November	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	0	0.00
Annual:	2008 - 2008	0	$243,928	$236,193	106	0.00%	0	0.00
Note: The "Current Inventory" column(s) reflect the number of active and contingent (on market) listings on the 16th day of each month. The "Months Inventory" column(s) value(s) equal "Current Inventory" divided by "Monthly Sales". This reflects how many months it would take to sell out of inventory at the current month's rate of sale. Note that there is currently 16 months of inventory with a three month average of selling 11 houses per month in the Crowfield Plantation neighborhood. This means that if you are planning to sell your house and need to do so in a timely manner, then your house must be priced right, in great condition, offer good incentives to the buyer and it must be aggressively marketed. For more information or for a free home consult, contact me at 843-817-5299 or email me at michaeljohnson@carolinaone.com

Those Crazy New Light Bulbs!

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 14:33:32 -0500

Now, I'll admit it! I love nature but I'm not an environmentalist. Sure, I'll pick up a piece of trash on the ground at the park, but I don't belong to an organization that sponsers highway clean up. Unless of course you count the fact that I'm a taxpayer and those guys in orange jump suits walking along the side of the road with orange trashbags. (I digress)

I like gas saving cars but not because I'm trying to save the world but because it save me money. I believe global warming is probably happening, but not because we drive too many cars or spray too many aerosal cans. Gas emitted from cows does more to "harm" the environment than we ever will...not to mentioned those dang pesky volcanoes.

Anyway, I got a special package in the mail from my electric company today and surprise...it wasn't an electric bill. They actually sent me a gift. Two brand new compact fluroescent lightbulbs. As you can probably guess, all I have are those cheap traditional lightbulbs in my house with the exception of my garage which has fluoescent bulbs.

Not one to turn away a gift, I figured I'd try them out. I took it out of the box and put one in my kitchen. Then I read the box: up to 7 year life cycle, lasts 13 times longer than sandard bulbs, up to $70 energy costs savings, may interfere with radios, cordless phones, or wireless remotes. What the?? ...may interfere with what??

I read it again and sure enough, that''s what it said! Perplexed I did what all isavy internet peoeple do when they need answers...I googled it! I found a site called www.literonics.com. Here is what they said about it:

Television Interference (TVI) occurs when components in ballast generates a magnetic field. This field may interfere with the amplification of the AM component of a received signal when the ballast is in close proximity to the receiver. Litetronics lamps are produced to greatly reduce TVI.

OK! Come on...are these really lights, or are they just another way for Uncle Sam to spy on us! Lights on...record now! I just can't wait to use the new fancy lights! Maybe I will be able to intercept my neighbor's cell phone calls if I put enough in my house.

Foxborough Neighborhood in Goose Creek SC Market Report

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:33:13 -0500

Foxborough is an older and established neighborhood in Goose Creek, SC. Most of the homes were built in the 70's and 80's. Unlike most new homes being built, many of the homes in Foxborough are brick and many have larger backyards. The neighborhood is convienantly located near several shopping centers to include Wal-Mart and Lowes. The schools are Westview Elementary and Goose Creek High School. If you would like more information about the neighborhood, or if your are interested in either buying or selling contact me, Michael Johnson, for expert home analysis in Foxborough.

Below is the sales and inventory report from June 07-May 08. Homes sales have recently jumped and the currently inventory is 6 homes for sale.


Category - Residential Statistics for Entire MLS from 6/1/2007 - 5/31/2008
Subdivision:Foxborough
Month	Year	Monthly Sales	Avg Lis $	Avg Sale $	Avg DOM	Discount	Current Inventory	Months Inventory
June	2007	2	$162,200	$157,750	59.00	2.82%	4	2.00
July	2007	1	$99,821	$99,821	24.00	0.00%	6	6.00
August	2007	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	8	0.00
September	2007	1	$130,000	$134,000	28.00	-3.07%	6	6.00
October	2007	1	$89,500	$86,000	89.00	4.06%	7	7.00
November	2007	1	$135,000	$139,000	25.00	-2.96%	5	5.00
December	2007	1	$119,900	$110,000	6.00	9.00%	8	8.00
January	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	9	0.00
February	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	12	0.00
March	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	12	0.00
April	2008	0	0	0	0.00	0.00%	11	0.00
May	2008	4	$133,337	$130,725	90.00	1.99%	10	2.50
Annual:		11	$130,179	$127,929	59	1.71%	6	5.21

