Upstate SC Blog

Upstate SC Blog http://activerain.com/blogs/mrbrian News, reviews, opinions about everything and anything in Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties in Upstate SC! en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/1369239/procrastinate-now- Procrastinate Now! <p>While "Procrastinate Now!" might be a humorous title for this entry, it will not be a laughing matter for the owners of <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=89" title="Hartwell Lake SC information" target="_blank">Hartwell Lake</a> properties on January 1st!</p> <p>You see any Hartwell Lake shoreline permit holders who have a permit that was issued more than one year ago and have not installed a dock by Jan. 1, 2010, will forfeit the dock portion of their permit!</p> <p>If the property owner fails to install the dock by the deadline, then they will lose the boat dock portion of the shoreline use permit for six months.</p> <p>If you miss the deadline, you can reapply, but you just might find out that the rules for securing a dock permit have changed in the past few years. Some people in certain circumstances might also lose their dock permit permanently. And when it comes to the value of a Hartwell Lake property, whether or not there is a dock in place makes a world of difference. Both in the price and the amount of people interested in it.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Anyone with any questions should call Sandy Campbell, chief ranger at the lake at 1-(888) 893-0678, ext. 315.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">If you would like to find out about homes, land or lake lots for sale on Hartwell Lake, please contact me!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:31:35 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1369239/procrastinate-now- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1369107/south-carolina-dnr-stocks-broadway-lake-with-bluegill South Carolina DNR Stocks Broadway Lake with Bluegill <p>The SC Department of Natural Resources released 125,000 bluegill fingerlings yesterday into <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=87" title="Broadway Lake SC information" target="_blank">Broadway Lake</a> in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=57" title="Anderson County SC information" target="_blank">Anderson County</a>. The bluegill, which averaged about 1-inch in length, were in excellent condition when released into the lake.</p> <p>The DNR is also checking into possibly obtaining some redear sunfish fingerlings for Broadway Lake. Also they are planning on releasing approximately 15,000 largemouth bass fingerlings in spring 2010.</p> <p>So it sounds like there will be some pretty good fishing on Broadway Lake next year. If you would like to find out about homes for sale on Broadway Lake or any of the other lakes in Anderson, Oconee or Pickens counties please contact me.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:19:15 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1369107/south-carolina-dnr-stocks-broadway-lake-with-bluegill http://activerain.com/blogsview/1366625/anderson-city-fire-department-museum Anderson City Fire Department Museum <p>f you are looking for a cheap way to entertain yourself then I suggest checking out the Anderson City Fire Department Museum located at 400 S McDufie St in Anderson. Admission is FREE! I stopped by today to get some pictures for this blog entry and was amazed by the many different vehicles and fire fighting equipment from years ago. I really suggest that you take the time to stop by and check it out.</p> <p><img title="Anderson SC City Fire Museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/1/1/3/8/ar125987258583119.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City Fire Museum" width="640" /></p> <p>The city of Anderson was incorporated in 1826 but did not have anything more than a bucket brigade until 1885 when the city purchased a used Steamer. Before that they were using sheer physical effort with bucket brigades and devices such as this hand pulled hose cart below.</p> <p><img title="Anderson SC City Fire Museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/8/6/3/6/ar125987279363683.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City Fire Museum" width="640" /></p> <p>In 1915 the fire department was reorganized, and the town hired a full-time crew, adding its first motorized pumper from Seagraves. My pictures cannot do justice to these amazing and historic vehicles. Other amazing fire fighting equipment from the past that you can see at the Anderson City Fire Department Museum include:</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/7/6/6/4/ar125987302946679.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>A 1880s Horsedrawn Fire Fighting Wagon</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/5/8/5/0/ar125987308905856.jpg" height="471" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">  <strong>1911 American LaFrance Hose & Chemical Truck </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/6/5/6/4/ar125987327746561.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1915 Seagrave Motor Pumping Engine</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/9/7/0/0/ar125987333800799.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>1919 Seagrave Motor Pumping Engine</strong></p> <p>The museum also features other antique fire fighting equipment. One of the most amazing things is the fire fighter's helmet that was partially melted by the heat from a fire, which of course was being worn by one of these brave firefighters during a heroic battle with a fire!</p> <p><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/4/9/0/8/ar125987342080944.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Imagine Jumping out of Burning Building Years Ago</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Anderson SC City fire museum" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/6/2/4/ar125987357242676.jpg" height="480" alt="Anderson SC City fire museum" width="640" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Actual Ticker Tape Predecessor to the High Tech 911 Systems of Today</strong></p> <p>The current Main Fire Station, where the Museum is located, was built in 1985. The building has been called one of the finest in the state and is surely a source of pride for all the residents of Anderson. Without a doubt, it is something that everyone should take the time to see for themselves. And if you, or a member of your family has any firefighting memorabilia from the city of Anderson, please consider making a gift to this fine museum!</p> <p>The Anderson City Fire Department Museum is open Monday to Friday from 9AM to 5PM and by appointment and can be reached at (864) 231-2256</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:00:19 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1366625/anderson-city-fire-department-museum http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363121/are-you-sure-you-want-my-opinion- Are You Sure You Want My Opinion? <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left; padding-left: 120px;"><span class="entry-content"><strong>My psychiatrist told me I'm going crazy.</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left; padding-left: 120px;"><span class="entry-content"><strong> I told him, if you don't mind I'd like a 2nd opinion.</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left; padding-left: 120px;"><span class="entry-content"><strong> He said, Alright, you're ugly too! <em>R.Dangerfield</em></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">And you know what else is crazy & ugly? Inflating the market value of a home to persuade a homeowner to list their home with you! As a matter of fact, it is a serious violation of the NAR Code of Ethics!