Joe Nester's Blog

Columbia South Carolina Advanced Blogging Strategy Training With Key Yessaad

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 21:27:54 -0700

Columbia South Carolina Advanced Blogging Strategy Training With Key Yessaad

I have been exposed to mind stretching concepts. I have seen inspirational results. I will now rejoice in the process. I will acquire the habits to be my best. I will be client driven. I will remember that sometimes I will suck. I will accept it and move forward. It was just another brilliant internet marketing training with the master of all things Google, Key Yessaad.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

West Columbia SC Real Estate, Columbia SC - Joe Nester Realtor. EXIT Agape Real Estate Services is ready to serve your real estate needs in Lexington, West Columbia, Irmo, Forest Acres, and Columbia South Carolina. Our experienced agents have all the right tools to properly market your listing or to search for your perfect new home. We strive to exceed your expectations on every transaction. (803) 730-7269 or (803) 454-3504.

Agape Senior South Carolina Launches Brand New Home Assesment Program

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 21:59:52 -0700

Agape Senior South Carolina Launches Brand New Home Assesment Program

Every day in South Carolina thousands of senior adults are struggling to get through the day. It might be a mobility issue that makes even simple tasks seem impossible. It might be a maintenance issue with the home that is causing an unsafe living condition. Or it could be isolation and loneliness that are causing depression. If the senior does not have a local support system he or she will usually suffer in silence.

Often in these cases the condition deteriorates to the point where the senior ends up in the hospital because of a fall, dehydration or dozens of other possibilities. When this happens a family member might come in from out of town and be faced with the reality that his or her loved one can no longer completely function on his or her own. This is a crisis situation for everyone involved. Important decisions about future care have to be made quickly and usually with limited information.

Agape Senior, a leading provider of senior care in South Carolina, has been working actively with local communities and churches to educate seniors about different care options available. "We want to help seniors avoid a crisis and be able to make an informed decision about additional care when and if the time comes," states Scott Middleton, CEO of Agape Senior.

In response to this growing problem, Agape Senior just launched a brand new program that is focused on taking solutions and options to the senior. The Agape Senior Home Assessment program is now available throughout the state. The comprehensive program involves an (SSA) Senior Solution Advisor making a house call at the request of the homeowner or family member. The trained advisor will evaluate the current conditions and identify the areas that pose the greatest daily living challenges for the senior in the home.

The checklist for the program was designed by experts within the senior healthcare industry. The multiple categories within the checklist look at all of the areas of daily living. There is a large focus on safety and ease of mobility in the current home. The goal is to identify potential problems and help the senior connect to possible solutions before the problem becomes a crisis.

If you would like more information on the Agape Senior Home Assessment program or would like to schedule an assessment please call 1-800-411-AGAPE (2427)

Joe Nester

West Columbia GMM Insurance Specializes in Long Term Care Insurance

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 00:24:38 -0700

August 7th, 2010 12:06 AM

GMM Insurance can assist with virtually any insurance need, but our affiliation with Agapé Senior has led us to specialize in the field of long-term care insurance. Medicare does not pay for most long-term care services, so having a long-term care policy is the best way to ensure that you make all the decisions about your care and well-being later in life. Please watch our informative Long-Term Care Insurance video and then call us to talk to the professionals who know long-term care better than anybody else in the Midlands.

Columbia Real Estate for Sale The Gates at Williams Brice

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:05:21 -0700

Enjoy the splendid view of Williams Brice stadium and the surrounding area. This condo has a great vantage point for all of the game day action. The spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is perfect for entertaining guests or your best clients. The kitchen with its granite counters, large island and open layout will make preparing game day meals a snap. The master bath features double vanity, garden tub, and plenty of room for all your things. The guest bedroom, and guest bath, is on the opposite side of living space from master for maximum privacy. The lush landscaping and flowering plants in the common area court yard will remind you of a resort setting. Relax pool side while watching the game on large flat screen TVs, while cooking some steaks on one of the stainless grills. Cool off with a dip in the pool or soak your tired muscles in the Jacuzzi. Do not miss the chance to own this special property. Call today to arrange your personal showing. Or take virtual tour now.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

West Columbia SC Real Estate, Columbia SC – Joe Nester Realtor. EXIT Agape Real Estate Services is ready to serve your real estate needs in Lexington, West Columbia, Irmo, Forest Acres, and Columbia South Carolina. Our experienced agents have all the right tools to properly market your listing or to search for your perfect new home. We strive to exceed your expectations on every transaction. (803) 730-7269 or (803) 454-3504.

Columbia SC Real Estate For Sale 2541 Chatsworth Windsor Lake

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:59:46 -0700

This sharp all brick ranch in Windsor Lake is ready to move in. The large shady lot, attached carport, and cement patio are some of the exterior features of the home. The interior features gorgeous exposed hardwoods in formal living room and dining room. Kitchen has large bright eat-in area, built in pantry closet, and ample kitchen cabinets. The knotty pine family room would make a great place to watch the big game or take a Sunday afternoon nap. The three large bedrooms feature a private bath in master and a shared guest bath in hall. The back yard has landscaped natural areas that will keep mowing to a minimum. Call today to see this special home. Take virtual tour of home now.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

West Columbia Home For Sale 812 Jefferson

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 23:39:51 -0700

Well maintained brick ranch on Quiet Street in West Columbia. Front porch overlooks mature plantings and shady lot. Back yard has raised cement patio, chain link fence, and plenty of room to garden, build a pool, or just relax. The Large formal living / dining room combination has lots of windows for plenty of natural light. Gleaming hardwoods lie under carpet.

