Local Real Estate Terminology

Arb

Architectural Review Board is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the architectural guidelines of the community. The goal of an Architectural Review Board (ARB) is to achieve visually pleasing improvements by providing standards and guidelines for community areas and residences per the development’s comprehensive Master Plan.

Plantation

Not to be confused with farms or agricultural land, plantations are private gated communities offering resort-style amenities for the residents.

Poa

Property Owner’s Association (aka Home Owner’s Association or HOA), is an association that manages or regulates the residential subdivision for the benefit of the property owners. The POA is responsible for the ownership, care, and maintenance of private streets and other private facilities and usually requires an annual fee.

Regime Fee

Regime fees are condominium association costs typically charged on a monthly basis to the owners of condos that cover budgeted items. These fees factor in all the costs associated with owning the complex and split the costs (usually based on unit size) between all the owners. They may include things like water and cable but be sure to check with your Realtor® to learn more about what the regime fee covers.

Villa

In the Lowcountry, villas and condominiums are one in the same. A villa complex houses multiple individually owned units where common facilities like swimming pools or tennis courts are shared.