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt; text-align: justify; padding-left: 30px;"><strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000041;">•</span></strong><strong><span> </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000041;">Standard of Practice 1-3</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.3pt; text-align: justify; padding-left: 30px;"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-variant: small-caps; color: #000041;">Realtors</span><sup><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000041;">®</span></sup><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000041;">, in attempting to secure a listing, shall not deliberately mislead the owner as to market value.</span></p> <p>Sadly, this practice is so widespread that there is even a nickname for it: <em>Buying the Listing</em>. I hope you will take the time to think about what I say when I suggest a listing price for your home, because I am not going to beat around the bush.</p> <p> </p> <p>You are an adult. There is no need to sugar coat it with you, is there? I am sure you would rather me be completely honest and not give you a fairy tale about how much your home is worth.</p> <p>I can usually give a ballpark value right away, but for a real in depth analysis, it is best that I dig into the MLS & the tax records to research the correct market value of your home.</p> <p>When I perform a CMA for your home, I will need to see your home and then look at all the homes that are similar and have sold recently. Then I will also look at all the similar homes on the market today and we will have to decide on a pricing & marketing strategy that makes your home more attractive to more buyers.</p> <p>If you are thinking about selling your home or maybe even a parcel of land in the <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=8" title="Upstate SC map" target="_blank">Upstate SC</a> area that I work, and would like a <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=6" title="Free CMA" target="_blank">FREE CMA</a>, then please contact me so we can set up a time to talk about the local real estate market and how it relates to your property.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:25:24 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363121/are-you-sure-you-want-my-opinion- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363054/take-the-stress-out-of-homebuying Take the Stress Out of Homebuying <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">I found this article in some of the information that NAR gives to REALTOR</span><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">® members to help their clients when buying a home and I thought it was a pretty good article. </span><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">Buying a home should be fun, not stressful. As you look for your dream home, keep in mind these tips for making the process as peaceful as possible. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">1. Find a real estate agent who you connect with. </span></strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the REALTOR® you chose is both highly skilled and a good fit with your personality.<br /> <br /> <strong>2. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, just as there’s no perfect time to sell.</strong> If you find a home now, don’t try to second-guess interest rates or the housing market by waiting longer — you risk losing out on the home of your dreams. The housing market usually doesn’t change fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won’t stay on the market long.<br /> <br /> <strong>3. Don’t ask for too many opinions.</strong> It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas from too many people will make it much harder to make a decision. Focus on the wants and needs of your immediate family — the people who will be living in the home.<br /> <br /> <strong>4. Accept that no house is ever perfect.</strong> If it’s in the right location, the yard may be a bit smaller than you had hoped. The kitchen may be perfect, but the roof needs repair. Make a list of your top priorities and focus in on things that are most important to you. Let the minor ones go.<br /> <br /> <strong>5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator.</strong> Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price or by refusing to budge on your offer may cost you the home you love. Negotiation is give and take.<br /> <br /> <strong>6. Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum.</strong> Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself — room size, kitchen, etc. — that you forget about important issues as noise level, location to amenities, and other aspects that also have a big impact on your quality of life. <br /> <br /> <strong>7. Plan ahead.</strong> Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate home insurance, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers. <br /> <br /> <strong>8. Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-home buying budget.</strong> Even if you buy a new home, there will be costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.<br /> <br /> <strong>9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass.</strong> Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big financial commitment. But it also yields big benefits. Don’t lose sight of why you wanted to buy a home and what made you fall in love with the property you purchased.<br /> <br /> <strong>10. Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation.</strong> While </span><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">U.S.</span><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"> homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually over from 1998 to 2002, a home’s most important role is to serve as a comfortable, safe place to live.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">To find out more about real estate in Upstate South Carolina, please contact me!</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:44:43 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363054/take-the-stress-out-of-homebuying http://activerain.com/blogsview/1355418/leveling-the-playing-field Leveling the Playing Field <p>Fannie Mae has announced <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB20001424052748703819904574556101078713562.html" title="Fannie levels the playing field" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">they are going to level the playing field</a> for people looking to buy a foreclosed home to live in when they have to compete against investors. This program will be called First Look, and it is intended to help the problems that many buyers have beating investors in buying foreclosed homes. Fannie says it plans to consider offers only from potential owner-occupants and certain public-housing entities during the first 15 days in which a foreclosed home is on the market.</p> <p>If the potential buyer is making a good offer, with proof of funds, will this move help the owner occupant offers beat the investors with their cash offers with no contingencies? Because most owner occupant buyers are making an offer contingent on financing, contingent on inspections, appraisals, etc etc. And this is the reason why the owner occupant buyers are getting beat by the investors in my opinion.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>If You Snooze You Will Lose!