There is a large den, family room just off kitchen with sliding doors to back yard. Kitchen has stainless steel sink, cook-top stove, and ample cabinets for storage. Side door leads to carport. All three bedrooms have exposed hardwood floors. Master bedroom has walk-in-closet. Guest bath and master bath have been completely renovated to include glass block privacy window, new floors, new glass shower in master, new toilets, and vanities. This home is move-in ready. Sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee while enjoying the view of your back yard. Call today to schedule a tour of this home. Or take virtual tour now.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

West Columbia SC Real Estate - Properties for Sale in West Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as West Columbia Startup Homes, West Columbia Median Homes, West Columbia Upscale Homes, West Columbia Luxury Homes, and West Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in West Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists. (803) 454-3504

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]	West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]	West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]
West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]	West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale	Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

Columbia SC Patio Home for Sale in Senior Adult Community Agape Village

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 04:24:05 -0700

June 27th, 2010 3:50 AM

Sharp two bedroom two bath patio home in age restricted Agape Village. Enjoy a virtually maintenance free environment at a reasonable price. Our all inclusive regime will simplify your life and give you more time to do the things you love. Beautiful community center with work out equipment, large meeting room with kitchen facilities for personal use or group functions. Sprinkler system, walk in closet in master, low curb shower, and gas fireplace are just a few of the amenities that make these homes special. Call today to arrange a tour.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Real Estate New Listing 6504 Dorchester

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 13:22:24 -0700

Charming brick home from the 1940's on quiet corner lot in Denny Terrace sub-division. Well maintained and move in ready. Home has plenty of character from the transom windows, vintage light fixtures, and glass door knobs. Bathroom features classic style ceramic floor tile. Home also features refinished hardwoods throughout. The gleaming hardwoods add warmth and style to every room. Gather your guests around the wood burning fireplace and have a cup of cheer on a cold December day. Or read a book on this enclosed sun porch while enjoying nature and the mature plantings throughout the yard. Brick siding with vinyl wrapped overhang will leave you plenty of time to pursue other interests. No need to paint. Large vintage country kitchen has original sink and cabinets. Enjoy the old style amenities or update to your tastes. You will love everything about this well constructed home. Arched openings between rooms are another example of the character found throughout. Call today for your personal tour of this fantastic home.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia Real Estate Training Gives Internet Edge to Exit Agents

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 13:18:56 -0700

In the early morning blackness of the pre-dawn, a sedan maneuvers through the empty streets of Wilmington, North Carolina. The man behind the wheel has mentally prepared himself for a long day. He guides his car onto the highway toward his destination in Columbia, SC. The two hundred plus mile trip to Columbia will take approximately three hours.

Key Yessaad, an internet strategist, is a driven man. His knowledge of the inner workings of the internet is surpassed only by his passion to share that information in a meaningful, measureable way. Key, a former professor of mathematics is uniquely equipped to teach lay people about the intricacies of effective internet strategy.

At 7:30 a.m. Key arrives at the training center for Exit Realty in West Columbia. For the next hour he is consumed with getting a wide array of wires, cables, and gadgets connected for his presentation. Wires are duct-taped to the floor, projectors and monitors are tested, sound is checked, programs and videos pre-loaded, internet is brought up, and the room is set for the Exit agents and brokers who will attend.

By 8:45 when the first agents begin to arrive, Key has already been working for over four hours. There is music pulsing from speakers while video flashes across the large projector screen and plasma monitor. The chatter among the agents combined with the music videos creates an upbeat atmosphere.

At 9:30 Key eases into the first part of the training. He spends several minutes on getting the students into the right frame of mind. He asks them to be completely present in the room. The students will need to be able to wrap their minds around the concepts. Key also wants them to know what they can expect to take away at the end of the day.

The challenge for Key is that there are 32 agents and brokers in the room. The knowledge base of the group about internet strategy runs the gambit from zero to somewhat informed. Key knows that his instruction will need to be presented so that each person will understand at his/her own level. The important thing will be the ability of the agent to implement the ideas.

With the precision of a skilled physician Key quickly begins to dissect the room with a series of direct questions and one-on-one interaction with several agents. He can sense the apprehension of some of the agents and makes it a point to assure them that they will not need to be technically inclined to benefit from the training.

The general concepts of creating internet visibility are covered in the first part of the course. Key makes sure the agents have a clear understanding of why. Once they understand the why, the critical steps involved in implementation will make sense.

The energy and excitement generated from Key’s teaching style is working its magic. The room’s occupants are in synch with where he is leading them. The earlier concepts start to build momentum as the students realize the potential power of the strategy. Each point is clearly demonstrated with real examples from the internet.

