Hilton Head Real Estate

Hilton Head Island, Sea Pines , Golf View

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:25:33 -0600

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

27 Marsh View Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC

3BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $865,000

Year Built	1974
Sq Footage	3,496
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This is a fantastic home on a large lot overlooking the 9th fairway & green of the Sea Pines Country Club. The home was completely remodeled in 1999 and is in great shape. The home offers a large kitchen family room, considerable living room, and dining room overlooking the golf course. The home has a good flow for entertaining and is very convenient to the Sea Pines Country Club. The home has a private pool, nice outside patio area and many more features.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Family room
- Living room	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Microwave	- Attic
- Laundry area - inside	- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior from Marsh View	Living Room
Private Pool	Kitchen flows into the fa
Guest Bedroom	Golf course view from pat

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 19, 2009, 11:08am PST

Hilton Head Ocean Oriented Home "PRICE SLASHED"

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:35:04 -0600

'Click HERE to view this listing

Palmetto Dunes Resort Inverness Villas

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:05:00 -0500

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

60 CARNOUSTIE RD, Hilton Head Island, SC

Palmetto Dunes Resort Golf View

2BR/2BA Townhouse

offered at $489,900

Year Built	1976
Sq Footage	1,288
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$610 per month

DESCRIPTION

Tired of looking at old musty smelling villas? Take a look at this recently remodeled 2 BR 2 Ba villa. New kitchen cabinets, granite countertops, and GE stainless appliances. Both bathrooms have been remodeled and include new vanities with granite tops. New baseboard casing and custom multi piece crown molding throughout. Take a look, you will not be disappointed.Trades may be considered. Owner is related to listing agent

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Granite countertop	- Washer
- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Swimming pool(s)	- Tennis court(s)	- Golf course
- Gated property

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Completely remodeled kitc	Exterior golf view
living room	master bedroom
guest bedroom	master bath and guest bat

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 30, 2009, 11:50am PDT

Hilton Head Island Burkes Beach

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:46:01 -0500

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

6 SECOND STREET, Hilton Head Island, SC

Burkes Beach Hilton Head Island Ocean Oriented Home

6BR/6.5BA Single Family House

offered at $2,395,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	4,000
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	6 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

A spectacular home with over 9000 square feet of decks, garages and heated space. Easy access to the beach and all the amenities the island and low country have to offer. The home has six bedrooms and six & half bathrooms. The main feature of the home is the nice transition between outdoor decks, balconies, pool area, and the indoor living area. There are decks or balconies on all levels front and back, and a heated swimming pool. The home features two master suites, four bedrooms, and play room or den.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances
- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking	- Fitness center	- Swimming pool(s)
- Tennis court(s)	- Golf course	- Playground
- Elevator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior View	Gourmet Kitchen
Living Room	Master Bedroom
Guest Bedroom	Extensive Porches

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 17, 2009, 10:59am PDT

Hiltn Head Island North Forest Beach

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:42:20 -0500

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

1 Capri Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island North Forest Beach Ocean Oriented Home

7BR/6BA Single Family House

offered at $1,850,000

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	3,924
Bedrooms	7
Bathrooms	6 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This is a new 7 bedroom, 6.5 bath, 4th row Ocean home in North Forest Beach. A must see beach oriented home. The house has Three stories which includes an elevator, Heated pool and a Large open Great Room. It has a Gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and all the extras. There is a Formal dining area plus informal eating area in the kitchen. Beautifully decorated and furnished. The perfect vacation rental home. Walk to the beach as well as enjoy all of the restaurants and shops in Coligny Plaza. Owner says sell. Bring ALL OFFERS!!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances
- Washer	- Dryer	- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking	- Fitness center	- Swimming pool(s)
- Tennis court(s)	- Golf course	- Playground
- Elevator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior View	Living Area
Master Bedroom	Gourmet Kitchen
Pool	Dining Area

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 17, 2009, 10:21am PDT

New Listing in Sea Pines Plantation

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:19:49 -0500

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

17 Dewberry Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $585,000

Year Built	1980
Sq Footage	2,088
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This home is at the end of Dewberry Ln, well cared for, brand new HVAC, new granite counter tops in kitchen, nice rear deck with plenty of privacy, nicely landscaped out front, great den off living room, eat in kitchen. Dewberry is close to the Greenwood Forest community pool, tennis, and playground, or it is an easy bike ride to the beach or Harbour Town.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Living room	- Office/Den
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Granite countertop	- Attic
- Washer	- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Swimming pool(s)

- Tennis court(s)

- Playground

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	living area & fireplace
Den with heart of pine fl	Master Bedroom
Kitchen with new granite	living & dining area

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 17, 2009, 11:07am PDT

New Listing in Hilton Head Plantation

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:41:25 -0500

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

3 Shadewood Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC

3BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $399,000

Year Built	1985
Sq Footage	1,974
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	43,560 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This home sits on a nice corner lot with a nice back yard lagoon view, light and bright inside. Owners have made some nice improvements in the home. New hardwood floors, carpet, kitchen cabinets & counter tops, new bathroom fixtures.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Family room	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Attic	- Washer
- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse	- Fitness center	- Swimming pool(s)
- Tennis court(s)	- Golf course	- Lake
- Playground	- Gated property

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Rear Exterior View

Living area

Contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 17, 2009, 10:24am PDT

It's about time

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 07:09:32 -0500

I have been screaming at our town that they are responsible for all the old properties that are in dire need to be redeveloped, but are not. The Town of Hilton Head in 1987 adopted a very strict but good LMO (Land Management Ordinance), and all properties that were built at that time were grandfathered in. However, they were not grandfathered in the event it's use changed or improvements made. In that event the property owner would have to conform the property to meet the LMO. For many properties it was virtually impossible, or the owner would loose valuable square footage.

So, unfortunately 22 years later we have a number of rundown properties, and they are affecting the commercial values and are an eyesore. Someone new to the island might think we were in terrible economic times, but that's not the problem. We are victims of our town. So it is comforting to read this story in our local paper today.

If you are looking for investment property contact me, and I will help you find the right investment for your needs.

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

From the Island Packet April 6, 2009

Island relaxes land management rules

Town hopes move encourages redevelopment By DANIEL BROWNSTEIN
dbrownstein@islandpacket.com

Enlarge Image
Thanks to a relaxation of town rules regarding redevelopment, Stuart and Brecken Campagna plan to tear down this old dog kennel on Fish Haul Road and replace it with a new pet resort. Jay Karr • The Island Packet

Stuart Campagna and his wife, Brecken, bought an old cinder-block Hilton Head Island dog kennel last year with hopes they could level it and start anew with vacant land, a fresh canvass.

Had they bought Lowcountry Kennels on Fish Haul Road just a year before, their plans of building the more-upscale Southpaw Pet Resort would have hit a major snag.

Much of the island already was developed by the time the Town of Hilton Head Island was incorporated in 1983, and even more was built by 1987, when the town first adopted its planning code, the land management ordinance.

Many island structures pre-dating the town's formation don't comply with those planning standards. In the case of the 36-year-old kennel, the building infringed upon buffers between it and its neighbors, a vet clinic and a driveway.

If the Campagnas had wanted to put up a new building, much of their property would have been off-limits. They'd have ended up with a narrower building and not even enough room for dog runs.

"It would have been impossible," said Stuart Campagna.

Over the past two years, Hilton Head has injected some flexibility into its planning code through a series of changes to the land management ordinance. The intent is to encourage people such as the Campagnas to replace out-dated structures without requiring them to make sacrifices on building sizes and configurations.

Some of the changes apply only to specific areas of the island, like Coligny and Dunnagans Alley, where the town wants walkable districts of shops and cafes.

However, most changes are island-wide, and they mark a significant shift in town policy.