Annual:	2007 - 2008	11	$130,179	$127,929	59	1.71%	6	5.21

College Park Neighborhood Statistics in Ladson SC

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:04:48 -0500

Month	Year	Monthly Sales	Avg List $	Avg Sale $	Avg DOM	Discount	Current Inventory	Months Inventory
College Park Subdivison in Ladson, SC is a well established neighborhood with plenty of trees and growth. Nearly all the homes are brick and nearly all sit on at least a quarter acre of a lot. These homes are a rare find especially in our modern homebuilding era of cookie-cutter houses. Below is a sales and inventory graph with indicators of the past 12 months of sales within College Park. Currently there is 24 homes in college park on the market for sale with a 7.3 months of inventory based on the current monthly sales rate. If you are in College Park and you need to sell you home, contact me at 843-817-5299 and I'll show you how to sell you house for the most money in the least amount of time. I utilize a revolutionary system called the sellability index that helps your address issues such as price, condition, incentatives, and marketing. Subdivision:COLLEGE PARK
June	2007	8	$146,937	$139,275	38.12	5.50%	19	2.37
July	2007	6	$140,383	$137,850	24.83	1.83%	21	3.50
August	2007	2	$117,950	$106,500	118.50	10.75%	28	14.00
September	2007	4	$136,325	$133,500	26.75	2.11%	28	7.00
October	2007	5	$144,980	$142,980	104.20	1.39%	28	5.60
November	2007	3	$130,266	$126,300	35.33	3.14%	30	10.00
December	2007	7	$122,357	$118,914	32.71	2.89%	26	3.71
January	2008	5	$137,560	$124,860	69.60	10.17%	20	4.00
February	2008	5	$139,523	$138,236	102.20	0.93%	20	4.00
March	2008	3	$136,466	$128,633	55.33	6.08%	21	7.00
April	2008	2	$138,950	$140,000	19.50	-0.75%	24	12.00
May	2008	2	$124,239	$114,500	6.50	8.50%	29	14.50
Annual:		52	$136,392	$131,247	52	4.38%	24	7.30

Annual:	2007 - 2008	52	$136,392	$131,247	52	4.38%	24	7.30

Solid Brick v/s Brick Veneer

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:39:15 -0500

We've all heard the story as kids of the three little pigs and how the big bad wolf blew down the house of straw and then another of sticks. But, to the dismay of the big bad wolf, he could not blow down the house made of bricks. The sturdiness of the bonded bricks provided a safe home for the three little pigs.

As we get older we associate that story from our childhood to home safety and security. Most people consider the safeness of a brick home as top notch from protection from the elements of high winds, no matter if it is the big bad wolf or a big bad hurricane.

But ask your self a question. Are brick homes built within the last 30 to 40 years built the same way during the time that the Three Little Pigs were written, or even 50 years ago? Are most modern homes "solid brick?" The answer for most parts of the country is no they are not.

I'm sure you are saying to yourself, "Wait a minute, I have a brick home and it was built within the last 30 years!" Sure you have a brick home, but it is most likely not solid brick masonary. What you have is brick veneer!

So, how can you tell the difference?

Solid brick homes are old school homes. There is no wooden frame when it is initally built. The brick layers lay the mold and stack the bricks on top of the foundation working thier way up. On the other hand, brick veneer homes use the same type of bricks but there is a wooden frame in place before the brick work begins. Then the brick layers lay the bricks around the frame.

The Carson Dunlap Consulting Engineers website states that with a solid brick house "the brick is holding up the house. With brick veneer the house is holding up the brick," and the brick acts as siding to the house. The consulting firm goes on to explain that:

Brick veneer became the norm when building codes began to require insulation in the exterior walls. One of the best insulators is air. Most good insulation does nothing but trap air; that's why most insulations are light and fluffy. Brick is not exactly light and fluffy. Therefore it's not really a very good insulator. A brick veneer house then, is really a wood frame house where the cavity between the studs in the wall can be insulated.