A well-timed question from a new agent about an important concept gives Key the perfect opportunity for breakthrough understanding. He pounces on the opportunity and becomes wildly animated. It is like someone hit a fast forward switch.

Key starts moving rapidly between several agents. Each time he stops, a rapid fire question is asked directly to that agent. After a very slight pause he tells the agent the right answer and has him/her say it. He quickly repeats the action with another agent. After a third time using the same technique, Key swoops in on the person with the original question. Key asks the original question back to the agent. The agent is able to answer his own question now. Key reacts with a very loud “YESSSSSSSS” and leaps into the air. The grand prize of understanding has been achieved.

The motion, excitement, and technique are so powerful that it has everyone in the class hypnotized by the building drama. The class is greatly relieved when the agent is able to provide the right answer. By building the tension and uncertainty about the answer to the question, Key was able to drag the entire class to the finish line together.

By 3:00 p.m. Key has been expending incredible amounts of energy for over 11 hours. He knows from experience that it is critical for the agents to put the ideas being presented into practice immediately after the training is completed. He also understands that many of the agents will not follow through.

The concepts have been understood, the tools to implement have been identified, and an action plan has been outlined. The agents that have the perseverance to act will be guaranteed success within the realm of internet visibility.

Much like a great musician or performer; Key has given completely of himself. His ability to teach relatively complex concepts effectively to non-technical people is a testimony to his skills as an instructor. The students leaving the training have the ability to change their own destiny. No one could ask for anything more.

Joe Nester is the broker/owner of Exit Agape Real Estate Services in West Columbia, South Carolina. Joe, an avid writer, has written over 50 blogs on varying topics about real estate. He is also contributing writer for Examiner.com and Hubpages.com

Joe is a firm believer in Key’s philosophy that it is important for businesses and individuals to tell their stories. Internet visibility with good content is a great way to build trust with potential clients.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Real Estate Benefit

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 23:17:06 -0700

June 7th, 2010 4:36 PM

Real Estate Benefit Program Helps Another Agape Senior Employee

On Tuesday, June 1st, Lyndsey Plyler became the second person to take advantage of the real estate benefit program that is available to all Agape Senior employees. The program was designed to help the employee navigate through the home buying or selling process by providing professional guidance for each step along the way.

Lyndsey started her journey to become a homeowner with one simple email to the EXIT Agape Real Estate Services office about five weeks ago. The email said, "I need help." This provided the team with a perfect opportunity to turn that simple request into a success story. Most Agape Senior employees spend every hour of every day helping our precious senior adults. The job is demanding and can be all consuming. To help and support the dedicated employees that provide that exceptional care is a privilege.

The benefit program provides experts in the professional services of real estate, insurance, legal, and finance. This team approach improves the process by providing clear channels of communication, quicker response time to problems, and, ultimately, a better experience for the client. The program also provides discounts and rebates that will save the employee over $1000.00 on a medium priced home.

The real estate benefits team, EXIT Agape Realty (real estate), Harrell & Martin (legal), GMM (insurance), and Crescent Moon Mortgage (finance) would like to congratulate Lyndsey on her new home and wish her great things for the future.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Employee Real Estate Benefit Program

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 27 May 2010 15:10:49 -0700

May 26th, 2010 12:31 AM

The road to achieving the American dream is often paved with hard work, knowledge, and professional guidance. Fortunately for Agape Senior employees a team of professionals has been assembled to help with that process.

The Legacy Care Real Estate Benefit program was introduced as an employee benefit several months ago. Legacy Care allows an Agape Senior employee the choice to use preferred providers in all or some of the professional services required to purchase, sell or refinance a home. The program includes service fee discounts and cash back rebates to the employee that is a principal in a real estate transaction.

We are proud to announce our first Legacy Care client, Sharon Davis, closed on her new home on Thursday, May 20. Sharon is a great example of today's modern well-informed consumer in the housing market. Sharon took advantage of a down payment assistance program that is being offered by Richland County. A requirement of the program is that the recipient attends classes that teach the home buyer the ropes of purchasing a first home.

Sharon was now armed with the information from her classes and she took the next step by putting the Legacy Care team to work for her. Legacy Care mortgage specialist Bill Oliver, worked with Sharon to pre-qualify her for a mortgage. Being pre-qualified before looking for a home is a smart way to narrow your searches to the homes in your price range. It also provides for a much stronger offer to the seller when submitting a contract with a pre-approval letter from a lender.

Catherine Thornton a certified first-time buyer agent with Exit Agape, then began working with Sharon to find her the perfect home. The services of a good buyer's agent are invaluable during this part of the process. The agent will evaluate potential properties for current value, submit and negotiate the purchase contract, coordinate the inspections, and negotiate the repairs from the inspections.

Once the purchase contract is accepted by all parties, it is then sent to our preferred real estate attorney, Jeremy Martin. Jeremy has been working with Exit Agape for over two years and was involved in the majority of Agape Village closings. Jeremy performs all of the necessary legal work to ensure the property is titled properly and that there are no liens or claims against the property. He also performs the closing, ensuring all documents are properly signed and recorded.