The goal had been to make all new buildings in total compliance with the planning code. Now, the goal is to push for incremental improvements -- so many aspects of properties are in compliance -- but not making the owner go all the way, which some argue is an unrealistic hurdle.

"If we want people to improve their properties, we need to be flexible and not require them to change everything," said Teri Lewis, the town's land management ordinance official.

Unfortunately, there have been few takers so far.

"We're not seeing them come in right now," Lewis said. "Part of that reason is the economy, but we think it's partially because people don't know about the changes we've made."

Town Council has set redevelopment as a major priority, but it's difficult to shake the image of a government founded to reign in growth that only recently changed course.

The new system allows "sensible discourse" between Hilton Head's planners and land owners instead of just getting a "cursory 'no,'" said Ed Evans, a co-founder and principal of Wood+Partners, an island land-planning and landscape architecture firm.

"Without some flexibility in the LMO, people who have very valuable property, some of the most visible and highly-traveled properties on Hilton Head, would not improve," Evans said. "People were sitting on their properties and not bringing them up to code because of the sacrifices to parking and the amount of lease-able space."

Among his many clients, Evans represents Plantation Center, a shopping center near the gates of Palmetto Dunes. The center recently got permission to demolish an abandoned building, so more parking could be added, something desperately needed during the lunch and dinner rushes at some of its popular restaurants, including Santa Fe Cafe.

The Campagnas hope to break ground on Southpaw Pet Resort and open the 31 kennels and 16 cat condominiums within the year.

Despite the town's changes, it wasn't easy to get the project approved, Campagna said.

"The town was helpful, but it was still a long, arduous process," he said. "There are a lot of properties on the island that just need some leniency. This is a new system, and hopefully some other building owners will take advantage of it."

Hilton Head Town Council on wrong track !!

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:46:24 -0500

Maybe the town should be asking the question if they have made it too hard for someone to renovate a property, or tear down a property and redevelop the property. The current LMO is very strenuous on its criteria for building; most of the properties built that need to be torn down were built prior to the LMO and are not conforming today.

A developer could not rebuild the square footage that some properties currently have, and they cannot renovate more than 50% of the building value. It is a catch twenty two!

So, now the Town wants to buy land and prepare it for resell. Is the Town going to be subsidizing the developer, because they will over pay for the property just like they have in the past, and then add all the cost that would be incurred by the Town and expect someone to run in and buy the land.

We have vacancies, we have low rents and we have deteriorating properties. I would recommend amending the LMO, so that existing properties can be renovated and a developer can still make money as well as the commercial tenant. Also, allow for a more square footage per acre.

$150.00 a square foot for land is a high cost to pay for commercial property. A 10,000 sq ft building can be built on an acre, and HWY 278 frontage sells for $1,500,000. A building would cost another $200 a sq ft finished, and you have a $350 a sq ft building. A lease would need to be $30 a square foot. A retail business would have to do $5,000,000 in sales a year, a restaurant would have to do $3,750,000. These figures are based on average percentage of sales nationally for retail & restaurants.

The Town is not a developer, and the one time they tried it cost the Town millions, remember the land that was bought for low income housing? Did we every get low income housing, no the new owner made a huge profit off the Town.

The Town is just trying figure out how to spend the $17,000,000. I personally think they have enough property.

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

www.fraserrealty.net

The Island Packet article

Hilton Head looks at buying land to spur redevelopment

By DANIEL BROWNSTEIN
dbrownstein@islandpacket.com

When Hilton Head Island conceived its land-buying program 20 years ago, the intent was to prevent growth on an island with plenty of land for development and no shortage of speculators.

Now as the island approaches build-out, Town Council members are considering using public money to buy properties, demolish outdated buildings, and rezone and resell the land to spur development in certain areas.

For instance, the town could level an empty office building and then sell the property to a developer. That developer might have had no interest in owning an office building -- especially a languishing one -- but does have use for an empty piece of land.

If a successful project then goes in that spot, it could cause neighboring landowners to improve or redevelop their properties.

Similar tactics have been used elsewhere in the state, including in Greenville and Columbia.

If the Town Council decides to go down that path, it would mark a major shift in the guiding philosophy behind the town's land-buying program, which is funded by voter-approved bonds, tax increment financing districts and a real estate transfer fee.

The seeds of the debate were sown in December when the Town Council identified promoting economic redevelopment as a major priority in the coming year in order to maintain the island's reputation as a desirable tourist destination.

Some council members have expressed frustration at the snail's pace of proposed redevelopment in the Dunnagans Alley area, where plans call for a walkable commercial district.

During a strategy session Monday, the council stuck its toes in those waters, but was far from making a decision about whether the town should start a limited program to "flip" properties. Doing so could require changing written policies.

"I think it's one of the tools we should be working with, but I don't think it should be the defining force behind our land-acquisition program," Mayor Tom Peeples said. "We need to make sure that if something comes our way, we're not going to turn our backs on it."

Making such a change is not without controversy.

In a November referendum, voters overwhelmingly approved authorizing the issuance of up to $17 million in bonds for "purchasing developed and undeveloped land, development rights and conservation easements in order to manage growth and development ... ."

Town manager Steve Riley said the language appears to give the town enough flexibility to buy land, rezone it to allow less intense development and sell it off to developers.

But the public's perception of what they voted on might differ from that interpretation.

"I don't think it's really generally in line with the public's vote in 2008," Councilman George Williams said. "The way I would have read it is that it's more of the same as what we've been doing and doesn't open up another door."

At least one resident watching Monday's meeting felt the same way.

"This community voted for that referendum based on the thought that the property would be used for parkland, bike trails and non-commercial uses," Tony Andreano said.

If the town wants to spur redevelopment with its land-buying program, Andreano argued that another bond referendum should be held.

Buying land, demolishing aging buildings and creating more restrictive zoning to promote a certain type of development could cause a ripple of welcome change, those associated with local commercial development said.

"I think it's very important for us to consider redevelopment of some of those tired places because there is a lot more competition out there as to what Hilton Head offers," said Bryan Hughes, a broker with the Hilton Head office of Maloney-Mitchell-Denton Commercial Properties.

Riley said discussions will continue about the types of purchases that should be

considered.

"I didn't get a good sense of direction one way or another," he said. "But the discussion was a starting point. Nothing ever gets solved in one meeting."

What is going on with our local government?

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:29:35 -0600

There have been numerous articles recently about the quality of water in the May River and other pristine waterways that are a part of the lowcountry estuary system. (I have posted a few below) They all lead back to one problem. Our county and town governments have dropped the ball on inspecting the way retention ponds are built, what they flow into, and how do they filtrate the pollutants that they hold.

Beaufort County has rules and regulations and standards for developers, but they seem to be more interested in natural buffers along the major thoroughfares (I call them trash collectors). A nicely landscaped buffer is much neater, more aesthetic to the eye, and provides better visibility for the commercial operators.

It shouldn't be such a big deal, what is a big deal is not taking the time, the money, the knowledgeable inspector to check on the retention ponds, and drainage of a development.

Take it one more step and make developments get bi annual water testing of their outflows.

Work with marine biologist to plant naturally plants and crustaceans that filter the water, and maintain the appropriate ecosystem in the master drainage system.

We have no one to blame but ourselves for not making sure our elected officials oversee what is taking place with inspections. Write your Town Council, and Beaufort County Council voiceing your anger for their oversight, and get them concentrating on the important things not the cutting down of weeds and dog willows along 278.

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

http://www.islandpacket.com

May Day for the May River: How we can save the county's pristine waters Collins Doughtie cdad@hiltonheadisland.net 843-757-7534 Published Wednesday, January 28, 2009

I have always found it amusing how Blufftonians have defended our oysters. They aren't the biggest oysters in the country, but they sure are the sweetest, and they contain just the right amount of salt. In fact, they're the subject of many a discussion about whether they're the best in the country, which, believe it or not, has been known to stop just a tad shy of fisticuffs.