</strong></p> <p>If you are truly serious and motivated about buying a foreclosed home, then I suggest that you contact me to set up a time that we can sit down and discuss your home buying needs, the reality of the market and what you must do to get a great deal. I know what works, what doesn't and what you must do <em>before</em> you even look at the first home to have a chance at getting a foreclosed home in Upstate SC at a great price. I have listed foreclosed homes, sold foreclosed homes, and even bought a foreclosed home myself. So if you are serious about buying a home in Upstate SC, and you are ready to hire me as your buyers agent then contact me!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:56:41 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1355418/leveling-the-playing-field http://activerain.com/blogsview/1355128/you-must-crawl-before-you-can-walk You Must Crawl Before You Can Walk <p>This morning I received an email from a person looking for rent to own home. I am constantly getting emails from people looking for this type of deal. There is a reason I avoid these types of deals!</p> <p>No matter how badly you want to own a home today, this type of financing is not always the answer. Ask yourself: Why is someone willing to sell me a home in a way that does not benefit them as much as it seems to benefit me? Do you really think they are doing this out of the kindness of their heart?</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Talk to Your Lender!</strong></p> <p>The first step in buying a home is talking with a lender. At least take the time to see what they say! Even if you are unable to obtain a mortgage from a reputable lending institution, you will at least know the reasons why. And then you can work on improving your credit. There is absolutely nothing wrong with renting while working to improve your credit and saving more down payment! It is much better to wait until you are ready than to rush into such a major financial decision and become the victim of a scam.</p> <p>Heck, some people rent all their lives and there is absolutely nothing wrong with this either. For some people, renting is just a better decision. I rented for many years because I liked the idea that I could quit my job, pack my car and move 1000 miles at the drop of a hat. And I did it several times!</p> <p>Pretty hard to do that if you must sell a home! But I eventually grew older, a little wiser and settled down. I found the love of my life and an area that I was happy to stay in the rest of my life. So buying made sense, but only after I talked to my lender and investigated my mortgage options.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Low Down Payment?</strong></p> <p>If you have not saved a down payment that will more than cover the normal sellers expenses, why would they be willing to take a chance on you? As much as I wish the world was a better place and people did not lie, and people did not take advantage of others for their own benefit, it happens. Why let your eagerness to own a home before you are ready be your downfall?</p> <p>If you do not have more down payment than what the seller would get as deposit from a renter why would they want to sell the home to you? Think about it, if the normal deposit is first and last months rent, and you are not offering a lot more than this as down payment, why would a seller accept it?</p> <p>The seller may be planning on you NOT being able to keep up your end of the deal so that you lose your downpayment and any extra you have been paying each month.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Monthly Payment</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">Many rent to own deals will have a monthly payment that is higher than the normal rent for a similar property and the extra you are paying is supposed to apply to the purchase price when you do buy the home. Sounds great as long as you can qualify for a mortgage at the time specified in the contract. Because if you cannot, all the money you overpaid every month may be forfeited! So not just your down payment, but also the extra money you paid every month is gone.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Purchase Price</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">At one time, in this area, there was a guy doing a boatload of rent to own transactions. Most never closed, and the reason why was the inflated purchase price. Even if you can get a mortgage when it comes time to exercise your option to purchase, if the purchase price of the home you have been "renting" is well above what the property will appraise for, no bank will lend you the money. And then the seller keeps your down payment, all the extra you paid every month, and you have to find a new place to live! And the seller still owns the home and pulls the same scheme again on another buyer that just had to try a rent to own purchase. The seller will of course say they did nothing wring, that the buyer is an adult and read the contracts-but do you really think they did not do anything wrong?</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Is Rent to Own a Scam?</strong></p> <p>So is rent to own always a scam? No! But maybe if you Google <a href="http://www.google.com/search?q=rent+to+own+scams&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a" title="rent to own scams on google" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rent to Own Scams</a> and see that what I am saying has been said many many times by other people in other places! It can work, but there are many many problems for both the buyer and the seller with rent to own homes! I could go on and on with the various pitfalls of rent to own but I think it might be better if you hear it from someone else besides just me.</p> <p>I am sure you have heard of HUD. If you are not familiar with HUD they are a government agency that exists to increase homeownership, support community development and increase access to affordable housing free from discrimination. So is HUD going to lie to you? NO! They are not in the business of selling homes, they are in existence to protect you! Not to make money!</p> <p>Why not check out the <a href="http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/topics/buying_a_home" title="HUD website about buying a home" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HUD website about buying a home</a> and get some of the best non-biased information about buying a home that you can find anywhere. Did they say anything about how rent to own is a good idea? NO! Did they even mention it? NO! Why would they promote a method to scam people?</p> <p>So after checking out these websites, and researching rent to own, you have decided that you still are going to go ahead with one a rent to own home? Then I have one last suggestion:</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Hire an Attorney to Represent You! </strong></p> <p>When I say hire an attorney, I mean do not use the seller's attorneys! You must hire an attorney to work for you and make sure you are not taken advantage of. Also do not sign the paperwork or contracts and then have the attorney look at it! Do not sign anything until after your attorney says it is OK!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>But Why is Mark Telling Me This?</strong></p> <p>I am a REALTOR so it goes without saying that I think that buying a home is a great idea. But I am also honest that if you are not ready to take on this huge financial step, you cannot rush it! Sure I get paid when I sell real estate. My ability to sleep soundly at night because I know I have not taken advantage of anyone will always be more important than making a commission check. But you need to know the ugly but honest truth about rent to own deals. They are not always as good as they sound!