Communication between all the parties involved in getting a real estate transaction to closing is crucial. We believe that our team approach in providing professional services is a real advantage to the employee. It was gratifying to see how excited Sharon was on the day of closing at our office in West Columbia. The entire Legacy Care team would like to thank Sharon for giving us the opportunity to help.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

West Columbia Land for Investment Opportunity

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Mon, 24 May 2010 11:54:51 -0700

May 24th, 2010 11:19 AM

Nice 4.2 Acres wooded parcel close in. Large brick home and out buldings included. This property would make a great investment. House and two mobile homes already on property. Also barn outbuilding to the rear of property. Call today for more information.

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]	West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]	West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]
West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]	West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale	Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

Columbia SC Real Estate Nightmare or Nirvanna

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 16 May 2010 18:35:07 -0700

May 16th, 2010 6:05 PM

When is the last time you had a real estate closing that was on schedule? Do you ever get a response from a bank in a timely manner on a short sale? When your buyer clients are getting down payment assistance, tax credits, and seller paid closing costs, do they think they should be getting a better deal? Do your seller clients believe there property is unique and should not be affected by a down market? Do you hold your breath every time an appraisal is ordered for a property under contract? Do you wonder how the new HUD is easier to understand? Do you find it interesting that third party addendum on foreclosures are often longer than the sales contract and usually conflict with it? Isn't it funny that a lot of people think that you can work for free?

If you are about ready to throw yourself off a tall skyscraper, hold on. Think about the client that told you that they would never have been able to get through the sale of their property without your help. Remember the couple that just moved to your area and said that you really saved the day finding the perfect home in the perfect neighborhood. Can you remember the feeling of accomplishment when you helped a first time buyer realize the American dream? What about the satisfaction of resolving a housing problem for a senior client?

Fortunately, or unfortunately the nature of the beast seems to be incredible highs and incredible lows. Staying professional and focusing on the positive can be a good remedy for coping in today's market.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes [under $125K]	Columbia Median Homes [$125K - $250K]	Columbia Upscale Homes [$250K - $550K]
Columbia Luxury Homes [$550K - $1M]	Columbia Million $ Homes [over $1M]	Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Reverse Mortgage for Purchase Could be Good Solution for a Senior Home Owner

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 11:55:52 -0700

April 25th, 2010 12:23 PM

Most people today know something about a traditional reverse mortgage but have never heard of a reverse mortgage for purchase. This innovative product could be in certain situations a good solution for a senior that would like to downsize or do a parallel move.

The reverse mortgage for purchase allows a senior to purchase a primary residence by putting a certain percentage of the sales price as a down payment, usually between 40 and 50 percent, and having the reverse mortgage for purchase pay off the balance.

The advantage of this type of mortgage is that it could allow the senior to get into a new property without sinking all of the equity from the old home into the deal. Once they closed on the new home it would be the same as a traditional reverse mortgage. There would be no house payment as long as they lived in the home. And each month the interest would accrue against the equity.

Below are some guidelines that apply to a reverse mortgage for purchase.

•1. Who is eligible - everyone in the home must be 62 or older

•2. What is income requirement - No income requirement

•3. What is min. credit score - Credit Reports are not required

•4. You can use the Reverse Mortgage to PURCHASE a home

•5. NO PAYMENTS required

•6. Everyone must go thru Counseling for the Reverse Mortgage first

As with any financial decision you should always get the advice of a professional. In addition to using a professional that is familiar with this type of mortgage, the reverse mortgage also requires a counseling session for the principals involved in the transaction.

Bill Oliver with Crescent Moon Mortgage in Columbia is a broker that is familiar with the reverse mortgage for purchase. You can contact Bill through his web-site.

You can also get more information about reverse mortgages in general by visiting the US Dept of Housing and Urban Development site.

West Columbia Exit Agape Real Estate Supports Rhythm on the River

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:41:46 -0700

April 20th, 2010 5:24 PM

Close your eyes and imagine the golden light at sunset. You can hear the children playing in the grass that surrounds the amphitheater. You feel a gentle breeze from the Congaree River as the water silently glides downstream. You see the Gervais Street Bridge with its perfectly symmetrical arches stretching across the river to downtown Columbia. The downtown glass and steel buildings are shimmering from the reflected light of the setting sun. The music starts and seems to be in perfect harmony with the people and surroundings.

Open your eyes. You are attending the popular Rhythm on the River concert series put on by the West Metro Chamber of Commerce. The ten-week series is sponsored by local businesses in Lexington County and is free to the public. Each year the concert series features a wide variety of music that will appeal to every taste. The popularity of the series has grown each year, along with the musical talent.

EXIT Agape Real Estate Services in West Columbia is proud to be a weekend sponsor for the popular concert series for the third year in a row. Agape Senior is also returning as a presenting sponsor for the whole series. This event is perfect for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors, socialize with friends and hear some very talented musicians in a relaxed atmosphere.

For more information on the series and a complete schedule of bands and sponsors, visit Rhythm on the River.

