Tina's Blog

Christmas in the Burg

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:52:31 -0600

The 2008 holiday season in Orangeburg is in full swing!

Dr. Leo Twiggs, S.C. State professor emeritus and distinguished artist-in-residence at Claflin University was nominated to decorate a Christmas ornament for the tree at the White House for the state of South Carolina this past September! The White House sent a six-inch-round silver ornament to each artist to decorate. The design had to display a red, white and blue theme and represent the artist's state or region.

Twiggs design is of an American flag that flows around the ornament to form the letters "SC" on one side and a silhouette of the state painted in indigo blue with crescent moon and palmetto tree on the other. Some areas were left unpainted to reflect the lights from the tree.

In 2001 Twiggs also designed an ornament for the White House tree that was a miniature replica of the dilapidated Benjamin Mays House in Greenwood County. The ornament received national attention, and the Mays House was eventually moved to the city of Greenwood and restored. Way to GO!!

Orangeburg's Christmas parade was this past Sunday. A variety of participants were led by grand marshal Thomas B. Eklund, an Orangeburg resident who has dedicated his life to working with children and served as principal at Rivelon Elementary School and executive director of the Orangeburg Area Boys and Girls Club. Eklund was honored by the Kiwanis Club of Orangeburg as its 2005 Orangeburg Citizen of the Year. "A Storybook Christmas" was this year's theme and began at 3 p.m. Sunday, in downtown Orangeburg.

Don't forget to recycle your Christmas tree! The Grinding of the Greens is an annual event, with drop off points at solid waste collection sites located throughout the county and curbside pickup within the City limits.

www.JustCallTina.com to search for homes available within the Orangeburg market, or to contact your Relocation REALTOR...

Open House Event!

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:57:54 -0500

Open House - November 2, 2008

2:00 - 4:00 PM

ERA Wilder Realty, Inc - Orangeburg Office Listings

ERA Wilder Realty in Orangeburg, SC will be offering you the opportunity to check what the local Real Estate market has to offer this Sunday!

Agents will be offering their homes for preview from 2-4 pm (check the Sunday paper for listings in the Home Showcase insert)...there will be plenty of choices or SEE THEM ALL!

I will have three homes available from my listing inventory...a new construction:

1181 Huntington at $209,900 is the best buy in the neighborhood! Seller will work with buyers to make this one work...has a fresh/clean interior; 2 car attached and a single detached garage w/workshop! Sunroom; formal DR; family room; new carpet, landscaping redone this week:

4628 Edgewood in Robin Hill Subdivision is the newest on the market...with open floor plan, Berber carpet; underground fence in backyard for pets; large deck; playhouse and 2.38 ac lot at $179,900 you can't go wrong:

Heartfelt Home -

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:46:46 -0500

Located in Robin Hill Subdivision this 1902 sq ft home offers a tremendous value and nice amenities for entertaining. Open floor plan with cathedral ceiling in greatroom; fireplace and a large deck off the back. Wired for surround sound on the interior and also the deck! Berber carpet and laminate flooring in nice up to date colors; roofing replaced 10/08 with architectural shingles; playhouse remains!

An underground fence provides security for your pets without limiting yard space. Alarm system. Trey ceiling in breakfast nook and wood trey ceiling in master bedroom!

This home has a lot to offer at $179,900 and has been well maintained-you won't be disappointed!

Neighborhood: Robin Hill
Lot Size: 2.38 acres
Type: Single Family Residential for Sale
Floors: Single Story
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2
Square Feet: 1902
Year Built: 1990
School District: District Five

Rose of the South

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 12:28:54 -0500

Thursday afternoon brought City officials and guests to the 21 year old Edisto Memorial Gardens for the dedication of the new Noisette Rose Garden.

What has been called the "Rose of the South" is now at home in Orangeburg's Edisto Memorial Gardens. While Noisette roses are not easy to come by, 54 varieties of the ever-blooming rose can be enjoyed in the Orangeburg gardens, thanks to a joint project between the City of Orangeburg and the South Carolina Rose Society, along with the Garden Club of South Carolina.

Forty-four varieties, including Rose Moschata and Old Blush, are included in the rose bed. Ten other varieties are on wrought iron trellises, where they will grow as large as 30 feet tall.

"The Noisette rose is the only rose that originated in North America, and we are honored to feature her in our community.

For additional information on other Orangeburg SC areas of interest visit www.JustCallTina.com

The Wilds of SC

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:54:29 -0500

When we relocated from New England 18 years ago, I was terrified that a ferocious alligator or deadly swamp snake would claim my son Nathan.