</p> <p>Plus I am tired of getting the emails and feeling bad for these people. I know they will not believe me and are determined to own, no matter what. Well with this blog, I have officially warned the world. If you choose to hang yourself, I am not handing you the rope! From now on when people email me about rent to own homes, my reply will always be a link to this blog.</p> <p>Sure, rent to own might work out in everybody's favor sometimes. But the truth is if a deal sounds too good to be true, it is. If you are not financially ready to buy a home then maybe owning a home is not right for you today. There is a world of difference between owning a home and renting.</p> <p>We were all babies once and we all had to learn to crawl before we walked. It is no different with real estate.</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:40:56 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1355128/you-must-crawl-before-you-can-walk http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351901/anderson-toy-parade Anderson Toy Parade <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sunday, Nov. 29</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">With the Holiday season upon us it is time again for the “Anderson Toy Parade”! The 29th annual Jack Hurley ANDERSON TOY PARADE will once again conclude at the Civic Center of Anderson parking lot on Sunday, Nov. 29.<br /><br />The event will help underprivileged children wake up to find a toy from Santa on Christmas morning! The Toy Parade will start at 2 p.m. in the White Jones Hardware parking lot on South Main Street, and will conclude at the Civic Center of Anderson parking lot later in the afternoon. Spectators are also encouraged to donate a toy! The parade will travel down Main Street, then turn onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., and then Camson Road before entering the Civic Center parking lot.<br /><br />The toys will be collected in the parking lot of the Civic Center and donated to the Department of Social Services. To enter, bring at least one toy for a child age 10-and-under. Only licensed motorcycle riders and vehicles are permitted (age 16-up). The motorcycles will ride two abreast, and no passing is allowed. <br /><br />The event, dedicated to the memory of Charles and Diane Bolt, is being sponsored by the Confederates Motorcycle Club & Friends, and the Independent-Mail. </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><strong>For more information, call Donna Cole at Stoney’s Mufflers at 225-7856.</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="anderson toy parade" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/6/7/9/0/ar125900541209761.jpg" height="310" alt="anderson toy parade" width="264" /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:44:01 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351901/anderson-toy-parade http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351582/i-ve-often-wanted-to-drown-my-troubles-but-i-can-t-get-my-wife-to-go-swimming-jimmy-carter I've often wanted to drown my troubles, but I can't get my wife to go swimming.- Jimmy Carter <p>Well the former President might also have a problem if he lived in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=71" title="Starr South Carolina information" target="_blank">Starr</a> or <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=65" title="Iva South Carolina information" target="_blank">Iva</a> in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=57" title="Anderson SC information" target="_blank">Anderson County SC</a> since there are areas that do not have public water available to fill the pool. Maybe that is about to change since Starr-Iva Water and Sewer District has been selected to receive a $3.2 million loan and a $2.7 million grant to provide new water system to more than 400 residents of Anderson County. The new system will replace individual wells - many with poor water quality. The new water system will allow for better fire protection services and economic development opportunities for the community.</p> <p>This money is coming from the $117.3 million in water and environmental project loans and grants that are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today . <span> </span>You can see the article <a href="http://www.andersoncountysc.org/web/News_01.asp?News_ID=589" title="Starr-Iva water improvement article" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>I have had many buyers that loved a property but once they found out there was not public water available they said they did not want the property. And I cannot blame them because my home had a well when I bought it. Notice that key word: <em>had</em>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I hooked up to public water when my well went out because it was so much cheaper than another well. And I wonder how many people have not thought about the value that will be added to their property just by having public water. Or thought about the value of having both public water for your home and a well to use for washing the car, watering the garden and even filling a pool if it is filtered correctly. Because believe me that buyers think about well water versus public water. And it may mean the difference between selling or not.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:43:57 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351582/i-ve-often-wanted-to-drown-my-troubles-but-i-can-t-get-my-wife-to-go-swimming-jimmy-carter http://activerain.com/blogsview/1349418/good-news-for-anderson-south-carolina Good News for Anderson South Carolina <p>It has been almost a month ago that I blogged about the <a href="http://honest-but-ugly.com/post/1286950/post-office-in-south-anderson-possibly-closing" title="possible closing of post office in Anderson SC" target="_blank">possible closing of the post office in Anderson SC</a>. But I am glad to report that the South Anderson branch post office has been removed from a list of branches being considered for closing by the United States Postal Service!</p> <p>I do not understand how or why this post office was selected, but now the point seems to be moot. The important thing is this very important decision will mean so much to the residents of the south side of <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=60" title="Anderson south carolina information" target="_blank">Anderson</a>.</p> <p>With my office just down the street from this post office on S Main Street in Anderson, it would have been an inconvenience for me. But for the older people that live on this side of town, it would have meant a trip to the other side of town. Instead of being able to walk to the post office, many would have been forced to drive or take the bus just to go to the post office. Not very green is it?</p> <p>I am sure you have seen the recent news about how much money the post office lost in the past year. But closing post offices will not help them to make more money. Intelligent business decision are needed to increase revenues and cut costs. Not shutting down the cornerstone of a community!</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Hold your horses and stop the presses because today the Independent is saying they may still close the post office <a href="http://www.independentmail.com/news/2009/nov/23/fate-south-anderson-post-office-still-undecided/" title="Independent article" target="_blank">here</a>.  