Flooding in the Louisiana flood

Help Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices real estate affiliates impacted by the devastating floods in Louisiana.

Over 80% of the listings were flooded and pulled off the market leaving many companies wondering how they are going to pay employees and keep the lights on, once the power is back on!

The campaign is trending on the GoFundMe website and has been shared a lot!  Your donations no matter how small, will share a message of encouragement and hope for those that have lost so much! 

Check out the link below... any amount will help! And please share!   https://www.gofundme.com/2ktt3ryk

Home Buyer Advice

Home Buyer Advice,

The Goal of Top Charleston Agent Michael Smith is to provide you the best service. Here is a list f the ways I can help you should you decide to use a Realtor to buy or sell your home or property:

1. If you are buying a home it does not cost you anything to have a Realtor represent you. If a Realtor represents you they are called the Buyers Agent. If a Buyers Agent brings a client to the Sellers Agent he gets a portion of the commission being offer by the homeowner.

2. The Agent representing the Seller is called the Sellers Agent. If you do not have a Realtor represent you then you will be dealing with the Seller Agent hired by the homeowner. A Sellers Agent fiduciary responsibility to the Seller of the home.  

3. A Buyers Agent represents you and your interests... They work for you to help you determine what is the best home for you. They can guide you on current market trends in a neighborhood and negotiate a price for you. they will guide you through the whole process.

Representation is critical in this market to understand how to make a deal and close it quickly. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions before hiring a Buyers Agent... be sure they understand the market and homes in the area. Don't sign anything until you are comfortable with them.

Top Charleston Agent Michael Smith is available as a Buyers Agent. He has extensive experience as a builder and Home inspector. Remember his service is always free! 

Warm Regards,
Michael Smith 

Avoid Real Estate Scams on Craigslist

Craigslist is full of Scams! Use a local Realtor you can trust! 

A few years ago when we made the move to Charleston, South Carolina, I started shopping for homes on Craigslist.  Much to my surprise! How many too good to be true deals there were out there! One by one they all proved to be scams.  After hooking up with a Realtor we were able to find our perfect spot for a fair price.  Has this ever happen to you?

There are 3 tools I highly recommend for home shopping in Charleston and the surrounding counties.

1. Download my FREE mobile APP now! Updated with homes for sale every 15 minutes... Drive up to a home, pull up the app, click on "Nearby for sale" and see all prices, pictures, square footage, school district, and just about anything your would want to know about that home!

To get this FREE app just text: BHHSmsmith to the number 87778. Start shopping for homes now!

Create a profile and save your favorites to review later. It's the quickest and easiest way to shop for homes! It's also private and secure... no one will call unless you click the "Contact" button and send an email or call... it's that simple! 

If you are working from a Laptop or computer, try this one out!  Use my FREE Home and Land Website Search. 
smith.myhomecharleston.com
You can create a FREE profile and save your searches here! 


And if you want to know what the internet says your home is worth?
Check out the FREE home value report at: 
CharlestonAgent.smarthomeprice.com

Just plug in your address and find out what the internet says your home is worth! If you don't like what the internet valuation is call me! I may be able to fix it! It is hard to sell your home for what it's worth if the internet is wrong!

Remember my advice is always free! Call, Text or email anytime!  

Michael Robert Smith 
843-580-6251
remichaelsmith@gmail.com
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices
Carolina Sun Real Estate

You can also read more about me on my web site
TopCharlestonAgent.com

Differences between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island

There are three main areas for beachfront south of Charleston. Folly Beach, Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island.

Two of the very best destinations in America can be found just 25 minutes south of Charleston, South Carolina.  Kiawah Island and Seabrook Islands they are both gated communities, offering the best resort amenities and the best beach resort communities on the east coast.

The city Charleston, South Carolina has been voted the best city in America four years on a row now by the magazine Conde Naste Traveler.  Beyond the amazing historical downtown area, Charleston is surrounded by several islands.  Isle of Palms and Daniel Islands to the North... Folly Beach, Kiawah and Seabrook Islands to the south.

I receive several questions a week about the best places around Charleston to have a second home, retire in style, or just get away from it all.  Each island has it’s own style and flair, but it’s hard to beat two gated islands to the south of Charleston… Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island!  Please feel free to contact me directly, as I will be happy to elaborate and provide you with more information on the two islands. 843-580-6251 or email remichaelsmith@gmail.com… or feel free to read on!

First of all Kiawah Island is a little over 10,000 acres with over 10 miles of beautiful sandy beaches.  The five legendary golf courses were designed by five world renown architects: Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Gary Player, and Clyde Johnston. The five clubhouses are spectacular and cater to all levels and age of golfer.  If you love tennis, “Tennis resorts online” ranks Kiawah Tennis the #2 ranked facility in the country, the two state of the art complexes will not disappoint.  The Five Star Sanctuary Hotel & Spa is a sight to behold, they have entertained presidents from around the world and many famous actors each year.  The 30 miles of bicycle paths are wonderful to explore or you can take a beach cruise bike and go for a ride on the sand at low tide.