If you were ever told by your parents that the best things in life are free, you can bet that in this case they were right.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Properties for Sale in West Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as West Columbia Startup Homes, West Columbia Median Homes, West Columbia Upscale Homes, West Columbia Luxury Homes, and West Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in West Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists. (803) 454-3504

West Columbia Real Estate Can Potential Clients Find You Today?

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 20:11:07 -0700

April 18th, 2010 8:14 PM

Sometimes enlightenment can be swift and unexpected like a sudden breeze on a perfectly calm day. For a brief moment in time you experience perfect understanding with brilliant clarity. If you are a visionary these moments allow you to see the future.

This kind of understanding is usually only possible if there is a foundation of knowledge that has been acquired over time. The trainer helps to build the foundation that ultimately will allow the student to experience the deeper insight.

For the past year Key Yessaad has been building a foundation of knowledge about internet strategy for the agents and brokers of Exit Realty in the Midlands of South Carolina, Key, one of the premier internet strategists in the country, is mercenary about providing training that can lead to an agent's verifiable success on the internet.

On April 15, 2010 Key rolled out his new workshop-style, advanced blogging class for over 20 brokers and agents at Agape Village in West Columbia. I had arranged to meet with Key after the training to discuss some new web-site and blog ideas upon which I was working.

Later that evening, at an outdoor table of a local restaurant, we chatted about the day's activities. We had no idea that we were about to witness a small action by our waiter that is having a profound impact on real estate and the real estate agent.

Our waiter, Cale, who looked to be in his early twenties, was friendly and intelligent. Each time he would come to our table we would engage him in conversation to learn more about him. Cale turned out to be a recent graduate of USC in Columbia and had majored in biology. His desire was to complete his PhD. Key encouraged him to complete it as soon as possible.

A short while later Cale returned to our table to check on us, and he began to inquire about what we did professionally. Key explained that he trained real estate agents to compete effectively on-line and that he had completed training in West Columbia earlier in the day. I told Cale that Key was an expert on creating Google visibility. "In fact", I said, "You can just Google web trainer with no location and he will probably be in first position on page one."

Instantly Cale reached into his pocket and pulled out his smart phone with the swiftness of a gun-slinger out of the Old West. After several short taps on the screen of the phone, Cale looked up at us. I could tell by his expression that he was impressed. Cale said, "I have never met anyone famous before."

What we had just witnessed was significant. Key had just trained on that exact concept earlier in the day. An episode of the hit comedy "How I Met Your Mother" titled "Lorenzo Von Matterhorn" was used to illustrate the point to the class. Instant verification of an agent's credibility and visibility is not only possible but happening everyday. I had just been afforded a glimpse into the future of real estate; I was glad that I had the foundation training to recognize the importance of what our waiter had just done.

Columbia SC Palmetto Trail Adventure

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 20:48:29 -0700

Columbia SC Palmetto Trail Adventure April 8th, 2010 9:15 PM

Life is strange. It seems that whenever you learn something new or read about a particular event or experience, it has a way of working its way into your own reality. The latest example of this phenomenon for me happened when I finished reading A Walk in the Woods' by Bill Bryson. The book was a hilarious account of the author's attempt to walk the Appalachian Trail. I was very intrigued by the fact that Mr. Bryson just decided one day that he was going to attempt such an ambitious hike and that for the most part he carried through with the plan.

About two weeks after finishing the book I was having a conversation with Mike, the minister of my church. He was telling me about a hike he had completed recently. Mike said he had hiked a 6.5 mile section of the Palmetto Trail from Peak, SC, to Pomaria, SC; I had a vague recollection of reading something years earlier about a trail that stretched across the state of South Carolina. Immediately the wheels started spinning in my head. I could be the Bill Bryson of the Palmetto Trail. I could walk each section and then recount my adventures to my adoring fans: the Today Show, Jay Leno, maybe even PBS.

The next day I was on Google getting all of the pertinent information to start my adventure. I found it very interesting that one of the sections of the trail actually crosses over the grounds of the State Capitol in Columbia where I reside.Mike had mentioned that the section he hiked did not have any real scenic vistas since it went through mostly bottom land. I was not sure what bottom land was, but it sounded okay for my first attempt at the trail.

Not being a person that likes to go into remote areas by myself, I had to rally the troops on the home front. I have been known to get lost in a subdivision after making two turns and then spending the next 30 minutes trying to get back out. I needed someone with me that could get us back out alive. My almost fifteen-year-old son and my ever skeptical wife were likely suspects. I really had to sell the adventure side of the hike and then throw in the educational element for good measure.

My son, Drew, had the brilliant plan to share our adventure with one of his high school buddies. This was perfect: another kid violently torn from his PS3 and forced to walk in the wilderness. How could I resist?

The morning of the hike was a gorgeous spring day with the temp around 58 degrees. The forecast was calling for the low 90s by the afternoon. Only in South Carolina can it go from 58 to 90 in three hours. The trip to the trail head was uneventful except for my attempt to turn east from the main highway instead of the clearly marked west on the map and the big green sign that pointed to Pomaria the other direction. With disaster narrowly avoided the adventure continued.