Upated : 11-24-09</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Sat, 21 Nov 2009 19:19:33 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1349418/good-news-for-anderson-south-carolina http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348200/the-spirit-of-christmas-at-the-brooks-center-in-clemson-sc The Spirit of Christmas at the Brooks Center in Clemson SC <p>Be sure to mark your calendars and make sure to purchase tickets early for <em>The Spirit of Christmas</em> at the Brooks Center in Clemson. The press release describes this as a holiday theatrical performance takes you on a magical journey to a winter wonderland of fun and festive cheer.</p> <p>There will be gorgeous costumes, wonderful Christmas songs, and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole. This glittering Christmas spectacular will delight your entire family so make plans to bring everyone for a great time.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>To find out more or to purchase tickets visit the <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/Brooks/index.php" title="Brooks Center website" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brooks Center Website</a></strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:57:49 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348200/the-spirit-of-christmas-at-the-brooks-center-in-clemson-sc http://activerain.com/blogsview/1347208/-30k-price-drop-for-this-lake-hartwell-waterfront-lot-with-dock-in-place- $30K Price Drop for this Lake Hartwell Waterfront Lot with Dock in Place <p>Lake Hartwell waterfront lot with dock in place! Good water! Gentle slope leading to open water. Lot sits on large cove off Fair Play Branch. Lot is in sight of I-85 bridge between exits 1 & 2, which gives you ready access to the Tugaloo or Fair Play Branch. Platform dock currently on property will pass with the lot, but verbal Ok from COE for larger covered dock.</p> <p><img title="hartwell lake south carolina" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/7/9/3/8/ar125873092783972.jpg" height="306" alt="hartwell lake south carolina" width="426" /></p> <p><span>Property marketed by Mark Brian, Realtor @ Silver Star Real Estate 864-353-1253 To see more pictures and details of this property please visit <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=listingview&listingID=5" title="Hartwell Lake lot for sale" target="_blank">Hartwell Lake SC Lot for Sale</a><br /></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:30:33 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1347208/-30k-price-drop-for-this-lake-hartwell-waterfront-lot-with-dock-in-place- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1346025/celebrate-the-season-in-anderson-sc Celebrate the Season in Anderson SC <p><img title="celebrate the season in anderson sc" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/4/5/4/ar125866073845488.jpg" height="310" alt="celebrate the season in anderson sc" width="264" style="float: left;" />Greater Anderson Musical Arts Consortium, or <a href="http://www.gamac.org/" title="GAMAC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GAMAC</a> will present Celebrate the Season on Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 8PM at the Rainey Fine Arts Center on the campus of Anderson University. This has been an Anderson holiday tradition for many years, and this year is no different as this annual Christmas performance will feature the GAMAC Orchestra, Chorale, Boychoir, Girl Choir and Youth Chorus. </p> <p> </p> <p>Tickets to this event are expected to sell quickly! Reserve your seats today! Prices are $25.00 for adults and $12.00 for students.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>To purchase tickets, please call the GAMAC office at (864) 231-6147.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:50 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1346025/celebrate-the-season-in-anderson-sc http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345805/why-this-20000-could-be-a-great-long-term-investment-for-oconee-county Why This $20000 Could Be a Great Long Term Investment for Oconee County <p>I read an <a href="http://www.upstatetoday.com/news/2009/nov/19/oconee-cvb-plans-hotel-conference-center-study/" title="upstate today article" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">article</a> today about how <a href="http://www.scmountainlakes.com/" title="Oconee CVB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Oconee CVB</a> has requested and received $20000 to do a study about  building a hotel/conference center. And at first it might seem that in this economy any spending needs to be scrutinized. But if we are thinking about long term growth and adding jobs it could be a great thing for Oconee County to host conferences at a Hotel/Convention Center.</p> <p>Why? Well getting businesses to become more aware of our area is always going to be a good idea. Also every person that goes to a conference is also going to become aware of all the fantastic recreational facilities such as the golf course and lakes that are in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=58" title="Oconee County SC information" target="_blank">Oconee County</a>. There is no doubt this is an expensive self promotional undertaking but unless we work towards long term growth, both by attracting new businesses and new residents, we will never be able to move forward. there will be jobs created by the Hotel/Convention center itself, but the real benefit will be attracting more businesses to Oconee County.</p> <p>The article also talks about is how this study could help county officials. County officials could use the information to help them to decide what project they’d be willing to help with incentives or other financial help. To me, this is where we must really watch the money. But using a little money to help us make a more informed decision can only help us get the best type of facility that will contribute to the most to the growth of Oconee County.</p> <p>We are all aware of the work to have more businesses come to the southern portion of Oconee County recently by expanding sewer service. But we cannot forget about how blessed we are with the natural beauty of our area. And we can take advantage of the scenic wonder that is Oconee County by using it to recruit new businesses and residents. Imagine a conference of one hundred business owners seeing the beauty of Oconee County and all these business owners having the subliminal suggestion implanted in the back of their minds about how great it would be to relocate to Upstate South Carolina. With the work on the expansion of sewer service in southern Oconee County and a method to get more visitors to Oconee County, this could be the one-two combination we need to attract more businesses!</p> <p>If it is done intelligently and with an eye on getting the most bang for our buck, then there is no doubt that this could be a great tool for helping Oconee County grow in ways we never imagined in the past!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:13:08 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345805/why-this-20000-could-be-a-great-long-term-investment-for-oconee-county http://activerain.com/blogsview/1344004/you-will-not-be-punished-for-your-anger-you-will-be-punished-by-your-anger-buddha You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger- Buddha <p class="MsoNormal"><img title="Buddha" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/2/1/9/ar125856969491269.jpg" height="232" alt="Buddha" width="310" style="float: left;" /><span class="entry-content">In this market, it seems that many potential real estate buyers in Upstate South Carolina want to get the best possible deal and are too willing to ignore the sage advice of their REALTOR. And while it is admirable to get a good deal, submitting offers based upon what you feel instead of the comps is a good way to anger a seller.