Membership dues on Kiawah Island vary depending on level. Family pool memberships for under $900 per year to unlimited access to pool, clubhouses, tennis and golf for $8,900.

The smaller Seabrook Island is 2,200 acres and 3.5 miles of sandy beaches. It has two golf courses, the Ocean Winds Golf Course, designed by Willard Byrd, and the Crooked Oaks Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.  The elegantly designed and decorated clubhouses are perfect for the 19th hole. The new tennis center boasts of 15 clay courts and daily activities for all ages.  The state of the art equestrian center is second to none, providing all levels of service. It is one of the few equestrian centers on the east coast that has beach access for riding.

Dues on Seabrook are mandatory for all homeowners starting at $3,800 per year up to $9,400 for full access. Lower fees are available for those that just own property.

Both islands share the security of a 24 Hour manned gated entrance.

Just outside the gated communities there is something for everyone. Freshfield Village for all your shopping needs and the Bohicket Marina. There are many restaurants to choose from, elegant dining at the clubhouse to casual at Bohicket Marina or Freshfields Village.  Freshfields Village has sort of a small town square feeling, reminiscent of something Disney would create.  Don’t miss the Farmer’s Market or movie night under the stars in town square.

There is plenty of opportunities for watersports. Rent or charter a boat, kayak or canoe the rivers. You will see exotic birds, many dolphins, turtles and various wildlife.

Camp Kiawah or Camp Seabrook are amazing camps for children available on both Islands. Check out my blog, things for kids and families to do on Seabrook Island or Kiawah Island.  

The climate is hard to beat! Temperatures compared to inland are wonderful on both islands, you will find it 10 degrees cooler during the summer months and 10 degrees warmer during the winter.

It’s very difficult to feel bored on Seabrook Island or Kiawah Island resorts. The quarterly guide is filled with hundreds of social activities and clubs for all ages.

The main difference is the feel of each island..

Kiawah Island is more well known and draws guests from all over the world, it is a high class resort it has more of everything... more bike paths, longer beaches, and more rentals. This high class resort is extremely desirable and maintains property and home values. Beach front lots sell for well over $4 million, and the shore is lined with homes valued at 5 -20 million. Many properties are still attainable, throughout the resort you can find wonderful lagoon or golf course views for under a million and condos in the $400’s. Celebrities you may run into while cruising around include Dan Marino, George Clooney, Reese Witherspoon, Bruce Willis and more. Golf icons Tiger Woods and various others work out here as well.  Owning a second home on Kiawah Island reflects prestige and affluence.  Kiawah Island has been in the Top 5 Best Place For a Second Homes in the United States by Barron's for several years now.  Kiawah Island has won many awards such as being in the top five U.S. Tennis Resorts, the Top 10 of America’s Best Beach Towns and of course the Best Golf Community in the U.S.A.

Seabrook Island, just to the south, tend to feel a little more laid back, quaint, more exclusive and intimate.  Here you tend to see more hard working millionaires, not as much flair but very high quality homes, built with pride, an elligence runs throughout the community.  There are rentals on Seabrook but a majority of the inhabitants live there year round. You will pay a little less for homes and property on Seabrook and it may be the best hidden secret on the east coast!

Many people that own quality lots and homes in Kiawah and Seabrook may not want their home posted online.  Many owners to not want the whole world to know their business, so you will not see them on Zillow, or Realtor web sites. Most prefer to work exclusively with a certain Realtor they trust.  Many use Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate, founded by Warren Buffet, a name they trust. If you are interested in property or homes in Seabrook Island or Kiawah Island feel free to call me anytime to see what might be available.  843-580-6251

Author of this blog: Michael Smith is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices serving Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. For more information on buying real estate in Kiawah or Seabrook Islands contact him at 843-580-6251. For more information go to: TopCharlestonAgent.com  

Things for Kids & Families to do on Seabrook Island

1. Seabrook Island Kids Camps

“Camp Seabrook” is located at the Seabrook Island property Owners Lake House. The Seabrook Island Club offers daily and weekly camp sessions every summer. Island exploring, crab fishing, pony rides, nature hikes and educational workshops are just a few of the outdoor adventures the trained guides enjoy with the kids.  They also experience pool fun, practice their acting skills with theater plays, various arts and crafts, and culinary classes. They hold athletic workshops, various sports activities, kickball, and much more.  The Seabrook Island camp counselors create and craft an amazing “Seabrook Island” summer experience for young visitors. They will remember this awesome experience and cherish these memories for years to come!

Children ages 4-12 may join “Camp Seabrook” it runs from June 6 – September 2, Monday-Friday – 9:00am – 12:30pm.  The daily rate for Seabrook Island Camper is $45 or you can purchase a whole week for $195.  Space is limited so reserve your spot in advance. Call 843.725.3470 for Seabrook Island Kids camp reservations.

If you are looking for a longer overnight camp for kids of all ages check out St Christopher Camp.  Camps run all summer long, Fees and dates vary, check out the web site for more details or call 843-768-1337.