We arrived at the first trail head, which was a small parking lot next to a trestle bridge that spanned the Broad River. This was starting to get exciting. The old iron bridge formed part of the trail. I looked at my companions to try and gauge their excitement. Let's just say it was getting exciting for me. We left one car and continued the trip to the second trail head. This turned out to be a grass parking lot behind Wilson's Grocery, bait, beer, gas, and stuff store.

After reading a brief history of the town, and about the rail line that formed the trail on the information board we finally started our hike. There was nothing but nature for the next 6.5 miles. I don't know if you have ever walked on a railroad bed that has been converted to a trail before, but we quickly found that the gravel used for the bed made for a challenging walk. The trail itself was perfectly flat. I marveled at the fact that no matter what the land was doing beside the trail, the actual trail was always perfectly flat. I tried to imagine designing the perfect shoe that would adjust to the infinite number of angles my foot would contort to on each step in the gravel.

Certain sections of the trail had more dirt and grass built up, and the gravel was more embedded in the soil. These were welcome sections along with the smooth boards that spanned the 13 or so trestles along the trail. It was easy to imagine an old steam engine in the 1800s puffing and hissing along the narrow corridor. I couldn't help wondering about the men that actually built the line. I could almost hear them say after the track crossed the same river for the third time, "Really, do you think this is the best route?"

We did not encounter another soul on the trail, although there was one other vehicle parked in the grassy lot where we started. I proudly informed my son and his friend Hunter, that they were probably now in a very elite minority for having hiked this trail. I don't believe I heard any response from this proclamation.

We did encounter some wildlife along the trail. A large bird that I quickly identified as a Turkey Hawk flew across the trail, and I was told in unison that there was no such species. We also had some quail half scare us to death as several took off just inches from where we were walking. I have heard helicopters take off with less noise.

All in all I was pleased with the adventure. It took us approximately 2 ½ hours to complete the hike. All of the surrounding woods and grass lands were in full bloom, and the brilliant colors of the wisteria against the green backdrop were beautiful.

I had noticed a small diner on our way into the town of Pomaria earlier and I suggested we reward our accomplishment with a cheeseburger. This time I got a reaction from the teenagers.

We arrived at the M&N Café and ordered cheeseburger baskets and cold sodas. The food was delicious after the long hike; the French fries were especially crisp and fresh. The M&N is a family-run restaurant. Two of the owner's daughters were running the place the day we stopped. The friendly service combined with good old American food is worth the stop.

After proudly announcing to our server that we had just completed the trail, she said we were only the second group that she had ever met that hiked it. I quickly looked across at my son to see if he had grasped the significance of that statement. I got the universal eye roll that told me all was well with the world.

West Columbia 24/7 Health & Fitness Gym in Agape Commons Expands Services for Patrons

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 22:28:27 -0700

Introducing...

Jamie Smith as our staffed personal

trainer! He is a resident of Lexington,

SC and is a NASM Certified

Personnal Trainer and owner of

BodySmith Personal Training. Jamie

has worked with most of the major

gyms around town working as both a trainer and nutrition consultant. He has been training clients for 5 years in all forms of fitness ranging from: bodybuilding, power lifting, weight loss, overall fitness, flexibility, injury rehabilitation, and nutrition consulting. His clients include men and women ranging in age from 15-73.

Jamie offers both half hour and hour long sessions. Half hours run $20 per session and hours run $30 per session. His schedule is very flexible with advanced notice. If interested, contact Jamie directly at (803) 466-5953 or via email: BodySmithTraining@Gmail.com.

The 24/7 Health & Fitness Center is located at 3681 Leaphart Rd in West Columbia. The Agape Commons commercial complex is right in front of Agape Village. For information and membership stop by Agape Medical Mart. Or call 803-939-0757

West Columbia Exit Agape Real Estate Supports Salkehatchie Summer Youth Program

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 21:58:06 -0700

March 22nd, 2010 10:10 PM

I am standing in a room surrounded by crazy people. It was the summer of 2008. I had just returned from a tour of three extremely dilapidated homes. I knew that it would not be possible to complete the planned repairs to these homes in a week.

I had volunteered to help with a summer youth program called Salkehatchie. Some of you may be familiar with the program. My intention was to have my13 year old son involved. I figured it would be a great experience for him. He would be working with kids his age. I wanted him to turn off the computer for a week and join the real world. The purpose of the program was to repair homes for the poor and elderly.

I told Mike, the minister in charge of the program, that I would bring my son to the church early each morning so that he could go with his group to their assigned house. I had also agreed to lend a hand for a few hours if they needed me. I figured I would be able to run an errand or two for the group, maybe help throw some paint on a wall, maybe help clean trash out of a yard. I really did not have the time to get very involved.

About a week before the start of the program, Mike asked if I would like to go tour the three houses that had been chosen for our area. He said that the tour would be on Sat morning when the kids were scheduled to arrive from Greenville. I said of course, I am in real estate. I love looking at houses.

Now it is Saturday morning in early July, twenty five teenagers and ten adults have just piled off of a church bus, and are standing on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere. There is nothing but sand and scrub oak in every direction. The temperature is already in the nineties. It is the kind of day in South Carolina that you start to sweat the minute you walk outside.