He grew up loving snakes, frogs, and above all ALLIGATORS! I didn't ask questions when he and his friends would return from a hot, sweaty camp out in Santee. Some things a mother is just more comfortable not knowing about. He returned recently after a weekend in a tent, and since he is now over 18 - he certainly doesn't need Mommas permission when he wants to hang w/the guys. I simply kept quiet.

Then I saw this posted in the newspaper...my son is now attending college in Cali and is facing creatures of a different sort these days, but I couldn't help but smile thinking about how he would have LOVED to have been in on this adventure. South Carolina is still teeming with all the excitement that nature has to offer.

It's what I count on to bring him home when he finishes his education.

After an entire day of patrolling, tracking, wrestling and shooting, some men from Elloree are still running on adrenaline after killing a 13.5-foot alligator at Stumphole Landing in the first days of South Carolina's first gator hunt since the 1960s.

Fall = Fair Time in Orangeburg!

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:47:08 -0500

After the Rose Festival in the spring, the Orangeburg County Fair offers the next best opportunity for area residents to gather after a long hot summer. Providing a great time to eat, play and catch up with what's new in the community.

Area businesses (your Neighborhood Realtor included) will be on hand to meet and greet in their respective booths, along with civic groups and local schools. My favorite section is always the art displays, and then the crafts and ribbon winners.

With corn dog, kiddie rides & games enjoyed on the midway in much the same way for much of the fair's traditional 98-year history, a new web site brings this nostalgic event up to date. We are ON-LINE!

The fair will run from Sept. 29 to Oct. 5 this year. Gates open on Monday at 5 pm w/regular admission prices (Adults $6, Children 6-12 $4, and under 6 free) and runs Tues - Sat 12:00 Noon to 10:30 pm. Parking is free, with additional discounts available throughout the week, visit www.orangeburgcountyfair.org for an updated schedule.

Don't forget (my personal favorite): Lunch at the Fair

Free Lunch Period Parking and Admission

Tuesday, September 30 through Friday, October 3, anyone desiring to eat lunch on the Fairgrounds will be admitted FREE - PROVIDED THAT THEY DRIVE IN AT THE LOWER GATE ON MAGNOLIA BETWEEN 12:00 NOON AND 2:00 P.M. Cars will be parked in a designated area and will be impounded and admission WILL BE CHARGED if not removed by 2:00 p.m.

For additional info on area events in Orangeburg SC visit www.JustCallTina.com

Reduced to the Ridiculous?

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:17:20 -0500

What's up with this new construction in Orangeburg, SC?

Reduced to $120,000 this 3 BR 2 BA home is ready for you TODAY!!! With 1300 sq ft of brand new, never before lived in, appliances in place...you can't go wrong.

With neutral colors, updated features, a small deck in a well established neighborhood it is possible to feel like you have come home to the best deal in a VERY long time. There have been many price reductions lately...but this is the best by far...the house needs nothing but your finishing touches to make it home.

Check this one out today...If you haven't seen it yet...do so...if you already have...TAKE ANOTHER LOOK!

Local Industry WOWS local KAB board

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:45:52 -0500

Albemarle Corporation invited Orangeburg County's Keep America Beautiful board members to tour their latest project...a walking trail and outdoor classroom that they are constructing on acreage adjacent to their Orangeburg SC plant.

Not far along the trail they did run into a local 'critter' a five foot canebrake rattlesnake! While the trail is patroled to ensure safety for the students and visitors it was very apparent that the wildlife is indeed protected and in place on this site. There was also a whitetail deer spotted further along.

YOU ARE HERE!

You can't get lost...there are kiosks along the trails with maps to help you identify the area.

Learning kiosks provide valuable information on local plans & wildlife along the trails...(desgined by David Andrews, employeed at Albemarle)...there is also an outdoor classroom complete with overhead fans for students to take a break and discuss the sights.

While Albemarle's Orangeburg plant has been focusing on 'green' initiatives for over 20 years, this recent accomplishment is a valuable asset to our community. Albemarle demonstrates a corporate commitment to environmental stewardship in many ways...in addition to being a member of the Wildlife Habitat Council, they are also active in the American Chemistry Council's Responsible Care program.

Take time to visit Albemarles 100 Acre Wood trail...you will be amazed at what you find along the way...

Move-in Ready & Priced to SELL! $228,700

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:18:52 -0500

Not your typical ranch with the unique touches throughout this property...obvious as soon as you enter the home with this charming mural!

