Reporter Georgia Lash, left, with News Anchor Norma Taylor.
PHOTO BY RICHARD DE ASIA
The seller asked, if I offer no commission to buyer agents will they show my home?
BY LARRY STOLLER Contributor
In this real estate business of selling and buying homes, the two most important parties in the sale and purchase transaction are “the home sellers” and “the home buyers.” Not only are they important, but they are protected as well.
In fact, the South Carolina Real Estate Commission’s purpose is to regulate the real estate industry so as to protect the public’s interest when involved in real estate transactions.
All real estate brokers and agents must be licensed, and their duties and responsibilities as relates to their clients and/or customers are paramount.
So, when I hear a seller say, that an agent told them that no one will show their home if they don’t offer a commission to the buyer’s agent, that really irks me big time!
If a buyer wants to see a home, there will always be an agent who will show them that home. That’s because sellers and buyers are driving this real estate transaction bus, not real estate agents.
If a buyer contacted me about seeing a home, and that home seller was not paying a commission to the buyer’s
agent, I would suggest that we have a Buyer’s Agency Agreement or a Transaction Broker Agreement in place before showing them that home or any home for that matter.
These agreements state the services that the buyer will receive and agent compensation as well. Is compensation required? No, it’s not, but it could be included, regardless of whether the seller is or is not paying compensation to the buyer’s broker.
Another way to see that home would be to call the listing agent and request a showing. If you decide to buy that home, you could work with that listing agent as a client or as a customer (that might depend on the office policy of the brokerage).
I have heard of instances where the buyer contacted the owner directly. Some listing agreements allow the homeowner to refer the buyer to the listing agent and pay a reduced commission. You never know.
If you have any questions about the above information, please feel free to contact me.
I love chatting about anything that has to do with real estate.
Larry Stoller is a local Broker and Realtor with Real Estate FIVE of the Low Country. He sells homes throughout the Bluffton and Hilton Head. www.RealEstateFive.com, larry@realestatefive.com
Larry Stoller
Tune In: Sun City’s own SCTV connects the community
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
Imagine a community where every heartbeat, every story, every moment is captured and broadcast directly into your living room. Sun City Hilton Head is such a community where residents enjoy the unique privilege of their very own local television station, Sun City Television (SCTV). This 24/7 channel is not just about keeping you informed: it is about bringing the community to life right before your eyes. From engaging news stories to indepth interviews, SCTV covers it all, making sure you are always connected to what is happening in Sun City.
Georgia Lash, SCTV’s dedicated secretary, proudly asserts, “SCTV reflects the breadth of Sun City’s lifestyle!” This sentiment is vividly presented professionally through a vibrant lineup of programs including Sun City News, Sports Done Wright, In Our Neighborhoods, Extra, Meet the Author and Community Connection. Crafted to inform and engage, these shows ensure that you never miss a beat of what is happening in your community.
Viewing SCTV is quite convenient. SCTV may be watched on two local cable companies, including Spectrum (Channel 1301) or Hargray (Channel 238). Lash offers a smart tip. She encourages residents to log onto YouTube, making it clear she is referring to the regular site, not YouTube TV, to access SCTV’s programming. This platform not only allows viewers to watch programs on their schedule but also to delve into a history of past programs at their convenience, a feature particularly appreciated by those with busy schedules.
Lash shared that SCTV’s journey began in 2001, initially as a modest, audio-only news broadcast that functioned more like a radio station. It was not until 2002 that SCTV ventured into video broadcasting, covering a Sun City Board of Directors candidates’ forum, its first televised event. Since then, with the support of the community, SCTV has grown significantly, boasting a studio, budget and advanced equipment by 2003. Today, SCTV thrives in its studio and offices located at Pickney
Hall.
The real transformation, according to Lash, took place in 2018 when SCTV was officially chartered as a service organization. Under the guidance of the Sun City Communications Department, SCTV has flourished, providing specially curated programming according to chartered guidelines without requiring dues from its volunteers.
