Trivia: Blessing of the Fleet

The answer is D: All of the above. Personally, my favorite was when it was at Alhambra Hall!

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The Cassina Group Closes Over $1 Billion in Sales Over Past Two Years

CHARLESTON, SC USA – The Cassina Group, Charleston’s #1 boutique real estate firm, has closed over $1 billion in sales over the past two years.  The company’s combined sales volume for 2021 and 2022 totals $1,070,975,059, representing a record-breaking two years for the company.  This is an especially impressive feat given that the powerhouse firm has just 43 REALTORS®. 

“We could not be more proud of our REALTORS®,” said Owen Tyler, managing broker and partner at The Cassina Group. “They are highly educated and knowledgeable about the ever-changing market, working tirelessly day in and day out to provide the finest service to our wonderful clients.  We are so grateful to all 419 clients who entrusted us in the home buying or selling process this year and look forward to continued success in 2023.”

Click here for the full article….

Old Village Trivia: Otis Pickett

The answer is B: Doctor

Dr. Pickett’s office was located next to the Pitt Street Pharmacy, and he was my first Doc when I moved to the area in the 80’s. He was such a sweet man, and I loved that he would still make House Calls!

Here is more info on him from Mt. Pleasant Magazine:

” Dr. Otis Pickett and his wife, Ruth, had been childhood sweethearts since 1936 when they got married in 1944. The doctor walked from his home on Sullivan’s Island, over the Pitt Street Bridge, to his office located next door to the Pitt Street Pharmacy. Ruth worked alongside her husband at the doctor’s office for 40 years. In the book “Mount Pleasant: The Friendly Town,” Mary-Julia C. Royall wrote: “Here Dr. Otis Pickett Jr. treated old and young, black and white, rich and poor.” With historical significance that spans more than 200 years, hopefully its role as a public park will ensure that this spot can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Old Village Trivia: Pitt Street Pharmacy

The answer is D. Chewing Gum! Yes, if you grew up in the neighborhood, it is likely that your grandmother’s gum is immortalized underneath the counter. All colors are represented, and I find it gross and funny! The staff re-coats the counter annually for preservation and to keep it sanitary. Fun Fact! Be sure to look next time you go!

2023 Local Real Estate Market Predictions 

The local real estate market finished strong in 2022, with Lower Mt. Pleasant seeing a 20% increase in home prices over this time last year (click for more details).  Market indicators suggest 2023 will be no different.  Here are some take-aways from experts as well as my predictions for the upcoming year:  

  • Inventory will remain relatively low
  • Prices will remain steady, however, sellers will find that an aspirational sales price may need to be adjusted down to fit the market
  • Interest rates will continue to vary
  • Out of town buyers will still move to Charleston for its amenities, weather, food, lifestyle and low taxes
  • Multiple offers are on the decline
  • Days on market will likely increase and buyers will have an opportunity to take a breath

The Real Estate market is local, down to your neighborhood, down to your street. I specialize in this market and I’m happy to provide expert knowledge based on data and years of experience. Please contact me at Jackie@TheCassinaGroup.com if I can help!

No-Brainer Tips To Increase Your Home Value

It’s always important to maintain your home, so here are my top picks of tasks that are proven to increase your home value over time.  

​*Upgrade to energy-efficient ​appliances, smart technology and high impact windows

Energy efficiency is​ an important factor of any home, so when it’s time to upgrade appliances, technology and windows, make efficiency a priority.  Insulating the attic and encapsulating the crawl space is also a worthy choice. Consider implementing smart door locks, thermostats, lights, etc. These investments will pay off over time and will have a positive impact when and if you decide to sell.   ​ 

​*Create curb appeal and additional living space with low-maintenance landscaping

First impressions are key to buyers, and even if you are not selling, you will love the look of lush, low-maintenance landscaping that stays green year-round.  Think about your yard as additional living space by adding covered seating areas, a paved courtyard, fire pit and more. Outdoor showers are also a plus in the Lowcountry!

*Update finishes​ and fixtures​

​Updating light fixtures, faucets, ​d​rawer pull​ and door knobs s​ can give your home ​a new, trendy feel.  These small updates don’t cost a lot and will freshen up your space in an instant!  

*Paint Exterior and Interior

Painting the exterior of your home is just good maintenance and should be done regularly. When it comes to your interior, there is no investment with a bigger “wow” factor than a fresh coat of paint. If considering selling, neutral colors are always advised.

When possible, I do advise hiring professionals. If I can help provide a list of trusted resources, let me know by reaching out at Jackie@TheCassinaGroup.com

Market Update- Lower Mt. Pleasant

The 2022 Year to Date stats for Lower Mt. Pleasant show a decrease in the amount of homes sold, but an increase in pricing over this time last year. Closed sales were down about 14% but prices were up about 21% since this time last year. Homes went under contract quickly in 2022, with an average of 15 days on the market vs. 23 days in 2021.

The Real Estate market is local, down to your neighborhood, down to your street. I specialize in this market and I’m happy to provide expert knowledge based on data and years of experience. Please contact me at Jackie@TheCassinaGroup.com if I can help!

*information above is provided by CTAR and reflects single family homes in Charleston County.