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> But should a seller ignore a lowball offer? I say never ignore any offer, even if the offer is so low and so unrealistic that it angers you. Do not bite your nose off to spite your face!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> Counter my fine friends! Counter and be willing to negotiate. I understand the annoyance of people submitting offers that are based upon fairy tales and wishful thinking. But at least it is a starting point for negotiations. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">Please do not think that a lowball offer should not anger you, and do not let your anger punish you by not countering a lowball offer. Instead realize your opponent in the negotiations just showed us their ignorance of Upstate South Carolina real estate market conditions and trends. We can use our knowledge to defeat them or at least send them scurrying away with their tail tucked between their legs when faced with the reality that you have the most powerful of allies: a REALTOR!<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> Instead of refusing to counter, we can use this opportunity to sell your home at your price! </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:47:13 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1344004/you-will-not-be-punished-for-your-anger-you-will-be-punished-by-your-anger-buddha http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343978/12-tips-for-hiring-a-remodeling-contractor 12 Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor <p>I found this handy list and thought I would share it since so many people are looking to remodel or update their Upstate South Carolina home before they put them on the market.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">1.</span></strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"> Get at least three written estimates.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>2.</strong> Check references. If possible, view earlier jobs the contractor completed. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>3.</strong> Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau for complaints.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>4.</strong> Be sure the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>5.</strong> Make as small of a down payment as possible so you won’t lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>6. </strong>Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, and insurance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>7.</strong> Check that the contract states when the work will be completed and what recourse you have if it isn’t. Also, remember that in many instances you can cancel a contract within three business days of signing it. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>8. </strong>Ask if the contractor’s workers will do the entire job or whether subcontractors will be involved too.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>9. </strong>Get the contractor to indemnify you if work does not meet any local building codes or regulations. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>10.</strong> Be sure that the contract specifies the contractor will clean up after the job and be responsible for any damage. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>11. </strong>Guarantee that the materials that will be used meet your specifications. </span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"><br /> <strong>12.</strong> Don’t make the final payment until you’re satisfied with the work.</span></p> <p> </p> <p>Reprinted from REALTOR Magazine (realtor.org/realtormag) with the permission of the National Association of REALTORS. Copyright 2008 All rights reserved</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:21:05 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343978/12-tips-for-hiring-a-remodeling-contractor http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343950/cub-court-westminster-south-carolina Cub Court Westminster South Carolina <p>Enjoy a pleasant 4 season climate with this affordable lot for a vacation or retirement home. Many amenities including pool, tennis, fitness facility, club house,boat ramp, full time patrolling security, playground, banquet facilities, game room, and much more. Located in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=78" target="_blank">Westminster South Carolina</a>, this land has easy access to I85 & only 97 miles from Atlanta! Tasteful architectural guidelines for homes and great ammenities plus friendly neighbors in a peacefull relaxed atmosphere! This lot has nice hardwoods and is almost as flat as a pancake! Must see! Motivated seller asking $7500</p> <p><img title="westminster sc land for sale" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/0/7/0/ar125856736807089.jpg" height="480" alt="westminster sc land for sale" width="640" /></p> <p><span>Property marketed by Mark Brian, Realtor @ Silver Star Real Estate 864-353-1253 To see more pictures and details of this property please visit <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=listingview&listingID=39" title="westminster sc land for sale" target="_blank">Westminster SC Land for Sale</a><br /></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:08:13 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343950/cub-court-westminster-south-carolina http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343815/how-pumpkin-pie-is-really-made How Pumpkin Pie is Really Made <p><img title="how pumpkin pie is made" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/3/6/3/4/ar125856248343639.jpg" height="552" alt="how pumpkin pie is made" width="450" /></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:42:35 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1343815/how-pumpkin-pie-is-really-made http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342869/growth-in-oconee-county-south-carolina Growth in Oconee County South Carolina <p>Today the SC Department of Commerce and Oconee County announced a local company, Greenfield Industries is expanding. greenfield plans to invest $18 million and add 85 jobs in the next 5 years.</p> <p>The company is planning to add 50,000 square feet to its current facility. The expansion will allow the company to consolidate some operations and add a North American Distribution Center.</p> <p>Greenfield Industries plans to begin hiring for the new positions this month through Phillips Staffing in Seneca.</p> <p>I have no doubt that this is just the beginning of many companies looking to either expand their current operations in Upstate SC or for companies from all over the world to open new facilities in our area. There is no doubt that our business-friendly climate and skilled workforce provide the solid foundation businesses need to grow and succeed.</p> <p>And considering the projected number of people looking to relocate to Upstate South Carolina, it is a great sign that Oconee County is getting a head start on making sure there are plenty of jobs!