This 3 BR 2 BA home has a double attached garage w/single detached garage/storage as well! Wrought iron fencing for back yard w/charming arbor to walkway.

Hardwood floors in wonderful condition....updated kitchen with tile flooring

You simply will not need to do a thing to this home...the kitchen is bright and clean - updated-ready for you to begin. The bathrooms are in the same pristine condition. Carpeting, flooring and paint all in excellent condition. A rare find in todays market.

Everyone is looking for a kitchen that doesn't need to be remodeled! And you have one here...

A nice family room w/hardwood flooring, FP and ceiling fan...as well as a sunroom off the back that could double as an office...

This is absolutely one of the best buys in Orangeburg...

2007 Construction Located in City of Orangeburg! A Rare Find...

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 18:05:01 -0500

Located on a corner lot, this 1260 sq ft bungalow offers neutral colors, stove, refrigerator and dishwasher. Enjoy the pleasure that comes from owning a home you need do nothing to but decorate to suit your syle. Add some roses, ferns and shrubs and this will be a charmer!! Not far from Edisto Memorial Garden - use that for your inspiration.

Neighborhood: City of Orangeburg
Lot Size: .20
Type: Single Family Residential for Sale
Floors: Single Story
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2
Square Feet: 1260
Year Built: 2007
School District: Orangeburg District Five

Festival Of Roses

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:56:58 -0500

The weather was perfect this year for the annual event held in Edisto Memorial Gardens. Roses were in abundance throughout the gardens and the visitors enjoyed food, crafts, dancing and a variety of exhibits. Vendors were lined up along Riverbank Drive and the street was closed to traffice throughout the three day festival. Locals stroll along and enjoy meeting up with people they may not have seen all through the winter...I enjoyed seeing how the daughter of my sons ex-girlfriend (Shelsea was like another daughter to me) had grown since I saw her last ...check out the CURLS!!Then of course there were the roses! An unrivaled display! All colors and varieties...a joy to behold and the scent! ERA Wilder Realty had

our booth manned for the three days and agents enjoyed meeting new and old friends and the latest trends in the real estate market as well as offering a variety of handouts to our visitors. One EXTRA SPECIAL VISITOR FROM CALI - my son Nathan... From fans, magazines, crayons, candy, gum, and litter bags to pencils and mortgage info few walked away empty handed.

New Price for a New Construction

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:35:26 -0500

Looking for a brand new house that is priced right? This is it - no question. With 1300 sq ft, 3 BR 2 BA and the confidence that comes with the purchase of a new construction you can't go wrong. Located in a well established neighborhood, vinyl siding, deck and lovely mature trees.

A fabulous purchase at $125,000...call on this home today. The lovely neutral colors will allow you to move right in without making any changes to the decor. Appliances, updated fixtures and new flooring, a deck.

Well established trees allow you the luxury of a new construction while feeling like you have been here for years. For a look at the visual tour visit www.JustCallTina.com the interior will delight!

Extended Family? Need Extra Living Space? This is your home!!

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 02 May 2008 08:48:36 -0500

Located in a well established neighborhood this property can comfortably provide additional private living suite for extended family needs. Primary living space offers approx 2000 sq ft with additional 1391 sq ft for extended family. Whether you need an in-law apartment or privacy for a returning adult child, this home can fulfill that need. The lower level has been renovated to include an additional kitchen, LR, BA and two bedrooms!

All of this with a view of pond from your large screened porch.

For more information on this property or other homes available in Orangeburg visit www.JustCallTina.com

North Shore Receives NEW Name?

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 16:16:50 -0500

The North Shore Villas and Marina waterfront development on Lake Marion is now North Shore at Lake Marion - or so it has been announced. Not a great difference but it reflects better the future plans for the project. What this means to me is a change in all my ads....and some awesome real estate opportunities for the future!

The Shuler Group (my daughter works there) annnounced the renaming of the Summerton development, citing the new name as better capturing the concept of the property.

Located on the banks of Lake Marion, North Shore at Lake Marion, the private 60-acre gated development will include 84 waterfront condominium villas, 42 townhomes and 34 single-family homesites.

North Shore at Lake Marion is currently scheduled to be completed by spring 2010, with condominium villas available by spring 2008.

The Shuler Group is a real estate development and venture management firm based in Orangeburg.

The company currently has more than 250 multifamily units, either recently completed, under construction or in the planning stages.