A perfect "for instance" happened not too long ago when I attended an oyster roast where I met two guests from Apalachicola, Fla. If you are not an oyster aficionado, Apalachicola is known for shipping oysters all over the country -- including to right here in Bluffton -- during the months when the water has not yet cooled and our oyster season is closed. They are big oysters alright, but to me they taste like a giant wad of cotton soaked in Lord-knows-what. For years I have tried to like them but, folks, it just ain't going to happen.

Thus I forgo eating oysters until that magic day around here when the water temperature drops and it's time to pull my boat over to a shell bank, grab my oyster knife and wallow in ecstasy as I sample the first May River oysters of the year. To make this event even better, I carry along saltine crackers and cocktail sauce, so I can shuck several oysters at a time, pile them high a cracker, drip a tad of cocktail sauce on and add another cracker to make an oyster sandwich. I swear this will make you swallow your tongue.

Since the time of the Indians, May River oysters have been a mainstay. I look at the shell middens -- which if you don't know are where the Indians would sit and shuck oysters and other shellfish. Some of these middens are 30 feet high and hundreds of feet long. Being a dreamer as well as a lover of history, I imagine how many generations of Indians -- and how many hundreds of years -- it took to pile up that many oyster shells. It just blows my mind. Since its beginning, the pristine May River has done its part to feed millions upon millions with all that it has to offer.

Not that long ago, I remember how proud we all were when we found that the May River was among only a select few bodies of water on the entire East Coast that could boast an A+ rating. We fought industry and won. We reveled whenever a story in some national publication used the May River as an example of the right way to develop in harmony with nature.

But this past week, the May River was the subject of a new piece of literature that has me terribly saddened. If I were to have named this report, I would called it "May Day For The May River."

What I have feared most has happened: A study done by the Town of Bluffton and DHEC reports that the May River is in big trouble. To illustrate just how much trouble, discussions are in the works about completely shutting down shell fishing from about one mile upstream from the Oyster Factory all the way to the May River's headwaters. Why? Pollution. To say I was stunned is an understatement. I was absolutely floored and frankly, mad as hell.

Where is this pollution coming from? It is coming from many sources, but primarily the many developments that have sprung up almost overnight in the past several years. And if you ask me, a lack of foresight and understanding of how the water run-off works in these areas is the reason our cherished May River oysters, clams and other filter feeders are threatened.

How come I saw it coming and those in power didn't? I am by no means smarter than these folks, but when building permits were being handed out like candy at a parade, I knew there would be consequences. Those consequences are now a terrible reality. To me, greed overpowered common sense.

So what can you do? Yell, scream and make your voices heard. Attend town meetings and write to those you have entrusted with our future. Unless we address this nightmare right here and now, you might just find yourself eating Apalachicola oysters from now on. How's that for a wake-up call?

Collins Doughtie is the outdoors columnist for The Bluffton Packet.

County yet to arrange promised Okatie River water quality testing By MICHAEL WELLES SHAPIROmshapiro@islandpacket.com843-706-8142 Published Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Months after the Beaufort County Council approved in October a 1,252-home development near the Okatie River, the county hasn't moved forward with promised water quality testing. The river water testing was part of an agreement developers of Okatie Village signed in exchange for the right to build the 284-acre project, which has a mix of commercial and residential developments.

The developers, Hilton Head Island's Jim Robinson and La Casa Real Estate Development of Winston-Salem, N.C., agreed not to do any further harm to the Okatie River, most of which is off-limits for shellfish harvesting because of pollution levels.

But the county, which was responsible for getting the initial tests done, hasn't yet hired a contractor.

County stormwater manager Dan Ahern said Beaufort County, which received money from developers for testing, wants to make sure its testing methods are consistent with those used by the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

"We've gone over the scope of what needs to be done," said Ahern. But, he added, the question of who will do the work and what it will cost have not yet been determined. The Okatie River is one of 970 impaired waterways in the state that the U.S. Clean Water Act requires DHEC to improve. Officials have said the agency is developing a program specific to shellfish harvesting waters that will define the maximum amount of a specific pollutant a body of water can take in and still meet state standards.

A study of the river, expected to be completed by year's end, will try to identify the pollution sources, which could be animals, failing septic tanks, stormwater drainage systems or all three. The study is a requirement for grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Ahern said county and state testing methods must be the same so officials have a better understanding of the sources of the pollution.

As a result, he said, the county's testing methods must be approved by state regulators. Tom Jans, a spokesman for the Okatie Village developers, said his clients are surveying the land and performing engineering work before construction starts. The process should take six months.

"But the developers are committed as ever to provide the best protection possible for the Okatie," Jans said.

Dog wilows and weeds are not a natural buffer, the only small animals that live in them are rats feeding on the trash collected in the weeds. It also is not the character that I have grown up with. As far as neon signs, billboards, high rises, that the most ludicrus thing a reporter could even report. That is one thing Beaufort County got right. We don't have bill boards, neon signs and high rises, and we want. I mentioned how we could work with the runoff at the beginning of this blog, and it still is valid in this disccussion.

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Developers, environmentalists clash over buffers By MICHAEL WELLES SHAPIRO and LIZ MITCHELLmshapiro@islandpacket.comlmitchell@islandpacket.com Published Sunday, January 25, 2009

Imagine the drive down U.S. 278 toward Hilton Head Island if many of the trees were replaced by high-rise buildings and hotels awash with flashy colors, bright neon signs and tall light fixtures.

It's not unusual for business groups to want their projects seen by the traveling public and tourists visiting Beaufort County.

The business groups, however, have long been at odds with environmentalists over the appropriate pace of development and the standards for building projects.

As the recession lingers, some business and government leaders have started to rethink the strict county rules on natural buffers and aesthetics involved in opening and renovating businesses.

The debate has been ongoing, mostly fought in a series of board meetings rarely attended by the public.

In November, however, the issue came to the forefront when county administrator Gary Kubic overrode the Southern Corridor Review Board, enabling a car dealership on U.S. 278 to rehabilitate its building without having to comply with the review board's requirements. In the coming months, the county plans to revisit its renovation rules, particularly the requirements for planting trees. Though businesses sometimes view those rules as onerous, the officials charged with enforcing them say they are needed to protect the area's character and environment.

REDEVELOPMENT

Kubic has voiced concerns about a jumbled county permitting process, which in lean times can make it difficult for new stores to get off the ground and for aging businesses to renovate. Kubic said it is challenging to encourage small- and medium-sized businesses to spruce up older properties. "They'll say, 'Hey, I can't afford it,'" Kubic said. "How do we get the developer to reinvest in himself, when he's saying, 'It's not worth it. I don't want another mortgage.'" Kubic has suggested using the fines the county collects from builders who violate environmental standards to help small businesses pay for required buffers. Steve Wilson, chairman of the review board, said the county should think hard before loosening requirements.

The board enforces zoning rules for tree- and shrub-filled buffers and design standards for lighting, muted colors and architecture that are consistent with the Lowcountry look. Wilson is particularly adamant about buffer requirements, which he said aren't so cost prohibitive as to prevent developers from renovating.

"I'm a big capitalist," said Wilson, a commercial real estate consultant. "I think the market drives things and businesses aren't going to let their properties turn into blight."

ENVIRONMENTAL SIDE

The county's permitting process takes time, and some businesses have said they lose money waiting to set up shop as the wheels of bureaucracy turn.

Bill Miles, president of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, said the county must balance "the needs of business to be unencumbered by undue restriction" with the area's distinctive look.

Judy Nash Timmer, the county's development review planner, said much of the board's oversight deals with maintaining that local character.

When developers approach the board with car dealerships, Timmer said they often push for the franchise building to satisfy corporate headquarters.