From where I am standing there is no house in sight. Mike starts to walk into the brush and our whole group just follows him in. After walking a short distance our group is now standing in front of a mobile home that is in serious danger of being swallowed up by its surroundings. Mike knocks on the door.

The front door opens and a woman that appears to be in her forties steps out onto a wooden front porch. The porch looks like it may collapse at any second. She has food stains on her blouse and is not comfortable being stared at by our large group. Mike introduced her to our group. Her name was Mary.

We are invited to walk through the home to have a look at what repairs will be required. Everywhere I looked as I walked around the trailer had another problem. I walked through the front door and the heat and smell from inside the trailer almost knocked me over. Apparently the AC was not working. The carpet was filthy and appeared to be the source of the smell.

The inside of the home was in as bad shape as the outside. A small group of kids had gathered in the guest bathroom. There was a large hole in the floor that went through to the ground. Mary was telling the volunteers how an opossum would come up through the hole from time to time. I was really starting to doubt my decision to get involved with this project.

The next two houses we toured that morning had just as many required repairs as the first house. When we finally returned to the church, Mike called a meeting of the adults.

Mike read the list of repairs planned for each house. I am thinking there must be some kind of back up plan. There must be a gang of real contactors that go in at night and finish everything that the kids will start during the day.

Mike asked us if we had a preference as to which house we wanted to work on. I was hoping none of them was going to be one of the choices. I looked around the room at the other adult volunteers. I expected to see some other expressions of disbelief. What I saw was a kind of calm determination within the group. I wanted to yell. ARE YOU PEOPLE CRAZY? This thing can not be done. I have done house renovation. Every time you attempt to repair one thing it exposes three other problems.

It was at that point that I realized my initial plan of sort of helping from the sidelines was not going to be an option. The people in that room were depending on each other to be 100% committed to the project. The adult volunteers from Greenville had taken time off from their jobs to come to Columbia to work in the scorching July heat and than sleep on the floor of the church at night.

Mike probably knew that when he invited me I would eventually see the light. I knew at that moment that the right choice for me was to commit to the project. I had not made any arrangements about being absent from my job, or any other preparation, but none of that mattered. The most important thing I could do in the next week was right in front of me.

The next five days of my life were completely consumed by this thing called Salkahatchie. The group of strangers came together and worked as a team to accomplish the impossible. I would never have believed how meaningful this experience was going to be to me.

What was taking place during the week was more than just repairing homes. We were connecting with people, changing attitudes and transforming lives. I like to think that we made life a little better for the people that lived in the homes. Maybe gave them some hope for the future. I had the added benefit of reconnecting with my teenage son.

Sometimes when you least expect it you find exactly what you are searching for. I did not plan on being personally involved in the Salkahatchie program. When I saw the horrible conditions the people were living in. It became important to respond to that need. The size of the job scared me. I could not think how it would be possible to finish the homes in time.

But each day our group grew a little stronger, and each day we were able to accomplish more. It is amazing the amount of work 15 sets of hands that are focused on a task can accomplish in a day. We had created leverage by teaching our young volunteers how to paint, lay a floor, or how to use a hammer.

Exit Agape Real Estate Services is a proud supporter of the 2010 Salkehatchie Summer Youth Program in West Columbia. Mentoring, coaching, and the improvement of the overall team are all philosophies that EXIT REALTY is committed to. EXIT REALTY believes the agent is the most valuable asset of any real estate company. Creating a future for the agent is our top priority.

West Columbia Real Estate: Joe Nester Presents Strategic Blogging for Businesses to West Metro Rotary Club.

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 20:33:36 -0700

March 18th, 2010 9:08 PM

Friday March 19^th Joe Nester will be presenting a program for the West Metro Rotary Club titled Strategic Blogging for Businesses. The West Metro Rotary meets every Friday morning at The Clarion Inn Columbia-Airport hotel for a breakfast meeting that starts a 7:30 a.m. Rotary is an international service organization that contributes funds and volunteers to local and worldwide causes. Find out more about West Metro Rotary.

West Columbia Real Estate: Local Exit Offices Attend Training in Charlotte NC

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:47:30 -0800

March 7th, 2010 11:25 PM

On March 4 2010, the EXIT broker owners of the Carolinas held a training meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina. The broker meeting preceded the agent awards day that was being held on March 5 and that would recognize the top producing agents and offices throughout the region. The general consensus of the brokers in attendance was that the market was starting to show signs of recovery in most areas of the region. The training portion of the meeting was, as usual, top notch.

Key Yessaad, an incredibly forward thinking internet strategist, once again challenged the brokers to look at web strategy and internet presence in a completely new light. Key is no stranger to the Exit brokers in the Midlands. In January of 2010 he completed his fifth all day training seminar for the six local EXIT offices. Key's passion and enthusiasm for creating a positive environment for agents to thrive on the internet is without compare. Key's message and strategy is simple and profound at the same time: "An internet strategy is about taking care of the client."