Which style makes for a better house is a judgemenet call on your part. Solid brick homes are certainly stronger, but are not well insulated. Brick veneer homes are still strong, although not as strong as solid brick, but are much better insulated. There are advantages to both, but most builders use the brick veneer technique to meet building code standards. Keep the advantages of both in mind when you decide to sell or buy your next house.

Home for Sale in Ladson SC, College Park, $150,000

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:09:49 -0500

www.200columbiadrive.com

**Large Screen Porch** Fantastic home in the beautiful and well established neighborhood of College Park! Owner is offering a home warranty, major kitchen appliances, and the washer and dryer with an acceptable offer.

This nearly all brick home is in move in condition. Most of the house has relatively new carpet. As you walk in the front door you will notice the large family room to the right where countless hours of entertainment can be had. Head toward the dining room where plenty of space has been allotted for the dining room table and then continue on to the kitchen. The kitchen is adorned with a tile floor and also has space for an eat-in-area if desired. There is an abundance of cabinet space throughout the kitchen area. Next to the kitchen is the laundry room and out the door to the spacious one car garage that has built in cabinets and workman's space.

Head back through the house toward the dining room and down the hall with the bedrooms. The two extra bedrooms are a good size and both have ceiling fans. The master bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, ceiling fan, and walk-in closet. The master bathroom is equipped with a few handicap ready features.

What really makes this house stand out is the large 319 square foot screened in porch. Entertain guests or enjoy a nice dinner outside on a nice cool evening. The screened porch also has a two ceiling fans for the not so cool days. There is also a covered patio area and detached storage shed in the nicely landscaped and fenced in back yard.

For more photos visit www.200columbiadrive.com.

Father's Day From My Little Girl

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:35:19 -0500

I am a proud father of a beautiful 3 year old girl who is the light of my life. Friday I picked her up from daycare and she gave me a piece of paper that had her footprint and a poem on it.

Here is the poem:

"Walk a little slower daddy", said a child so small.

"I'm following in your footsteps and I don't want to fall.

Sometimes your steps are very fast, sometimes they're hard to see;

So walk a little slower, Daddy, for you are leading me!

Someday when I'm all grown up, you're what I want to be;

Then I will have a little child who'll want to follow me.

And I would want to lead just right, and know that I was true;

So, walk a little slower, Daddy, for I must follow you."

Needless to say it choked me up a little and serves as a reminder to me and other dads like me that our children are looking up to us, watching and mimicking every move we make. It reminded me of when I take my little girl's tiny little hand and we walk together. It doesn't take long until I remember that I can't walk as fast because her short little legs cannot keep up! I have to slow down even if I am in a hurry!

As men, the greatest responsibility we will ever have is that of being a dad. Don't take it too lightly and don't take it too intense. Just slow down every day and remember that they are following in our footprints.

2008 Charleston Area Beach Report

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:51:12 -0500

Beach weather is in full swing in the lowcountry of Charleston SC. There are a host of beaches in the area but the more popular ones include, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, and Edisto Island.

The age group at all beaches is usually pretty mixed, but the younger crowd usually flock to Isle of Palms near the Windjammer or The Washout at Folly Beach (surfer's hangout). The Windjammer is a sports/beach bar of sorts famous for its live concerts and bikini contests. Bands such as Cowboy Mouth, Will Hoag, The Blue Dogs, and on occassion, local favorite Hootie and the Blowfish show up to play at this venue.

When I want a more secluded public beach experience I head up to Edisto Beach. Most tourists don't know about the beach and/or care to make the 45 minute trek from downtown. You can also find nice size seashells fully intact. But beware, the undertow tends to be a bit strong at Edisto for some reason and the sand has a lot of crushed seashells in it making it slightly more coarse.