But those plans often clash with local standards. "They should look at what's allowed," Timmer said.

While businesses don't always like the process, Wilson said the county's regulations serve a valuable purpose. "The wants and needs of the developer really are at odds of the wants and needs of people who want to control growth and protect the environment," Wilson said. To that end, he said costs to the developer must take a back seat to buffers. Kim Jones, natural resources manager for the town of Bluffton, said buffers serve as visual barriers to screen highways or neighboring properties, provide habitat for wildlife and help protect water quality.

"We are developing more of our land and taking more habitat off the plate for wildlife to utilize," she said. Jones said encouraging the use of native vegetation and layers of tall trees and small shrubs in buffers will give birds habitat in the upper canopy while small mammals can inhabit the dense underbrush. As far as water quality, the more plants to soak up nutrients and pollutants that run off roads and parking lots, the healthier local rivers will be, Jones said. The board tries to balance development and the environment, Wilson said. If the area were any different, developers might not want to locate in Beaufort County. "Why are people coming here?" he asked. "It's not for Best Buy or for Home Depot, but for the beauty of this place."

This is one of the articles that is alarming. Pulte did not build the runoff lagoons properly and they are a problem, how many others are their like this one? Not just in Sun City but all along 278, Buckwalter, and the New River. Beaufort and jasper Counties need to take a good hard and long look at this problem, and get with there programs and start fining people.

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Sun City developer promises to remedy lagoon problems By MICHAEL WELLES SHAPIROmshapiro@islandpacket.com843-706-8142 Published Friday, January 23, 2009

Sun City Hilton Head developer Pulte Homes on Thursday promised to fix problems with a number of lagoons in the gated community at no cost to residents. That promise was made to about 550 residents at a meeting organized by the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

The agency alleged in June that Pulte had built a number of lagoons in several of the community's newer neighborhoods that didn't match their original permits, a violation of state pollution laws.

Lagoons are designed to filter rainwater before it flows into nearby rivers, streams and wetlands.

DHEC officials announced Thursday that Pulte has begun the repairs in the Aster Fields, Basket Walk, Murray Hill and Water Lily Cove neighborhoods.

"We stand ready to do this work, we've started to do this work ... and it's not going to cost you a nickel," Pulte spokesman Jon Cherry told the audience. After the meeting, Cherry said he didn't know how much the work would cost.

A "lagoon action plan" submitted to DHEC shows the repairs include dredging seven lagoons and raising the water level in others by changing the height of drains.

Though residents applauded Cherry's promise, many voiced concerns that Pulte's repairs would not be thorough enough and could saddle homeowners with hefty repair costs in the future.

Several pleaded with DHEC officials to make sure the repairs are adequate. "Require Pulte to correct all the deficiencies and make sure it's done properly" said Rick McCollough, a Sun City resident who pushed DHEC to look into lagoon issues in 2007. A presentation by Tim Doyle, a Sun City resident and civil engineer, said lagoon depths should be increased beyond what Pulte has proposed to ensure water quality.

During a lengthy public comment period, many residents described living next to murky, sediment-filled lagoons they felt were too shallow.

Stuart Freeman said he'd gone out in the pond behind his home in a canoe to measure its depths. It was 4 feet at its deepest point, he said. While many residents came to the meeting to hear about the lagoons, a number also were upset that water is inundating several areas of federally protected wetlands in Sun City. Rita Niemeyer described wetlands in her neighborhood where hardwood trees have collapsed because of excess water.

"In the past 1 1/2 to 2 years it has spread so fast it's frightening," Niemeyer said. She added the view of dead and dying trees behind many residents' homes adversely affects property values.

"How do you replace all these beautiful trees?" she asked. "It breaks my heart." "We're still looking at the wetlands," said Blair Williams, a DHEC official. But he said the Army Corps of Engineers, which has oversight of wetlands, is leading that ongoing investigation.

Community Achievemnet

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 13:22:01 -0600

Hampton Lake has once again been recognized for their inovative land planning and marketing skills. The development team of Hampton lakes has been highly successful in and around the Beaufort County area. They have also been doing well in a depressed market which is also a sign of their overall team from design to implementation to marketing. The Island Packet release a press release today about winning the "Best in American Living Awards ceremony, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders' Design Committee and Professional Builder magazine."

Last year Hampton Lake won the "Best Community Facility" this year Palmetto Bluff won the award for Wilson's Landing, both facilities built by my brother Joe's company Fraser Construction

http://fraser-construction.com/

My Blog about Last Years Award

http://hiltonheadrealestatenewsletter.blogspot.com/2008/02/hampton-lakes-lakeside-village-home.html

Below is the article from the Island Packet

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Bluffton's Hampton Lake wins national award

By DON McLOUD
dmcloud@islandpacket.com 843-706-8139 Published Wednesday, January 21, 2009 <!-- Mycapture has changed their image location...commenting out for now

Enlarge Image

Photo: Lakeside Village at Hampton Lake, as seen in this aerial photo, is one of the big attractions at the Bluffton community, which won a Best in American Living Award.
Special to the Packet

Hampton Lake in Bluffton won a prestigious national award Monday, being named the Best Community with 151 Homes and Over in the country.

The lakefront community off U.S. 278 beat out developments from throughout the United States to receive the honor at the Best in American Living Awards ceremony, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders' Design Committee and Professional Builder magazine.

The awards are presented to outstanding builders, architects, designers, developers, land planners and interior designers nationwide in 36 categories.

Paul Deffenbaugh, editorial director for Professional Builder, said past winners of the award include companies of excellent international reputation. "It's quite prestigious," he said. "The kind of company Hampton Lake is keeping is very good."

Deffenbaugh said the judges look at a variety of criteria, including the quality of the land development, consideration of the environment, amenities and proximity to parkland.

The winner also must show success in marketing and sales. "If it doesn't sell, it doesn't win," he said.

Despite a slow economy, Hampton Lake has sold 450 properties since 2006, according to Gerrit Albert, president of Hampton Lake.

Albert, who is in Las Vegas at the International Builders' Show, said the other main contributing factor to the development's success is its amenities. The developer, Reed Development of Bluffton, conducted focus groups to determine what people wanted in a community and what they didn't want.

Because of those responses, Albert said Hampton Lake has property owners whose ages vary. "The majority of our owners are baby boomers, but we appeal to people in their 30s and 40s as well," he said.

The big draw is the Lakeside Village, built around a 165-acre freshwater lake. Amenities include a 340-acre nature preserve with nine miles of nature trails, a waterfront bar and grill, general store, nature center, spa and fitness center, resort-style pools, a boathouse and beach at the lake, an overnight camping island, a dog park and golf course. Tennis courts are being built.

"All of our amenities are clustered together," Albert said. "There's something to do for everyone."

Albert said he considered the award a testament to quality development occurring in the area, some of it as a continuation of the early development on Hilton Head Island by brothers Charles and Joe Fraser. Fraser Construction of Bluffton has done much of the major facilities construction in Hampton Lake, and John Reed worked with Fraser before forming his own development company.

"The legacy really does live on today," Albert said.

Other major players in Hampton Lake's development are Malphrus Construction of Hilton Head, PBG of Hardeeville and Wood+Partners of Hilton Head.

Other local winners

Other local winners of the 25th Annual Best in American Living Awards, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders and Professional Builder magazine, are:

• Wilson's Landing at Palmetto Bluff won Best Community Facility (151 Units and Over). Hampton Lake's Lakeside Village won the same award last year. Both facilities were built by

Fraser Construction of Bluffton.

• Wayne Windham Architect, P.A., of Bluffton won the 2008 Home of the Year award for the design of a custom home in Palmetto Bluff. The firm also received an award for the Best One-of-a-Kind Home in the 4,000- to 6,500-square-foot category and the Best in Region Award.