Key was followed by exceptional speaker and coach, Bob McKinnon. Bob delivered an inspirational talk drawing on dramatic personal events from his life. For 35 years Bob McKinnon operated a five office firm in Southern California and was a pioneer in launching the Century 21® brand in 1972. Since then he has become a professional real estate coach and world class speaker. Bob was the keynote speaker at the EXIT Realty International Convention in Dallas, Texas. Since his introduction to the EXIT story, he has dedicated all of his efforts under the direction of Steve Morris, founder of EXIT Realty.

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]	West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]	West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]
West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]	West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale	Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

West Columbia Real Estate Benefit Program Announced for Agape Senior Employees

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 20:47:02 -0800

February 28th, 2010 9:19 PM

Exit Agape Real Estate Services announces a brand new real estate benefit program called Legacy Care. The program provides multiple discounts and rebates to Agape Senior employees when involved in a real estate transaction. The program which is believed to be the first of its kind in South Carolina provides professional services, information, and on-going education about the home buying or selling process for direct employees and immediate family members of employees.

The Legacy Care program provides significant savings to qualified participants by bundling all of the services a buyer or seller would typically use in a real estate transaction. Each provider has committed to discounts and or rebates to the principal involved in the transaction. An employee can also choose to use an individual provider within the program and realize the savings for that one segment of the transaction.

The goal of the program is to provide the best professional services along with relevant information to every participant. Agape Senior employees will now have the resources readily available to make informed decisions when buying, selling, or refinancing real estate.

Find out more about Legacy Care

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]	West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]	West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]
West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]	West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale	Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

Cayce SC: Edenwood Homes are Good Value in Columbia Market

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 19:59:04 -0800

February 27th, 2010 7:38 PM

Edenwood is a subdivision of approximately 450 homes in Cayce South Carolina. The homes were mostly built in the 1960's. Brick construction, hardwood floors throughout, and large shady lots are common characteristics in Edenwood. There is an active neighborhood association that meets on a regular basis with board members, and twice a year with the general membership. You can find out more information about what Edenwood has to offer on the neighborhood site.

Below are sales statistics compiled from the consolidated multiple listing service for 2008 and 2009. Edenwood has always been a good value for families looking for well constucted homes in an established neighborhood. The downturn in real estate caused by the mortgage crises has impacted most communties throughout the Midlands. The Edenwood community is no exception with fewer sales compared to 2006 and 2007. I believe the community is still undervalued and will have a strong recovery when the market improves.

The same numbers of homes were sold in the year 2008 as were sold in 2009 in Edenwood. Seven total homes were sold in each year. These figures do not include (For Sale by Owner) transactions. Below are the averages for both years. As you can see by the numbers both the average list price, and the average sold price declined from 2008 to 2009. The days on market increased from 98 days in 2008 to 114 days in 2009. Homes on average suffered about a 5% decline in price, and on average it took about 15% longer to sell the homes. There was approximately a 12.5% decline in the price per square foot also.

2008 2009

Avg List $141,121 Avg List $136,414

Avg Sq Ft Listed 1874 Avg Sq Ft Listed 2040

Avg Days on Market 98 Avg Days on Market 114

Avg Sold Price $134,486 Avg Sold Price 127,843

Avg Price per Sq Ft List $75 Avg Price per Sq Ft List $67

Avg Price per Sq Ft Sold $72 Avg Price per Sq Ft Sold $63

There are as of Feb 27^th 2010 eleven homes for sale in Edenwood. The average square feet of the homes is 1771. The average days on market is 156, and the average square foot price listed is $69.00

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]	West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]	West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]
West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]	West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale	Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

219 Patio Drive Columbia SC: Beautiful patio home in Lost Creek Community

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:47:09 -0800

Posted Under: Home Selling in South Carolina | February 15, 2010 11:32 AM | 17 views | No comments

This patio home located at 219 Patio Drive in the Lost Creek subdivision is a special property. Lost Creek is located just outside Harbison State Forest and is surrounded by nature. The tall brick wall that encloses the back and side yard of the home creates a tranquil private courtyard area to garden or just relax. This home was the former model home for the community and has only been lived in since 2000. Everything about this home is geared toward a low maintenance carefree lifestyle. The all brick construction, one year old roof, and 1.5 year old HVAC system ensure the buyer will not have any major expenses for many years to come. With everything on the main level you will never have to worry about lugging groceries up stairs. The home features many nice upgrades and has been meticulously maintained. The two car garage is heated and cooled and could easily be converted to game room or other living space. The living room features a large atrium with towering live plants. The sun-room sitting area off of master bedroom overlooks courtyard and has access to screen porch. You must see this unique home to appreciate. Take virtual tour.

Saluda North Carolina Home For Sale

Joe Nester (Exit Agape Real Estate Services) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 22:27:04 -0800

January 24th, 2010 11:06 PM

567 Greeville St Saluda, NC

Heart Pine Flooring
Antique Brick Fireplace
Open Floor Plan
Heart Pine Custom Kitchen Cabinets
Hand Painted Italian Tile Back splash
Stainless Steel Appliances
Central Vacuum
Whole House Generator
Exposed Beams
Gorgeous Landscaping & Gardens

This is a one of a kind custom home in the quaint town of Saluda North Carolina. Find out more about this gorgeous home and contact information to view.