The most popular show, Sun City News, airs weekly, drawing in viewers with its timely updates. This flagship program is complemented by monthly shows that cater to various interests within the community, from local news, sports, and literary discussions to deeper dives into neighborhood happenings.
Each program has a unique focus and runs throughout the month, often drawing inspiration from topics covered in the weekly news. Lash explained if a news story interview for Sun City News extends beyond a three-minute news segment, shows like Extra provide the additional coverage needed. Similarly, Sports Done Wright, cleverly named after anchor Doug Wright, offers comprehensive sports coverage that goes beyond his brief news summaries on the weekly Sun City News,
allowing for detailed discussions about Sun City Sports.
In Our Neighborhoods spotlights residents and their events, making it a personal and engaging show that connects viewers with their community on a deeper level. Lash notes that the residents appearing on this show are shared with residents who were interviewed, whereby SCTV provides a link for participants to share their interview with friends and family, “adding a personal touch to the experience.”
To ensure a complete 24-hour broadcast schedule required for cable television, SCTV also includes late-night movies from 1 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., filling the hours with entertainment alongside its custom content. The availability of SCTV on YouTube not only broadens its reach but also enhances viewer engagement while providing SCTV staff valuable analytics on the YouTube audience and insight into viewership patterns for future programming.
For those interested in seeing the full program schedule or learning more about SCTV, the Sun City official website offers easy navigation. Simply visit www.suncityhiltonhead.org, scroll to “Clubs and Groups,” and click on “SCTV” to find links to the YouTube channel and the comprehensive program guide.
Lash said volunteers are the backbone of SCTV, and there is always a welcome call for more hands and inventive minds. From audio and camera operators to editors and reporters, there are numerous ways to contribute. Anyone interested in volunteering can reach out via email at suncityhh@gmail.com requesting more details on how to join this vibrant team.
If you are not currently viewing Sun City TV, you are missing a lot. Step into the world of SCTV, where every program tells a story, every broadcast brings the community closer, and every moment on air celebrates the unique spirit of Sun City.
WATCH SCTV: LEARN ABOUT I-95 WIDENING
A notable example of accessing past Sun City TV (SCTV) programs via YouTube includes an SCTV Community Connections Special on the widening of the I-95 project. This expansion begins at the Georgia border and extends to Exit 8 in South Carolina. SCTV Reporter Georgia Lash interviews South Carolina Department of Transportation Project Manager, Craig Winn, before his presentation to a joint session of the Low Country Happenings and North Currents groups.
Lash introduces the segment by noting that on average, 64,000 vehicles travel daily on the I-95 stretch from the Georgia border to South Carolina mile marker eighteen. Winn states that the project is slated to start “early next year to spring of next year,” with the initial phase extending one mile beyond Exit 8.
SCTV broadcasts Winn’s full presentation, allowing Sun City residents to learn about this highly anticipated project, which will include a “divergent diamond intersection” at Exit 8 to enhance safe traffic flow. By presenting Winn’s comprehensive presentation on this major infrastructure project, SCTV ensures that Sun City residents have direct access to detailed and critical information, illustrating SCTV’s role as a pivotal source of local news and updates. To view the detailed planning and expected impacts of this project, residents can watch the entire Community Connections Special on YouTube with a search to “Sun City Hilton Head TV.”
Additionally, YouTube hosts other timely prior episodes of SCTV’s Community Connections program, covering topics such as Non-Emergency Resources for Sun City Residents, and Low Country Happenings – Beaufort County Transportation Committee, Low Country Happenings – Sun City West, among others. Other prior programs are also available for viewing on YouTube.
PHOTO BY RICHARD DE ASIA
Editors Frank Commins and George Rosehart
The Sun City Hilton Head
Sales Price Dips 3% The median sales price year-to-date has experienced a slight dip. In 2023, the year-to-date median was $530,000, while our current year-to date price has decreased by 3% to $517,820. While this isn’t a drastic drop, it does suggest a modest correction in home prices as the market adjusts to evolving conditions. Declining home prices started a few months ago and co ntinue to trend downward. It will be interesting to see how the anticipated interest rate reductions will impact the market moving forward. For buyers, this market presents a unique opportunity with a wider selection of homes and better negotiating power compared to a year ago. For sellers, it's an opportune time to capitalize on their properties while prices remain near historic highs. How Can I Assist You? If you're considering selling your property in the near future, I invite you to reach out for a comprehensive Market Analysis and an in -depth market review. By understanding the current market dynamics, we can develop a strategy to ensure your home stands out and achieves the best possible valu e in this evolving landscape.