• Erickson Home by Noro Co. of Port Royal won Best Single Family Detached Home (1,800 Square Feet and Below).

Indigo Run - Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:09:43 -0600

Indigo Run is the one of the last private residential golf communities to be developed on Hilton Head Island. Its 1,712 acres are located at the island's north end, directly across Highway 278 from Hilton Head Plantation. Indigo run prides itself on its two jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses: the Golden Bear and The Golf Club. Inside the private gates of Indigo Run, residents can also take advantage of Sunningdale Park, a recreation area with a junior Olympic swimming pool, hard tennis courts, basketball and volleyball courts, and playground.

Community Highlights

Located on the northern end of the island, 1700 acres
Features a first in Jack Nicklaus design, the Golden Bear Course
Views from golf, lagoon to waterfront of Broad Creek

Located on the north end of the Island, directly across from Hilton Head Plantation, this private plantation borders William Hilton Parkway to the north and Broad Creek on the south.
Indigo Run features a combination of practical living and beautiful surroundings. Its location offers residents a quiet oasis close to shopping, schools, dining, entertainment and medical services - and a wide range of views - from golf, lagoon to waterfront.

Heading the list of amenities at Indigo Run are 36 holes of Nicklaus championship golf, including The Golf Club, a private members-only club with a Jack Nicklaus/Jack Nicklaus II signature course. The other course, Golden Bear, offers an acclaimed layout by Nicklaus design. In addition to golf, residents enjoy swimming and tennis at a private recreation center and may stroll or jog on miles of leisure trails. Other amenities such as a private dock on Broad Creek are found in separate enclaves within the plantation itself. Membership privileges vary according to locale.

Indigo Run is very much a local community with the majority of owners living year round. The club is very active with their membership, and the residents enjoy the amenities.

Indigo Run offers a wide variety of property types, predominatley single family homes with golf and wooded views. River Bend is part of Indigo Run, but is outside the main body of the community, but here is where you can find depp water, and marsh front homes, along with landscaped homesites.

Contact me to find out more about Indigo Run charlie@fraserrealty.net

View Video of Indigo Run

http://www.fraserrealty.net/indigo-run.asp

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Hilton Head Plantation - Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:56:24 -0600

The second planned community, on Hilton Head Island, by the Sea Pines Companyoffers over 4,000 sprawling acres on the Island's northern tip; Hilton Head Plantation is Hilton Head's second largest planned community. Sheltered between Port Royal Sound and the United States Intracoastal Waterway, the plantation offers amenities that rival any luxury resort. In addition to two miles of sandy beaches and a marina to charter a boat - or dock one of your own - residents enjoy six miles of biking and jogging trails, two nature conservancy's, a central recreational facility, waterfront playground, two five-star restaurants, swimming pools, a common gardening area, 12 tennis courts plus four 18-hole golf courses.

Community Highlights

Comprised of a portion of retirees and empty Nester's along with families
One of the largest, and ever popular in terms of true residential living
Local public school campus is nearby
Northern part of the island, and contains some 4000 acres of semitropical topography
Four 18-hole golf courses, as well as miles of bike trails
Skull Creek Marina that provides access to the Port Royal Sound
Award-winning Cypress Retirement Community

Hilton Head Plantation offers buyer and sellers unique opportunities. The community offers a wide range of activities, and types of properties. Therefore the different property values range from a low of around $315,000 to above $2,500,000. There is something for almost anyone.

It is home to the Country Club of Hilton Head's semi-private 18-hole golf course designed by Rees Jones. Jones also designed the plantation's award-winning Oyster Reef Golf Course and Bear Creek Golf Course. The plantation has a fourth, private course created by Gary Player and Ron Kirby called Dolphin Head.

In addition to its plentiful golf options, the plantation provides access to two miles of beach, a community recreation center, shared gardening area, numerous community swimming pools, and tennis courts, Skull Creek marina, and the Old Fort Pub restaurant. Two nature conservancies possess beautiful, lengthy natural trails and boardwalks through marsh. Residents can walk across a narrow neck of land connecting the plantation to Pine Island, an approximately 30-acre stretch of preserved land surrounded by beach. An extensive leisure path system winds through the community.

A buyer can almost find any kind of property in Hilton head Plantation. Entry level homes on wooded lots to fabulous homes overlooking Port Royal, and certainly many other homes with views of golf courses, marshes, lagoons, and nature preserves. Many of the homes are part of the award winning "Model Home" program that was implemented in the late 70's through 80's that made HHP the unique "local" residential community it is today.

HHP also boast a retirement community in the Cypress with homes along the Intracoastal Waterway, and complete health care facilities, dining, physical therapy and many other active adult activities.

HHP is home to Skull Creek Marina a full functioning marina operation from dockage, fuel, travel lift, and marina store.

Located near the marina are a number of different condominiums that take advantage of the beautiful sunsets overlooking Skull Creek. HHP is truly a unique community and is worth exploring.

Contact me to find out more about Hilton Head plantation: charlie@fraserrealty.net

View a video of Hilton Head Plantation

http://www.fraserrealty.net/hilton-head-plantation.asp

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Palmetto Dunes - Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:46:47 -0600

This popular resort and residential community is located mid-island, sitting on 1,800 well-preserved acres, with only 5000 homes and villas. Inside its guarded gates are three miles of world-famous Atlantic Ocean beaches, 11 miles of winding lagoons, and one of the largest tennis centers on the island, with 25 courts. Palmetto Dunes is also home to the Hilton Resort and the Hilton Head Marriott Beach and Golf Resort, previously the Hyatt Regency Hilton Head Resort. Its three public, 28-hole golf courses were designed by PGA favorites George Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, and Arthur Hills. The community ranges from year-round residents to weekend visitors due to the wide range of lodging available.

Community Highlights

Three miles of white, sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy walking the beach at sunset, biking, crabbing, or building a sandcastle.
The Marriott Beach & Golf Resort is located oceanfront in Palmetto Dunes, offering breathtaking ocean & island views. The resort has over 500 rooms on ten floors. Guest enjoy amenities like the outdoors Olympia pool & children's pool, indoor heated pool, health club, whirlpool & sauna. The resort has shopping and dining as well!!
The Hilton Oceanfront Resort is a full service resort with 295 rooms, including 28 suites.
Three Championship Golf Courses: Robert Trent Jones Golf,George Fazio Golf Course, and Arthur Hill Golf Course.
Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, A 25 court tennis facility featuring Har-Tru, Laykold, super grass & lighted courts. A full service tennis facility with instruction and group play.
An interlocking brackish lagoon systems winding throughout the community with some of the best fishing on the island,
Community beach access

Shelter Coveis located across the William Hilton Parkway from Palmetto Dunes. It is situated at the headwaters of Broad Creek, and offers guest dramatic vistas across the marshes that burst forth in color at sunset. Shelter Cove Marina is surrounding by unique shops, fine and casual dining, and outdoor entertainment. Above the shops are individually owned villas overlooking the marina. Across the marina is the Disney Vacation Club, which offers guest views of the Harbour and dramatic sunset views. The marina is the largest deep-water marina on the island, and one of the most protected. Shelter Cove merchants host a weekly fireworks show during the summer months, which is a big hit with the kids on vacation. Shelter Cove Mall and Shelter Cove Plaza are situated close by.

Community Highlights

Community Pool, Community beach access & clubhouse, Private Gated Community, Three golf courses designed by world renowned designers, world class tennis facility, single family homes, and multifamily properties, beach front and deep water access through Shelter Cove Harbour, retail stores & restaurants are also a part of Shelter Cove Harbour, a spectacular brackish water lagoon ecosystem for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and boating (electric motors only). Contact me to find out more about palmetto Dunes: charlie@fraserrealty.net

View Video of Palmetto Dunes

http://www.fraserrealty.net/palmetto-dunes.asp

View my Featured Listing

http://activerain.com/blogsview/793123/Shelter-Cove-Harbourside-Villa

Property of Charlie B Fraser 2009

Development and the coastal carolina ecosystem

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:21:20 -0600

We are making a difference and our federal government is leading the way. A recent article was in our local paper describing a new environmental study that will be done along the North and South Carolina coast and several other distinctive ecosystems in the USA. These studies will embrace the aspects of an ecosystem, not just a single aspect of the ecosystem, but how it all interacts which includes development. Contrary to popular belief we are part of the ecosystem.