Yellow For Remembrance

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:59:55 -0500

Offering neutral colors; updated fixtures; the convenience of all applicance - stove, refrigerator and dishwasher you can move right in and enjoy your new home!

The deck just off the kitchen dining area provides you will quiet relaxation after a long day or the ability to cook out and watch the family in the back yard. His and her closets in master bedroom with private bath.

This 3 BR 2 BA home in a well established neighborhood will be a fabulous purchase @ $128,900 for you and your family. 1300 sq ft of interior living space - nice natural lighting, his/her closets in master bedroom.

www.JustCallTina.com offers additional photos and information on this and other listings in the Orangeburg market.

Hoppin' to Easter...and NOT Bunnies!

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 07:02:03 -0500

Saturday, March 22, 2008 brought the 42nd annual Governor's Frog Jump and International Egg Striking Contest, drawing thousands of people to downtown Springfield.

With the weather in the weeks leading up to the event causing much discussion; it is suggested that the weather contributed to a sharp decline in the number of frogs competing for the coveted Frog Jump title. Easter was so early this year, and it hasn't been warm enough at night for the frogs to come out.

An estimated 60 frogs and their handlers competed in yesterday's event, however in past years; the number of frogs has easily surpassed 100! What a spectacle!

In spite of the decline in the 2008 competitors -many didn't let the cool night temperatures stop them from finding the right frog to place in the contest, taking the top slots with three local frogs. The first place winner was 10-year-old Alex Strock's frog, Bull; he jumped 14 feet, 1 inch to claim the lead at the 42nd annual Governor's Frog Jump.

According to contest rules, once a frog is placed on the launch pad, the handler cannot touch it. Handlers can, however, do anything they wish -- spit, stomp the ground, clap -- to try and coax the frog into jumping three times. If it takes longer than 10 seconds for a frog to jump between passes, or if a handler touches it after it is placed on the pad, the amphibian is disqualified. The distance between the launch pad and the third frog jump is measured to determine the winner

Development Plan - North Shore Lake Marion SC

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:11:09 -0500

The proposed development along North Shore Villas and Marina at Lake Marion in Santee SC will be an expansive site offering custom home sites at Polly's Retreat, townhomes, hard & soft trails with fitness stations and leisure areas located along the way.

While the amenities are extensive at North Shore Villas & Marina, offering a wellness center, club house, tennis court and shelter, as you can see...future development hopes to incorporate a lifestyle environment suitable for any number of housing requirements.

Plans are to include a commercial and restaurant site as well!

Contact Tina Goddard for information on the condominiums available at North Shore Villas & Marina or to be added to a list for information on the future development plans.

www.JustCallTina.com

Welcome Snowbirds! North Shore Resort Condominiums

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 09:56:06 -0500

The villas at North Shore on Lake Marion will soon be available for preview by our Northern cousins who have barely escaped the dire weather of this past winter! Don't suffer through another season like this past one...come on down and experience life as it should be!

The villas offer 2-4 bedrooms with wonderful upgrades in many of the units. The corner units offer an outdoor living area that is incredible on the balcony that winds around the side of the building! FABULOUS for entertaining.

While as yet unfinished - the interior shots will clearly display the functionality of the floorplan.

Cook in your upscale kitchen while keeping an eye on the relaxing view of Lake Marion just beyond your balcony!

The condominiums will offer hardwood, carpet and tile flooring...grantie countertops.

A utility room is separate from the bathrooms which also coordinate with the upscale interior...

www.JustCallTina.com Your site for additional North Shore or Orangeburg real estate information!

Orangeburg Opportunity

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 14:56:13 -0600

Located in town, this 3 BR 1 BA home is currently leased - keep as a rental property or buy now and move in later...Charmingly updated, with hardwood floors....

Check out www.JustCallTina.com for additional information.

Orangeburg Aquatic Facility

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 06:30:55 -0600

For those considering relocating to South Carolina, check out Orangeburg County - we have a lot to offer for those families looking for a community with extras! I read this morning as I logged onto the Times & Democrat on line that Orangeburg County has just announced plans for an aquatic facility including indoor pool and gymnasium! The facility will be located in my neighborhood right down from ERA Wilder Realty on St. Matthews Rd.

Young and old alike will enjoy what the facility has to offer in the way of locker rooms a training/community room along with swimming and heated therapy pools and a gymnasium.

The second phase will include a concessions area, a water slide and other water park features, which will be added as the budget allows.

The facility intends to provide additional recreational opportunities for both seniors and youth. Designed to also accommodate recreational and competitive swimmers and provide programs for families.