Active Homes and Villas
Top 5 affordable updates to boost your home’s value before selling
BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor
When you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s common to focus on cleaning and decluttering, but making a few key updates can significantly increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. Here are the top five cost-effective improvements to consider before putting your property on the market.
1. Fresh Paint One of the easiest and most impactful updates is applying a fresh coat of paint. Opting for neutral shades like soft grays, beiges or whites can appeal to a wide range of buyers, providing them with a blank canvas to imag-
ine their own décor. Repainting walls, trim and especially the front door can give your home a clean, updated look at a low cost. To complete the transformation, consider swapping out outdated door hardware for a more modern style.
2. Kitchen Updates The kitchen is often the most important room to buyers, and even small upgrades can make a big difference. Start with budget-friendly changes like replacing cabinet hardware, upgrading light fixtures or installing a new faucet. These simple updates can enhance the kitchen’s appeal without the expense of a full remodel.
3. Bathroom Refresh Minor updates to bathrooms can also provide a great return on investment. Replacing old faucets, updating mirrors and adding new lighting can give the space a more modern look. A deep clean, re-grouting tiles and re-caulk-
ing around the tub or shower can freshen the space and give it a well-maintained appearance. These easy and affordable improvements can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.
4. Boost Curb Appeal First impressions are crucial and enhancing your home’s curb appeal is a must. Simple landscaping tasks such as mowing the lawn, trimming bushes and adding fresh mulch can go a long way in making your home more inviting. Add potted plants near the entrance and ensure that walkways are clean and in good condition. These lowcost efforts can create a welcoming exterior that draws buyers in from the moment they arrive.
5. Improve Lighting Lighting can dramatically affect the mood of your home. Consider replacing outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options to
brighten up the space. Installing dimmer switches can offer potential buyers more control over the ambiance, and replacing old switch plates can provide a clean, polished look. Make sure all bulbs are functional and opt for daylight LED bulbs to create a bright, natural feel that enhances your home’s features.
By focusing on these five cost-effective updates, you can make your home more appealing to buyers, potentially increase its value and help it sell faster. These strategic improvements will allow your property to stand out in the competitive real estate market without a large investment.
Gary Smythe is a local real agent with William Raveis Real Estate focusing on the Hilton Head and Bluffton areas.
Gary Smythe
Sun City musicians haven’t
BY ANDREA HOERNER
Contributor
“Musicians don’t retire, they stop when there is no more music in them.” - Louis Armstrong
Just about every day, music can be heard in the Sun City community. The nine Music Interest Groups (MIGS) of the Music Guild get together weekly to practice and enjoy laughter and camaraderie in this retirement community. These folks who moved here to enjoy retirement have found a way to express their love of music.
The various MIGs have collectively performed at a range of venues outside Sun City, including assisted living and health care facilities such as The Bloom at Belfair, Canterfield, Vineyard, Sprenger and Memory Matters. They have also performed at the Lions Club, the Bluffton Library, St. Luke’s Methodist Church’s “Music on The Grounds,” and the USC Basketball season opener.
enjoy playing guitar. It’s not every day you see and hear 20-25 guitars being played simultaneously.
Singing traditional Irish songs are the Raparees. They are in much demand around St. Patrick’s Day.
The Sun City Jazz Band is comprised of musicians with experience playing jazz.