Hopefully, this study will help our local and county government understand and possible get grants to help prove what can be done to develop in an ecofriendly manner. Currently our LMO's are too rigid in stature, and the bureaucrats that run the departments too scarred to allow a change from the standard operating procedure. This forces new creative thinking away from the table. A "good" developer with a good team of engineers, architects and builders are ahead of any planning commission when it comes to innovative design and land planning. Developers are going to create communities for what people want today, and they want ecofriendly communities. They will cost more than the standard traditional development, but in the long run they will go way beyond the cost.

The federal government will be leading the way on bringing ideas that are currently in places, but are not cost effective for consumers that will turn organic waste into fuel, soil additives, and replace bio carbons in the ground instead of the atmosphere, solar energy will power and heat homes and offices, waste water will be recycled into potable water and roof top hydroponics gardens will supply our vegetables. This will especially be critical in large urban areas, but it will also be done in smaller urban areas. Our current zoning is not flexible when it comes to urban living. There have been numerous attempts to rezone parcels that would incorporate the residential and commercial aspects of urban design, but the planning commission and council turned them down. Bluffton currently has a few developments that incorporate the residential and commercial villages, and this trend will only increase in the future. As, each new "village" is developed it will incorporate more ecofriendly components, into their overall planning.

We also need to have a standard rating system that will rate a community on it's overall practices for being labeled a "ecofriendly community". There are rating systems for buildings, and the Audubon Society has a rating system, but it is too narrow in focus. There also are some ratings for "Green Communities" but these go way beyond and incorporate a lifestyle.

It is not that far away. Some people like to call this a "Green" community, but I personally do not like the term. It is an ecofriendly community, because that is what is effected by the development; the ecosystems is the entire picture of the environment. EARTH, WIND, WATER & FIRE

Written by Charlie B Fraser 2009

Coastal Carolina chosen for national environmental study
By LIZ MITCHELLlmitchell@islandpacket.com843-706-8169
Published Saturday, January 10, 2009

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has chosen the coastal areas of North Carolina and South Carolina to be part of a national research project that will help communities make good environmental choices.
EPA officials are coming to Bluffton on Monday to present outline of the project and get comments from the public. The meeting will be followed by a daylong workshop in North Charleston of elected officials and leaders in planning, zoning and environmental protection.
"The idea is not to stop development or even slow it," said Dorsey Worthy of the EPA's Office of Research and Development. "We want increasing populations, but we want to do it in a knowledgeable and responsible way."
Worthy is leading the coastal Carolinas study, one of four community research projects in the country focused on understanding ecosystems that provide clean air and water, productive soils and food and fiber. The other studies are being conducted in the Tampa Bay, Fla., area, the Midwest and the Willamette River Basin in Oregon.
The Carolinas project will look at landscapes, waterways and coastal wetlands from counties near Currituck Sound in North Carolina to those near the Savannah River. The area was selected because it faces pressures from population growth and landscape and climate change, Worthy said.
"If we take too much advantage of the system without acknowledging its restorative and human health aspects, we run the danger of creating an environment that won't sustain us," Worthy said. "It's not just about wildlife; it's about protecting human health in the long run."
Worthy said the meeting also will help the EPA shape the agency's research agenda for the next 10 years. About 60 scientists are assigned to the study.
"We want to hear what (leaders and residents) value in their communities and where they want their communities to go in the next few years," Worthy said.
As research progresses, Worthy said, he and other EPA officials can help local communities access grants to protect and restore the environment.
Nancy Schilling, founder of Friends of the Rivers, which is hosting the meeting Monday, said she hopes Beaufort County can earn national recognition for its protection of waterways.
"My goal with Friends of the Rivers is that we never have to get into restoration," she said, but "that we are into preservation of what we've got ... ."

Good stewardship of islanders land

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:41:17 -0600

I for one am happy to see the Barnwell Family come up with a creative way to keep there family property, and to make the property work for them in a way that meets the demands of today's

enviroment.

They have come up with a very responsible plan for developing their property. The mix use of commercial, open space, and cottages is on the cutting edge of urban design and "green design". Hopefully they will find the right resources to come up with a Eco friendly green planned neighborhood.

I also encourage the town council to support this project, and ask anyone else to make their voice heard for this project.

Below is an article from the Island Packet.

posted by Charlie Fraser 2009

Barnwells want to develop land so it stays in the family By DANIEL BROWNSTEINdbrownstein@islandpacket.com843-706-8125 Published Sunday, January 11, 2009

Photo: Thomas Barnwell Jr. visits the tabby ruins on his property on Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island's Planning Commission met Wednesday to discuss a north-island development near this historical ruin that was part of Cotton Hope Plantation. The Barnwell family wants to construct a development that would have retail space below apartments. The development would also include town homes and single-family homes with a "cottage" look. The tabby ruins will be the center of the development. Jonathan Dyer /The Island Packet

For seven generations, the Barnwell family has held on to the heart of their land on the north end of Hilton Head Island. They'd like to make sure it stays that way for the next seven and beyond.

Like other native islanders, the family has sold bits and pieces to capitalize on the wave of development that first hit the barrier island about 50 years ago. Led by family patriarch Thomas C. Barnwell Jr., the family has developed a string of well-kept, affordable neighborhoods. Now they have a concept for holding on to the rest of their property -- an idea that could become a model for other Gullah-Geechee families facing the dilemma of keeping evermore expensive land that's been handed down, one generation to another, since slavery ended. The family plans to develop the land, about 18 acres on the south side of Squire Pope Road that straddles Gumtree Road, into mixed-use buildings with retail on the lower floors and living space above, nine town homes and a cluster of 35 cottages. They would lease the buildings and homes to themselves and others, retaining ownership of the property. An overarching theme of the development is to respect the environment and the character of Hilton Head natives while creating a close-knit community. Conceptual plans currently weaving through town planning boards up to the Town Council include an organic vegetable patch and a park.

At a meeting last week, Planning Commission members unanimously recommended granting a zoning change from residential to planned development.

Neighbors are generally supportive of the project, but do have some concerns about nearby roads not being equipped to handle more traffic.

The plan is for the family to build two mixed-use buildings around the ruins of an early 1800s tabby home that was once part of Cotton Hope Plantation. The ruins -- which might someday be listed on the National Register of Historic Places -- would be restored to their original condition in hopes they'll become the focal point for the public portion of Tabby Village.

Because the family wants some retail businesses in some buildings, it is asking the town to transfer those commercial rights from three other acres it owns along Skull Creek. That waterfront property would then remain vacant, preserved in its natural state. "We're trying to do some advance planning," said Barnwell. "Before the bridge (connecting the island to the mainland), native people used to own and control over 2,500 acres of land on the island. That's not the case today."

Today, native islanders own fewer than 1,000 acres, according to Barnwell. There's no firm timeline for when the development will occur, only that the mixed-use buildings and town homes would be built first in order to generate money for the rest of the project. The proposed development has roots much deeper than most projects that make it to Town Hall. It touches on age-old issues of land use, land ownership and quality of life for the descendants of slaves left behind on Hilton Head, where the Civil War ended early. The island was the first place captured by Union troops who were searching for a strategic deep water port. Barnwell has been outspoken on those issues, even testifying before Congress and serving on a civil rights committee during the Kennedy presidency.