What an exciting time to be living in Orangeburg South Carolina!

www.JustCallTina.com

Townhomes - STILL Under Construction?

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:09:11 -0600

Yes!!! Spring Vallye Heights IS GOING FORWARD!!!

There has been so much confusion over new construction and re-zoning in Orangeburg County by way of the media lately I feel compelled to reassure all that YES....the townhomes are indeed available for PURCHASE.

There are no zoning issues- the plans were redone only to enable a more convenient entrance for future homeowners. To ensure ease of entrance and a quiet, private feel for the homeowner, the developers elected to change the entrance from Columbia Road to Sparkleberry. Spring Valley Heights will still be UPSCALE, private and conveniently located!

For additional information visit: www.JustCallTina.com

A Charming Investment

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 06:59:00 -0600

Looking for a nice investment within the city limits? This is the one for you...currently leased it could work easily for those wanting to move in a bit further down the road but would like the security of knowing they have their little corner of the world already to go when they are ready to retire!

With hardwood and vinyl it is easily maintained, a deck off the back, and aluminum siding. Offering 1185 sq ft at only $71,100 it is a fabulous opportunity (3BR 1BA) - ...Realtor Interest.

For additional info on Orangeburg Real Estate:

www.JustCallTina.com

Television Gets WILDER!

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:39:46 -0600

REALTORS are 's at It's common knowledge and there is certainly no need or room for false modesty. ERA Wilder Realty, Inc. will soon provide an opportunity for agents and local businesses to promote homes for sale, open houses, new developments and a variety of services relating to the real estate industry.

On the ERAwilder.tv web site guests will find Podcasts and videos showcasing our top agents sharing their expertise. The network website contains a 30 minute show with news, interviews, and valuable advertising content. (Isn't that a fabulous plug?)

Seriously, The show will also appear on a network or cable television station in ERA Wilder's market. What an incredible edge to marketing YOUR property! Keep your on WACH FOX 57 and Time Warner Cable Channel 7. Coming soon to a television near you.

One Story Bungalow

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 07:47:16 -0600

This home is currently leased, no sign, call (803) 308-4549. A nice little home with 1323 sq ft; 3 BR 1 BA; chain link fencing; masonry FP w/gas starter; hardwood & vinyl, built in 1960; Realtor Interest. Not bad at $79,390.

MLS#31179

625 Highland Ave., Orangeburg, SC

This property is approx. 0.2 ac with on site parking.

Crawl space; attic access, nice hardwood; ceililng fans. The home offers

a living room, dining room, and utility room as well.

The Dead Zone

Tina Goddard (ERA Wilder Realty, Inc.) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 18:52:35 -0600

I am a great Stephen King fan. I have been since the release of his novel Carrie when I was in high school (1975?).

I attended the same high school Stephen King did (much later of course).

My English teacher Mr. Lawson praised Mr. King and his writing and I went for it. Been a fan ever since.

I especially enjoy reading his work now that I live in South Carolina, its like being back ‘up North'. People here have no clue that rural Maine is a territory to itself, not to be classified with the rest of the northern realm. Unless I am visiting relatives, Mr. Kings writing is the only way to truly experience those character quirks that are unique to Downeast Maine.

Stephen King later wrote The Dead Zone, and I fear it has crept into my Orangeburg market. The Dead Zone, not the book.

The Dead Zone - better known as The Referral Company.

Our company offers agents the opportunity to hang their license in a separate ‘place'...a land of no MLS dues, no showings, and no clients - simply a 35% referral fee received upon closing for potential business offered to those still active in real estate.

Now I am not criticizing this, not quite. I received my first listing from a Zoner today. Transferred to me by my BIC from an agent that had listed the first house I sold as a new agent just last summer. I am happy to have it. But I hate to see him go.

I understand there are issues, other business opportunities, finances, family crisis to name a few. But it seems there is a tendency to kind of fade away...and then someone will ask where is so and so?

And there it is...they have gone to The Referral Company. We lost three this month. The upcoming State and National dues as well as E & O insurance were motivating factors I am sure.

I was almost banished to The Dead Zone! I became licensed while the office admin. Bad girl. I was made to choose...remain as admin and hang my license in The Dead Zone, or quit and work full time.

I chose life. (That's when I coined The Dean Zone phrase for The Referral Company).

I always feel a little sad when I learn someone has made the ‘other' choice, and a bit like a vulture as I wait to see who will receive their listings!!!!!

Wonder how many more Zoners 2008 will bring?