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:52:56 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342869/growth-in-oconee-county-south-carolina http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342059/151-quail-hollow-circle-westminster-sc 151 Quail Hollow Circle Westminster SC <h3 style="text-align: center;">Solitude at a Bargain Price</h3> <p><img title="westminster south carolina land for sale" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/4/2/3/3/ar125848001533241.jpg" height="480" alt="westminster south carolina land for sale" width="640" /></p> <p>This lot for sale in Westminster is an incredible opportunity to own a wonderful lot in the Panola section of Foxwood Hills. Close to I85. Many wonderful amenities such as Fishing, Boating,Olympic Size Swimming Pool, Play Area, Security Patrols, Boat Ramp, Golf, Tennis Courts. Nice hardwoods and gentle slope. Peace and quiet with a wonderful 4 season climate. Asking $13000 but the motivated seller has said to make all offers known!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:48:50 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1342059/151-quail-hollow-circle-westminster-sc http://activerain.com/blogsview/1341871/if-passion-drives-you-let-reason-hold-the-reins-benjamin-franklin If Passion Drives You, Let Reason Hold the Reins-Benjamin Franklin <p class="MsoNormal">I have discovered that many homes buyers in Upstate SC are not reasonable when it comes to the cold hard facts. No matter what you have heard regarding the housing market, just because you want to buy a home at a really low price does not mean it will always happen. When looking to purchase a home, everyone wants a great price for the perfect home. But honestly, if it is not realistic, I will tell you. If the recently sold comps do not support your price, I am going to tell you. There are steps to take to make your offer more attractive to sellers and I will tell you what you must do to make it possible to get a great deal! And a realistic price is just the beginning.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But what if you want to sell your home and want to get a price that honestly is not going to happen? I am going to have to be the bearer of bad news! I understand you want more money for your home. But if the market will not support the price you had in mind, I am sorry. As much as I want to get more money for your home, if it is not possible in today’s real estate market, it is not going to happen. No magic trick, no super secret marketing tricks, no bonus to the buyer’s agent is going to make an overpriced home sell! If you must sell and you owe more than the market will bear, then maybe we will have to discuss doing a short sale.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">A person selling a home in Upstate SC is going to have to understand that the majority of buyers are going to need a mortgage. If your home will not appraise for the purchase price, it will not sell. Realistic list prices are the key to selling your home. And if the buyer is paying cash, they are more than likely going to want a discounted price. Either way, an overpriced home will not sell!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But if you are passionate about buying or selling real estate in Upstate South Carolina then as that very wise man said:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Let Reason Hold the Reins! </strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:26 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1341871/if-passion-drives-you-let-reason-hold-the-reins-benjamin-franklin http://activerain.com/blogsview/1340058/5-things-to-know-about-homeowner-s-insurance 5 Things to Know About Homeowner’s Insurance <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;">1. Know about exclusions to coverage.</span></strong><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"> For example, most insurance policies do not cover flood or earthquake damage as a standard item. These types of coverage must be bought separately. <br /> <br /> <strong>2. Know about dollar limitations on claims.</strong> Even if you are covered for a risk, there may be a limit on how much the insurer will pay. For example, many policies limit the amount paid for stolen jewelry unless items are insured separately. <br /> <br /> <strong>3. Know the replacement cost.</strong> If your home is destroyed you’ll receive money to replace it only to the maximum of your coverage, so be sure your insurance is sufficient. This means that if your home is insured for $150,000 and it costs $180,000 to replace it, you’ll only receive $150,000. <br /> <br /> <strong>4. Know the actual cash value.</strong> If you chose not to replace your home when it’s destroyed, you’ll receive replacement cost, less depreciation. This is called actual cash value. <br /> <br /> <strong>5. Know the liability.</strong> Generally your homeowner’s insurance covers you for accidents that happen to other people on your property, including medical care, court costs, and awards by the court. However, there is usually an upper limit to the amount of coverage provided. Be sure that it’s sufficient if you have significant assets. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:04:36 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1340058/5-things-to-know-about-homeowner-s-insurance http://activerain.com/blogsview/1340045/e-lakeshore-drive-fair-play-sc-29643 E Lakeshore Drive Fair Play SC 29643 <p>Great wooded corner lot in peaceful community only a mile from boat ramp. Nice hardwoods. Private road. Five other lots for sale, each an acre or more.Buy more than one for reduced price. Owners will consider owner financing for up to 2 years with 10% down. 8% interest based on 20-yr loan with two-year balloon payoff. Asking $17500</p> <p><img title="fair play sc land for sale" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/8/1/4/0/ar125839343204182.JPG" height="376" alt="fair play sc land for sale" width="640" /></p> <p><span>Property marketed by Mark Brian, Realtor @ Silver Star Real Estate 864-353-1253 To see more pictures and details of this property please visit <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=listingview&listingID=37" title="Fair Play SC land for sale" target="_blank">Fair Play SC Land for Sale</a><br /></span></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:46:44 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1340045/e-lakeshore-drive-fair-play-sc-29643 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1337688/-selugadu-iii-a-native-american-celebration-at-hagood-mill-in-pickens-county-sc "Selugadu III" A Native American Celebration" At Hagood Mill in Pickens County SC <p>In observance of Native American Heritage Month, the <a href="http://www.co.pickens.sc.us/culturalcommission/" title="Pickens County Cultural Commission" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pickens County Cultural Commission</a> invites you to join the friends of the Pickens County Museum for a special, and free, day of milling, memories and a Native American Celebration at the Hagood Mill Historic Site & Folklife Center. The Mill will be operating, rain or shine, on Saturday, November 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. <br /><br /> “Selugadu” (Cherokee for cornbread) celebrates our Native American influences. A number of groups will be represented, including individuals born and raised here as well as those who have made South Carolina their home.<br /><br /> Hosted by “Reedy River Intertribal,” this third annual event will begin with a “Presentation of the Colors,” honoring America’s veterans, and will continue throughout the day with a great program of drumming, dancing, singing, storytelling, demonstrations and games. Reedy River’s “Sagan” (head-man), Pat Langley, will be present to interpret Native American culture, along with Joseph Jordan, a Tuscarora Indian from Georgia, who will act as Master of Ceremonies. Jordan is an award-winning dancer and presenter. Native American dancing will be a big part of the celebration.