He was born in 1935 to a midwife on the island, 21 years before the first swing-bridge over Skull Creek was built. He was educated in a two-room school house before attending classes at Penn School on St. Helena Island -- the first school built in 1862 for freed slaves -- and went on to university work.

As a young man, Barnwell drove Martin Luther King Jr. from the airport to Penn Center for a gathering of civil rights leaders. King called him "Brother Tom." In the early 1970s, he and other native islanders helped win the fight against a $100 million chemical plant that politicians wanted to build near the bridge to Hilton Head. Islanders felt it would have precluded the island from ever becoming a tourist destination or a desirable place to live.

Barnwell was a leader in a native-islander commercial fishing cooperative on the island at the time, and was adamant about protecting the environment. Barnwell has spent decades pushing for ways to improve the lives of the area's poorest residents. With coolers full of shrimp and oysters, he went to Washington seeking federal money when he founded the public-health service now known as Beaufort-Jasper-Hampton Comprehensive Health Services.

Friends call him a man of humility beneath his sometimes gruff and standoffish behavior. He used to drive an old pickup truck until his family finally persuaded him to buy a new truck. Barnwell is a lifelong entrepreneur and activist who has developed and maintained several successful housing tracts on the island. But he also drives a tractor and raises marsh tackies and goats, and grows collards and gourds on his land, all in the native island tradition.

"This project is not about my father or myself," said his son, Thomas Curtis Barnwell III. "It's about this young lady sitting here -- my daughter -- my niece and future generations. To let people know we're retaining our land. It has always been in our family and it will always be in our family.

"We're not just handing our property over to a developer," he continued. "We're retaining it."

Santa was nice, plus he brought beautiful weather !!

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:35:37 -0600

It sure has been nice this past week. My son and I went for a boat ride this past Saturday, and it was more like a early fall day than the end of December. The temperature was in the high 70's and the water was calm. We pretended we were fishing, but what we really wanted was to just get out on a beautiful day.

Hudson's Seafood Restaurant is a great place for local seafood in fall and winter months. Hudson's buys fresh local seafood from the docks, shrimp, fish, oysters. I only believe in buying fresh local seafood. Unfortunately, the many tourist that come to the island probably think that we have Salmon, Alaskan King Crabs, Talapia, and other imported or farm raised seafood. The local "fisherman" is a dying breed, so that is why I support restaurants that buy local seafood. [http://www.hudsonsonthedocks.com/]

Hilton Head obviously has "tourist" and I will be the 1st one to assist them (even to the embarrassment of family & friends). Elliott and I had been trying to fish (HaHa) and decided to go have lunch at another of our favorite restaurants Captain Woody's. [http://www.captainwoodys.com/] After we left we came across a rental boat with some tourist stranded on a sandbar with no clew about boating, and they did not speak English very well. So, we decided to see what we could do for them. We finally got a line to their boat and were able to get them off the sandbar (the tide was coming in and they would have gotten off sooner or later), but we felt good for what we had done.

Prior to going to lunch, when we were fishing we came across some other tourist enjoying the day on the water kayaking, unfortunately we also came across a recently abandon sailboat stuck up in the marsh. The taxpayers will have to pay to remove this boat, because it had obviously been stripped of anything of value.

If you want to enjoy the "Island Lifestyle" and in particular the water sports visit my friends at Outside Hilton Head. [http://www.outsidehiltonhead.com/]

This is a picture I took from the water of Windmill Harbour. It is a great place to live and is convenient to the island and Bluffton. Visit my Blog about Windmill Harbour. ( see Link Below Picture)

Call me if you would like to know more about our "Island Lifestyle"

Charlie B Fraser 2008

http://activerain.com/blogsview/849996/Windmill-Harbour-Community-Highlight

Windmill Harbour Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:37:05 -0600

Windmill Harbour was created in 1981 and is located on a 172-acre peninsula on the Intracoastal Waterway immediately after crossing the bridge from the mainland to Hilton Head Island. It is now the home of the South Carolina Yacht Club. The primary focal point is its 15-acre inland harbour (twice the size of Harbour Town) with an innovative, but simple, user-operated navigational lock that transports sailboats and powerboats from the tidal fluctuations of the adjacent Waterway into the stable waters of the yacht basin. A deep-water pier outside the harbour accommodates boaters picking up passengers and supplies, or those who wish merely to tie up for a short period of time. Up to 270 boat slips are also available. There is also a Sports Center serving both the pool and tennis court areas with dressing areas, saunas, an outdoor Jacuzzi pool, a large community pool and wading area for children, shower facilities and ample deck space for lounging or community gatherings. Windmill Harbour was designed solely for the use of property owners, residents and their guests.

The unique design of Windmill Harbour is the use of individually designed townhomes, patio homes and a few full size home sites. Views for homes include harbour, the Intracoastal Waterway with dramatic sunsets, marshes and wooded landscaped areas. The South Carolina Yacht Club is open for outside membership and has become one of the premiere social clubs on the island.

Community Highlights

Lock Harbour with 15 acre harbour
South Carolina Yacht Club, tennis courts and swimming pool
Private gated community
Located on Jenkins Island with easy access off island and convenient to the island.

View a Video of Windmill Harbour

http://www.fraserrealty.net/windmill-harbour.asp

Information provided by Charlie B Fraser & PDC

Wexford Plantation ... Hilton Head Island

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 10:35:08 -0600

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

29 Harrogate, Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Wexford plantation

3BR/4.5BA Single Family House

offered at $999,000

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	3,225
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	4 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This recently renovated beautiful 3 bedroom plus office, 4 1/2 bath mediterranean style home on quiet cul-de-sac. New brazilian hard wood floors, travevertine flooring. Fabulous gourmet kitchen, center island work center, stainless appliances. Dramatic open living and entertaining area with private heated pool.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Office/Den	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Granite countertop
Stainless steel appliances	Attic	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Swimming pool	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)
Tennis court(s)	Golf course	Gated property
Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 22, 2008, 7:59am PST

Wexford Plantation ... Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:09:07 -0600

When the Marathon Oil Company, previously Hilton Head Company, constructed Wexford Plantation in 1982, it intended to create the most exquisite residential community on the East Coast. It was designed for residents only and no villas or condominiums with the exception of townhomes. The community offers owners a welcoming clubhouse with swimming pool, tennis courts, on a picturesque setting at the community Mariana. The unique feature of the community is the lock harbour with access to Broad Creek, providing access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean. The lock harbour is one of only four lock systems on the U.S. Atlantic Coast. The lock system provides shelter for boat owners but also allows for a larger number of home sites to have docks. The canals meander throughout the community, and it not unusual to see a beautiful 50 foot yacht in one's back yard. The homes are all a variety of architecture and the landscaping well maintained throughout the community.

Community Highlights

William Byrd designed golf course
Community club house, swimming pool, tennis courts
Lock harbour with access to Broad Creek and Atlantic Ocean
Community marina
Private gated community with private security
Convenient mid island location and all island amenities

Photos courtesy of Weford Plantation POA

Wexford is truly a special place to call home. It has a viable and active club with activities ranging from kids tennis camps to the more serious club championships in both golf & tennis. The under utilized and by far the best feature is the unique locked harbor. For a boating enthusiast this is an ideal way to have a boat moored in a safe harbor. There is less wear and tear on a boat due to the very minimal flow of water, and the absence of fowl weather and boat traffic wave action protect boats from damage.