A useful tool to have before heading out to the beach is a tide table. To the right is a tide table for the month of June 2008. South Carolina Dept. of Health and Enviornmental Control has more tide tables at thier website.

Don't Make the Same Mistakes I Have!

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:48:29 -0500

I've started a new group called Lessons Learned in which you can join and/or visit to see postings where individuals share their mistakes and the lessons that were learned. There is no reason to make the same mistakes that someone else has made if you can learn from them. Come join the group and share your expriences and enlightenments!

John Maxwell says, "The diference between average people and achieving people is thier perception of and response to failure."

Short Sales: Is it Worth the Risk?

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:46:48 -0500

All buyers have one thing in common - they all want to get the best deal possible, especially in this market! Many are turning to foreclosures and short sales in hopes of getting that great deal! If one is equipped with time, energy, and patience, the short sale option might be right for you. But beware, there are many pitfalls when going this route.

Short Sales: A short sale is not quite a foreclosure and not quite a regular sale. It is the step that many home owners utilze before the bank puts the home in foreclosure. A short sale is when the lender will accept less than the full amount due on a mortgage. The biggest problem with short sales is that the contract to purchase the home is contingent upon 3rd party bank approval. That means that the wonderful price that you think that you have gotten for the house, may not meet the banks expectation of what they are willing to take for the house.

Quite often, the short sale price that is advertised is considerably less than what the seller owes to the bank. For example the seller may owe 200K on the house but advertises it for sale at 175K. Sounds like a great deal right....except now the bank has to be convinced that they should take 25K less than what is still owed to them. Most short sale contracts will stipulate that once the contract is ratified by the seller and buyer, the bank has upwards of 60 days (depending on the bank policy) to give you thier decision. Best case scenerio is after the banks alloted timeframe it will accept the offer and you get to close on a great deal on a house. The most common scenerio is that the bank will take the entire time alloted and then decide that they will not accept the price for the house. You then have the choice of paying the full price owed to the bank or moving on to another house. Note: the bank takes its time replying intentionally because they want to wait for other offers.

Why would someone use the short sale process you might ask? It most often occurs in declining markets! I see it mostly in new construction neighborhoods. The price that was paid for a given house 2 or 3 years ago is considerably more than what the builder is offering to build the same house now. The seller has to sell because he/she needs to relocate. Thus the seller must reduce his/her price to be competitive. This is only one of many scenerios for short sales.

Banks are not interested in being in the real estate business, other than offering a loan for the purchase therein! They tend to leave the process of buying and selling to the Realtor professionals. With that in mind it is also not in their best interest to loose money. Quite often, banks would rather the property fall into foreclosure, pay a few thousand dollars to get the property up to where it should be, and recoup the money they would have lost by allowing a short sale. There are real estate professionals that base their entire business plan upon working with banks to do just that.

For more information about short sales, contact Michael Johnson at 843-817-5299 or visit my website at www.providingthelight.com

Charleston Metro Growth Forum

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Tue, 06 May 2008 19:22:35 -0500

Today I went to a growth forum for the north area of the Charleston Metro. The panel consisted of Jim Hill (MeadWestvaco), Larry Hargett (Dorchester County Council), Michael Heietzler (Mayor of Goose Creek), and Rick Vale (Daniel Island Development). Each got an opportunity to speak and answer questions. The following is a summary of their presentations that indicate the direction of growth in the Charleston Metro over the next 10-20 years.

Jim Hill - MeadWestvaco

company owns over 400K acres of land is SC (it was 2.5 million acres in 2001)
they have sold a lot of land since 2001 because improvements in technology have decreased the need for large amounts of forested land and it has become impractical to manage large amounts of forested land. The sale of this land has lead to increase commercial and residential development.

Larry Hargett - Dorchester County Council

Dorchester County is the fastest growing county in SC
Summerville has a population of 40K
Dorchester County is about 42 miles long and it is expected to grow north and west in population around St. George and Harlyville.
Dorchester county has had problems in the past with poor planning with regards to infrastructure but county has made legislative steps to remedy that to include the 1 cent sales tax for roads.
Dorchester County's biggest draw is the school system.