The Sun City Ukulele Band started in 2017 and has 40 to 50 members. The Mountain Strings, a dulcimer group, play country, folk, Appalachian and Bluegrass. The Sun City Chimers play music using chimes ranging in size from small hand-held chimes to “the rack,” which holds large chimes played with a soft mallet. Sun City Strummers are folks who mostly
Then, we have the residents with a love of singing. Formed in 2003, the Sun City Singers presently have 60 members and sing for Sun City events. Shari Borenstein has been president for four years. “I am very passionate about music and singing. Music is a human connection that binds us together. Our group shares our love of music monthly at facilities, brightening the resident’s day,” she said. “We involve them in our programs, getting them to join us in song. Sun City Singers is like a family. Not only do we support each other in learning new music, but in spirit, joy and friendship. Everyone is welcome!”
The Sun Tones, women singing barbershop harmony, also made their Sun City debut in 2003 and began their journey into four-part a cappella harmony. Not to be outdone, the men of Sun City Harmonizers enjoy singing in four-part harmony.
Ruben Ariola is president of the Music Guild and grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y. He attended George Gershwin Jr. High School, where celebrities would often visit to encourage the students to achieve.
“Living in the city,” Ruben said, “I was surrounded by music in plays and shows, and as a youngster I chose to play the trumpet.” He was an active member of a drum and bugle corps for many years and also taught. Ruben is a member of the Sun City Theatre, SC Softball and Sun City Veterans Association. He belongs to Bugles across America, a group that volunteers to play taps for veterans’ funerals. He and his wife Anne moved to Sun City in 2018.
If you are interested in joining, whatever your taste in music, Music Guild groups offer something for you, from Irish singers to a Jazz Band, see the current issue of Sunsations for more information.
Sun City Jazz Band enjoying a rehearsal
The pantry
BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor
Normally, our children visit about every 9-12 months. Each couple lives a thousand miles from South Carolina. Our airports are not a main hub, so flights are extremely expensive. They could fly to Europe for what they pay to visit the old folks.
I don’t know about most families, but my children have gotten into a rather annoying habit of reading labels on every can I pull out of the pantry. They’re looking for expiration dates! The last few visits they’ve extended their irritating plight also to rummaging through my refrigerator.
I would no more think of going through their pantry or refrigerator during a visit than I would go through their wallet.
Picture this! I walk into the kitchen and here’s this conniving group of offspring huddled at my pantry door comparing notes. “Wow, look at this. This one expired in 2019,” says the leader of the pack. Then ‘Number Three on the Tree’ child has her swiveling head and grubby little hands in my refrigerator picking up each suspicious item for inspection prior to tossing day old food items into the trash can.
Their behavior reminds me of their toddler years when they discovered mothers hiding place, for candy, in a special drawer. They are celebrating with the same glee and excitement while they’re tossing each expired item into the barrels for future Waste Management hauls. If they visit for Christmas and the can expired in November of that same year, it’s history!
I will have to admit their father is a shopaholic and a hoarder. If it’s on sale,
he will buy a dozen of them. At some point you’ll eat it, even if that’s years down the line. He figures as long as the ten boxes of cake mix have not been opened, they’re fresh, even after ten years!
One Thanksgiving I was making a Jello mold that called for condensed milk. I had all the other ingredients in this huge mixing bowl. My son asked his dad about the age of the condensed milk. Of course, my husband replied that he just bought it a month ago. I proceeded to open the can and waited for the liquid to pour into the mixture. My son and I stood there, in utter disbelief, when this glob of pudding-like substance plopped into the mixing bowl. We just looked at one another before he checked the expiration date on this supposedly month-old item. It was five years old. And that, my friends, was the start of raiding my pantry and fridge during their visits.
For the past few years, these trash pickers have caused me nothing but extra work. Not only do I clean the house, change the linens and grocery shop, but now I have an extra job. Go through everything in the pantry and clear out the refrigerator. If it’s in a Tupperware, it’s history to that clan of kids. Smell the milk, look for mold on the cheese, check to see if the cereal is fresh. Yes, they are a joy to entertain. In all reality, their father is the culprit. Unless the can is swollen, discolored and ready to explode, he figures, if it’s in the pantry, it’s good! Yes, the “expiration cops” are on to him, at my expense. Thank the Lord they only come once a year.
Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.