Real estate prices run the gammet and depending on your desires properties can be found to fit most budgets over $800,000. So, if I can help call me 843-290-0807 thanks Charlie B Fraser

FOR A VIDEO TOUR OF WEXFORD USE LINK BELOW

http://www.fraserrealty.net/wexford-plantation.asp

Long Cove Plantation ... Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:41:34 -0600

Several top executives of Sea Pines Company, Wes Wilhelm, Joe Webster, and David Aimes, went out and purchased what is currently Long Cove. The exclusive single family residential community concept, with no villas or condos, was a huge success. The development of Long Cove was a timely and tremendous success story for single family residential development. The Pete Dye golf course immediately got rave reviews among the golfing community and has since been a highly ranked golf course. The home sites have a range of settings from golf and lagoon, wooded, marsh or gorgeous views of Broad Creek. The resident's only golfing community was a new concept for residential developments at the time. In 1987 and the common properties, including all amenities, were deeded to the Long Cove Association. Membership is available only through property ownership, and rights are transferred through the transfer of property. Fees are based on whether the lot is improved or unimproved and includes Long Cove Country Club membership. Long Cove Club was designed around a unique "club" concept rather than the traditional structure of other residential plantations on Hilton Head. Membership in the club is automatic with purchase of a property. All members must pay the same assessment covering use of all of the amenities regardless of property values or residency status.

Long Cove paved the way for Colleton River, Belfaire and Berkley Hall all based on the concept of an exclusive golf club community.

Community Highlights

Pete Dye designed Golf Course .. One of SC top rated courses
Club House, locker rooms, pro shop, restaurant, bar/lounge
Har-Tru tennis courts
junior olympic swimming pool
Community farm and garden, plus open space.
71 slip deep water dock and kayak storage
Gated Community.

CLICK ON LINK BELOW FOR VIDEO TOUR OF LONG COVE

http://www.fraserrealty.net/long-cove.asp

LONG COVE POA WEBSITE

http://www.longcoveclub.org/Club/Scripts/Home/home.asp

(Photo of 18th Heron Pointe Sea Pines by Charlie Fraser)

Shipyard Plantation ... Community Highlights

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 14:12:43 -0600

Shipyard was the second planned community by the Hilton Head Company, but was oriented towards a residential as well as resort community. Situated on the ocean side of Highway #278, south of Palmetto Dunes, is Shipyard Plantation, one of the Hilton Head Island's original developments. Successfully blending a residential community with a renowned resort destination, Shipyard offers a full spectrum of amenities whether your stay is permanent, seasonal or for the few weeks of an Island vacation. Amenities at Shipyard include over four miles of trails for biking, jogging and roller-balding. Access to a long stretch of beach, said by many to be the areas finest, is through Shipyard Beach Club. Pools are available in all visitor areas and there are lagoons for fishing. Shipyard also benefits from the amenities of its resident resort, the Crowne Plaza. Shipyard has three 9-hole golf courses, famous for their three-time hosting of the Senior PGA Tour. But at Shipyard, it is tennis that rules supreme. Tennis Magazine has dubbed Shipyard Racquet Club, built for Billy Jean King, one of their "50 Greatest Tennis Resorts in America."

Community Highlights

Centrally located in the heart of Hilton Head
803-acre community
variety of single family homes in addition to villa (or condominium) residences and even rental properties
Golf - three 9- hole championship courses
Crowne Plaza Oceanfront resort
Shipyard Racquet Club - A Van Der Meer tennis facility

Shipyard Plantation stretches across over 800 wooded and fairway-lined acres between Palmetto Dunes and Sea Pines. It offers serene residential living as well as a secluded location for vacationers renting property or staying at the popular oceanfront Crowne Plaza Resort. The Van Der Meer Shipyard Racquet Club is also found within the plantation offering 14 clay and six hard tennis courts kept in magnificent condition. Three nine-hole golf courses, recognized as some of the best in the country by the Senior PGA Tour, are available to residents and visitors.

For Video of Shipyard Click Below

http://www.fraserrealty.net/shipyard.asp

Hilton Head Island - Shipyard Plantation - Evian Villa

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 14:04:01 -0600

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

70 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC

Evian Villa - Shipyard - Hilton Head

2BR/2BA Condo

offered at $329,000

Year Built	1983
Sq Footage	1,335
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Public/Internet Remarks
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This 2 br/2ba Evian has everything. A lower level end unit with lagoon and golf view of the 6th hole of the Brigantine Course. Freshly painted with crown molding throughout. Both bathrooms have been completely remodeled with new vanities, floors, mirrors and countertops. The kitchen has also been renovated. This is a must see unit. Great rental unit.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Tile floor
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Washer	Dryer
Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Swimming pool(s)

Golf course

Gated property

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 2, 2008, 11:20am PST

Sea Pines Plantation - Community Highlight

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:19:52 -0600

In 1956, Charles Fraser developed Sea Pines into the first private plantation community on the island. Sea Pines is one of the largest residential and resort plantations on Hilton Head spanning 5,200 acres. The community is most famous for its three championship golf courses, including the Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the PGA Tour's annual. Verizon's Heritage of Golf - The Heritage of Golf. Sea Pines is also associated with the world-recognized Harbour Town Marina and its landmark red-and-white-striped lighthouse, built in 1969 to aid boats traveling on the Calibogue Sound. The marina hosts awe-inspiring yachts as large as 115 feet. Its charming shops, restaurants and outdoor activities are open to the public. Sea Pines has a lush, 605-acre forest preserve, access to five miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches, over 100 tennis courts, two security gates and numerous swimming pools. It is also the location of the South Beach Racquet Club, Sea Pines Racquet Club, Lawton Stables equestrian center, and restaurants and outdoor activities held at South Beach Marina Village.

Community Highlights

The island's oldest and original resort communities

Two marinas: Harbour Town Yacht Basin & South Beach Marina Village
Two racquet Clubs: Harbour Town Racquet Club and South Beach Racquet Club,
Numerous restaurants, shopping, and live entertainment
Approximately 5000 acres of lush semitropical topography
605-acre Sea Pines forest preserve
Atlantic Ocean on the east, and the Calibogue sound to the west
Championship courses, or tennis and beach combing
The Verizon Heritage of Golf (hosted at the Harbour Town Golf Links)

Special Features: Beach, Tennis, Golf, Horseback riding, Water Sports, Marinas, Shops, Restaurants, Nature Preserve.

Sea Pines was the original planned development on the Island, and became the model for those that followed. The "Grandfather" of Island Plantations was founded in 1956 by Charles Fraser as part of a Master Plan to harmonize architecture with its natural surroundings. The concept became an environmental standard mirrored throughout other communities on Hilton Head - and the world.

For a number of years Sea Pines and Hilton Head were synonymous. In fact, the candy striped lighthouse in Harbour Town has come to symbolize the Island and its sensitive mix of residential and visitor oriented developments and recreational facilities blended harmoniously into their natural surroundings

For more information about Sea Pines CLICK ON "View My Listings" under LINKS.

Copy Right Performance Development Corporation

FOR A VIDEO OF SEA PINES CLICK LINK BELOW

http://www.fraserrealty.net/sea-pines-plantation.asp

Hilton Head .... Yacht Cove

Charlie Fraser (Charles Fraser Realty Group) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:17:42 -0600

Charlie B Fraser | Charles Fraser Realty Group | 843-290-0807

37 Cobblestone Court, Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head .. Yacht Cove

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $324,900

Year Built	1998
Sq Footage	1,500
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Centrally Located in Yacht Cove. 3 Br 2 1/2 Ba Home with tons of upgrades by loacal Builder/Owner! Fresh paint inside. First floor has Tile and Hardwood flooring, Upgraded Milworks thoughout with waiscot panels and 2 and 3 piece crown molding. Kitchen has granite countertops and Stainless Aplliances. New Oil Rubbed Bronze Door Hardware and Carpet. Master Bedroom has New Handscraped Oak Flooring and His/Her Closets. Finished Garage with Storage. Private Deck out back. OSCLREA

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Living room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances	Washer
Dryer

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Clubhouse

Swimming pool(s)

Tennis court(s)

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Charlie B Fraser

Charles Fraser Realty Group

843-290-0807

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 17, 2008, 6:53am PST