Michael Heitzler - Goose Creek Mayor

Goose Creek is a vastly diverse population with 42 ethnic groups
The demographics of age were shifting up and also shift from blue collar to white collar.
Population of Goose Creek in 2000 was nearly 30K; it is expected to increase dramatically in the next 10 to 20 years.
Current major developments in Goose Creek include Liberty Hall Plantation, Longleaf, Brickhope Gardens, and Canes Crossroads.
Expected to spend 15 millon dollars over the next 10 years to develop downtown and beautify it while preserving the history.

Rick Vale (Daniel Island Development)

Daniel Island Development is overseeing the development of Carnes Crossroads (to be located near the intersection of HWY 17A and HWY 176.
Carnes will be referenced for resedential and Carnes Crossroads will be referenced for Commercial.
The development will consist of about 2000 acres.
They plan to start building in early fall 2008 and the first homeowners are expected to move in the spring of 2009. Price points will start at mid 200K
15000 people will make up the community of Carnes.
There will be 300 acres of lakes, much of which will be recreational; there will also be biking and walking trails.
Carnes Crossroads will have a marketplace with specialty shops and restaurants.
Roper/St Francis Hospital has purchased 66 acres in the area and will be the only Hospital in Berkeley County within the Charleston Metro.

Goose Creek SC Real Estate

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:27:36 -0500

The city of Goose Creek SC is conveniently located about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston and about 30 minutes from the major beaches. The city has over 30,000 residents. Most residents call it home because of its beauty and small town feel as well as the standing rule in Charleston area real estate: "The further you get from downtown and the beaches, the more you will get for your money." Another attractive feature that residents benefit from is the fact that most of Goose Creek is not in a flood zone and thus rarely experiences floods, unlike its neighboring towns and sea islands closer to the beach. Below are this year's housing statistics for Goose Creek South Carolina.

Month	Year	Monthly Sales	Avg ListPrice	Avg Sale Price	% Diff Sell/list	Avg DOM	Curr Inventory	Months Inventory
January	2008	61	$175,859	$170,924	97.19%	77.0	449	7.36
February	2008	63	$165,839	$162,978	98.27%	80.0	450	7.14
March	2008	75	$164,492	$162,262	98.64%	78.0	440	5.87
April	2008	59	$172,778	$170,006	98.40%	76.0	452	7.66

Total		258	$169,742	$166,543	98.12%	77.8	448	7.01

Total	2008-2008	258	$169,742	$166,543	98.12%	78.0	448	7.00

If you have any questions about real estate in Goose Creek or if you would like to see a home here or anywhere in the Charleston Metro, please contact Michael Johnson at Carolina One Real Estate: 843-817-5299 or visit www.providingthelight.com

Prudential Carolina Real Estate Name Change

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 22:47:59 -0500

The company that has been known as Prudential Carolina Real Estate for the last 9 years is dropping the franchise name and recreating itself as Carolina One Real Estate. The franchise has been a limiting factor for us so we are doing what so many other market leaders in other cities have done. We are affiliating ourselves with "Leading Real Estate Companies of the World," a global network of over 700 independent companies that come together to form a marketing and referral juggernaut. LeadingRE has more annual U.S. homes sales in volume that any real estate franchise.

So, what does all this mean for you, our customers and clients? You will still get the same top notch service, expertise, and professionalism that you have come to know and love with Prudential Carolina Real Estate. But in addition, once we turn the corner on May 1^st, and become Carolina One Real Estate, our ability to market your home to not only the local and national market but also to the entire global community, will be greatly magnified through a larger relocation network and with ever increasing online reach.

Our company was recently ranked #39 out of 80,000 real estate firms in the US. Although we are very proud of that achievement, we know that there is always opportunity to move higher by providing a better product for our clients and customers. We believe that making this change will enable us to do just that! On May 1^st Prudential Carolina Real Estate will become Carolina One Real Estate!