<br /><br /> Dr. Will Goins, Chief Executive Officer of the Eastern Cherokee, Southern Iroquois and United Tribes of South Carolina will be on hand to share in stories, dance and song and will talk with visitors about the Cherokee and other Native American history, culture and tradition.<br /><br /> For those who get “caught up” in the spirit of the day, the dancing will include audience participation dances and a “candy dance” for kids. A highlight of the dancing will be 13 year old Austin “Redbird” Sweat, an Eastern Shawnee, who has won numerous awards for his performances. Native American flute music (of different styles and tribes) will be presented along with songs in Cherokee performed by the Reedy River Intertribal Singers. Native jewelry and crafts will be demonstrated and available for sale. “Sagan” Langley has won awards for his beadwork. Reedy River member, Gale McKinley will demonstrate basket making. Native-cooked roasted corn and fry bread will also be available.<br /><br /> Activities for youngsters will include face-painting with Native designs and participation in (and learning about) drumming on a “kid’s drum” the group will bring.<br /><br /> Another delight for the kids will be the presence of the Foothills Indian Horse Club with their Colonial Spanish horses. These horses are descended from the first horses brought to the New World by the Spanish and are similar to the wild horses that roam the West. The club is affiliated nationally with the American Indian Horsed Registry and the Horses of the Americas Registry. Kids will be allowed to “paint” the horses with their hand prints in the style of the Plains Indians.<br /><br /> The Crawford Collection of local ancient stone points and tools will be on display along with experimental archaeologist, Roger Lindsay’s, “river-cane” technology exhibit and demonstration of the lance and atl-atl, blowgun and bow & arrow. The mill site's regular flintknapper, Steve Compton, will also be showing how stone tools and weapons were made. The Foothills Chapter of the SC Archaeology Society will be present with a table of information and to do free artifact identification of any stone tools visitors wish to bring. The Crawfords and Lindsay will also be available to tell visitors about the mill site’s “petroglyph” rock with its seventeen human “stick-men,” carved by Native Americans more than a thousand years ago and the “South Carolina Rock Art Center” that will be built over it.<br /><br /> As a service to the Native Americans present, the National Tribal Development Association will have their Outreach Liaison, Gina Bass, on site with a table of information on Federal Grants and assistance for Native Americans and Family Farms.<br /><br /> Join in the fun from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for this FREE day of Native American celebration and demonstrations along with the regular monthly feature of “milling, music and memories.” The Hagood Mill hosts a variety of folklife and traditional arts demonstrations each month, including blacksmithing, bowl-digging, cotton-ginning, flintknapping, moonshining, quilting, spinning, woodcarving and more!<br /><br /> All this should make for a day surely not to miss. Bring your lawn chairs, enjoy a plate of barbeque, a hot dog or some Native fry bread or roasted corn and experience a day at the Mill and a great time at this wonderful celebration of American Indian culture. Show your support for the Mill and the Pickens County Museum by joining them at this monthly Third Saturday event. The Hagood Mill operates, rain or shine, the third Saturday of every month and is located just 3 miles north of Pickens or 5 ½ miles south of Cherokee Foothills Scenic Hwy 11 off SC Hwy 178 at 138 Hagood Mill Road. Hagood Mill is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 until 4:00, to tour the buildings and grounds and to visit the Mill Site Gift Shop.<br /><br /> Part of "Music in the Mountains 2009", Selugadu III: A Native American Celebration is sponsored by a private benefactor. The Pickens County Museum of Art & History is funded in part by Pickens County, members and friends of the museum and a grant from the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts.<br /><br /> For additional information please contact the Hagood Mill Historic Site & Folklife Center at (864) 898-2936 or the Pickens County Museum at (864) 898-5963. Be sure to become a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pickens-SC/Hagood-Mill-Historic-Site-Folklife-Center/123514574664" title="Hagood Mill Fan page on Facebook" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hagood Mill on Facebook</a>!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:55:55 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1337688/-selugadu-iii-a-native-american-celebration-at-hagood-mill-in-pickens-county-sc http://activerain.com/blogsview/1337658/meteor-show-gazing-learning-at-sc-botanical-garden Meteor Show Gazing & Learning At SC Botanical Garden <p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Every year thousands of shooting stars amaze stargazers around the world. You can have a special evening of wonder as learning about the Leonid meteor shower and the comet that started it all at the <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/public/scbg/" title="SC Botanical Gardens" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SC Botanical Gardens</a> in <a href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com/index.php?action=page_display&PageID=63" title="Clemson SC information" target="_blank">Clemson</a> on November 17th from 7 to 9PM. The dark skies provided by the new moon should provide excellent viewing conditions, but remember there are no guarantees. Clemson University professors and curators will guide you in viewing with and without a telescope, counting and measuring meteors, as well as helping you understand what you're seeing. Bring a notebook & pen, blankets or chairs, and dress for the weather! You can leave your flashlight at home since it will not be needed. There will be light refreshments provided. The fee for the event is $10/family (up to 5). Meet at the Kelly Meadow at the SC Botanical Garden.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For more information please call 864-656-3405 or visit their <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/public/scbg/" title="SC Botanical Garden" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a><br /></strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Mark Brian  Silver Star Real Estate</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;">Cell 864-353-1253 Office 864-225-1883</span></p> <p><big><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></big><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde;"><big><a href="mailto:markrbrian@bellsouth.net"><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;">Email</span></a></big></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial black,avant garde; font-size: medium;"><a title="view south carolina real estate" href="http://viewsouthcarolinarealestate.com" target="_blank">View South Carolina Real Estate</a></span></p> <p> </p></div> Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC) Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:24:41 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1337658/meteor-show-gazing-learning-at-sc-botanical-garden