Crowfield Plantation 1st Quarter 2008 (January-March) Sales and Inventory Report

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:37:22 -0500

Below is the inventory report for Crowfield Plantation located in Goose Creek SC for the first quarter of 2008. Goose Creek is a suburb of Charleston and is only about 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. Crowfield Plantation is a beautiful community made up 24 different subsections, each with its own unique housing design and varying prices that range from $144,000 to $978,000.

Month / Sales / Avg List Price / Avg Sale Price / Avg Days on Market / Curr. Inventory / Months Inventory

January 11 $253,231 $240,891 78.0 109 9.91

February 18 $206,401 $201,490 127.0 110 6.11

March 13 $240,643 $235,468 102.0 110 8.46

Total 42 $233,425 $225,950 102.3 110 8.16

For more information about Crowfield Plantation and other homes in the Goose Creek - Charleston SC area, contact Michael Johnson at 843-817-5299 or www.providingthelight.com

IRS Rebate Timetable

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:09:32 -0500

Here’s the government’s plan for making the economic stimulus payments for taxpayers whose 2007 returns are filed and processed by April 15. The expected payments are $600 for a person filing single and $1200 for a joint file. There is also an expected payout of $300 per child. Note: Those that exceed $75,000 gross income filing single, or $150,000 filing jointly can expect a reduced payment based on how much their income exceeds the limits.

DIRECT DEPOSIT PAYMENTS: (if you filed electronically)
Last two digits of your Social Security number / Your rebate should be sent to your bank account by

00 - 20 / May 2

21 - 75 / May 9

76 - 99 / May 16

PAPER CHECK (if you filed by mailing in your forms)

Last two digits of your Social Security number are / Your check should be in the mail by

00 - 09 / May 16

10 - 18 / May 23

19 - 25 / May 30

26 - 38 / June 6

39 - 51 / June 13

52 - 63 / June 20

64 - 75 / June 27

76 - 87 / July 4

88 - 99 / July 11

"Doom & Gloom," or "The Sky is Falling, The Sky is Falling"

Michael Johnson, REALTOR - Goose Creek SC (Carolina One Real Estate) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:07:06 -0500

Every time we turn on the television "information experts" in the news are there to tell just how bad the housing market has become. As a matter of fact, I thought I was dreaming a few nights ago when when a local news station reported that the Charleston SC market is actually doing good so far this year. I was shocked that they would dare run such good news to the mass public.

First, the house market is not bad! It is simply adjusting (that's what happens in a market economy). This market is great for buyers and can still be good for sellers in certain areas! Areas such as our Charleston, SC market!

Second, the national media is making matters worse by inciting a panic in nation wide housing. The problem is that there is no such thing as nation wide housing. Real estate is local! You can't compare housing by making a blanket assumption.

Today I stumbled across a few quotes from the doom and gloom artists of the past that all but wrote off the chances of a housing resurgence. Sound familiar?

(photo source http://bigpicture.typepad.com)

“The prices of houses seem to have reached a plateau, and there is reasonable expectancy that prices will decline.” (Time, December 1, 1947)
“Houses cost too much for the mass market. Today’s average price is around $8,000—out of reach for two thirds of all buyers.” (Science Digest, April 1948)
“The goal of owning a home seems to be getting beyond the reach of more and more Americans. The typical new house today costs $28,000.” (Business Week, September 4, 1969)
“The era of easy profits in real estate may be drawing to a close.” (Money, January 1981)
“Most economists agree…[a home] will become little more than a roof and a tax deduction, certainly not the lucrative investment it was through much of the 1980s.” (Money, April 1986)
“The baby boomers are all housed now. They are being followed by the baby bust. By 2005, real housing prices will sit 40 percent below where they are today.” (Harvard economist Gregory Mankiw, “The Baby Boom, the Baby Bust, and the Coming Collapse of Housing Prices.” Journal of Regional Economics, Fall 1989)
“A home is where the bad investment is.” (San Francisco Examiner, November 17, 1996)
“But the real question is, how will [housing prices] look longer term? As I’ve said in the past, I do not think that housing values will be higher five to ten years from now.” (Yale economist Robert Shiller, quoted in Newsweek, January 27, 2005)