2. Pirate Adventure at the Bohicket Marina

One thing your children will talk about for years is the Piratates of Charleston Adventure at Bohicket Marina.The pirate ship sails the North Edisto river on a 45 foot wooden pirate ship named “The Black Ghost”  The Captains are licensed and insured and the crew loves kids, they get individual attention making their pirate adventure one of a lifetime. before setting sail they are made official crew members. Non stop fun with songs to sing, Maps and treasure chests, and shooting water cannons at the enemy Sneaky Pete. Call (843) 970-2771 to book your adventure!

2. Movie Nights

Thursday night is usually Kid’s Buffet & Movie Night!  Ages: 4 - 12, 5pm - 7:30pm. At the Oak Hall in Seabrook Island lake House. Cost is usually $14.95.  Space may be limited call for reservations 843.725.3470.  Activities include: dinner, movie, coloring, and puzzles.

Outside the gates at Freshfields Village, 149 Village Green Lane, join in on movie night every Wednesday. Just bring your chairs and blankets and sit under the stars for a free movie. usually starts around 8:30pm or at dark.   They have many other events throughout the week as well, here is a link to the calendar to keep an eye on the activities!

3.  Seabrook Island Arcade

Kids and adults can take a break from the summer hot sun at the Seabrook Island Beach Club Arcade. Cool off for a while playing pool, air hockey, ping pong, foosball, pinball, and various video games. The Seabrook Island Beach Club Arcade is usually open from

10:00 am - 9:00 pm during the summer and closed at 5pm during the rest of the year.

4. Seabrook Island swimming pools

The Seabrook Island Beach Club has 2 amazing oceanfront pools.  They offer stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.  Each pool is surrounded by beautifully landscaped sun bathing decks. Pool towels are complimentary during the summer months.  Pool hours are usually 8am to 8pm, the pool closes early in the winter months.

The Lake House Fitness & Wellness Center is a 26,000 square foot aquatic facility offering a variety of exercise classes and swimming. There is an 80+ degree 5-lane, 25-meter indoor fitness pool. The outdoor activity pool provides a child’s water play area, with deck space to sunbathe while the kids play.  There is a work out center with treadmills, rowing machines,  recumbent bikes, free weights, and state of the art resistance equipment. Everything you need to stay fit and healthy!  Personal trainers are on site to provide advice and assistance.

You may sign up for any of the fitness classes, such as pilates, aerobics or low impact aqua-fitness. typical hours are 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday, closing at 5pm on Sundays.

Other fun family Activities at the Seabrook Island Pool:

Monday nights is typically S’mores Night all ages are welcome, starts at 7:30pm down at the Seabrook Island Beach Club Pool. Cost is $6 per person

5. Horseback riding on Seabrook Island

One of the few places on the entire Atlantic coast line where you can ride on the beach.

Seabrook Island Equestrian Center is a full service equestrian center. They cater to all levels of riders, offering lessons, pony rides, or 3 miles of guided trails. The experienced staff service a modern facility offering boarding (short or long term) for residents and non-residents of Seabrook Island, they offer service year round.

6. Bicycle riding on Seabrook Island.

Seabrook is a great place to ride bikes. Traffic is limited to 25 mph within the gates of Seabrook Island. Residents tend to be more cautious making it a great place for going on rides with young bikers. You may rent bicycles at many various places on Seabrook Island.

Surfscooter rents bikes, kids bikes, and any baby equipment you need for your stay and delivers! Cribs, high chairs, strollers, joggers, kids bikes, etc...   843-768-9585

7. Seabrook Island Rentals Boats, Water sports

Rent a boat for the day, or a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak for the week. Lots of exploring can be done on your own. Bohicket Marina located at the entrance to Seabrook is a great place to rent water toys for your Seabrook Island stay. Lazy Loggerhead Rentals (843) 277-6321  or Carolina Bike & Beach (843) 747-2453 will deliver beach chairs, umbrellas and beach carts for your stay.  Water Dog Paddle Co. 843-593-7877 is a great place to get paddle boards.

8. Adult Social Activities and clubs on Seabrook Islands:

Seems like there is something going on every night for someone! There are many different social clubs or groups you may join as a resident or participate as a visitor.

Art Guild, Bridge, Coin Club, Exchange Club, Exploring Books, Fun Book Club, SI Book Club, Men’s Book Club, Book Binders, Books and More, CERT, COVAR, Blood Drive, Social Groups, Garden Club, Mahjongg at the Club, Garden Plots, Group Fitness Classes, Jane Austen Society, Ladies Bible Study,  Photography Club, Seabrook Smashers, Seabrook Stitchers, Seabrook Island Dog Owners Group (SIDOGS), Social Bridge, Social/Duplicate Bridge, Striders, Turtle Patrol, UNO Night, Wendy’s Bridge. Just to name a few!

Keep an eye on the Seabrook Island events calendar!

9. Various Restaurants & Stores outside Seabrook Resort:

Most every restaurant is casual and kid-friendly.  Check out Newton Farms Grocery has a numerous "take and bake" menu items. Bohicket--Fischers, Danny Boy's Pizza and Subs, Rosebank Cafe. Freshfields Village has LaTela Pizzeria, KIng Street Grille, Vincent's Drug Store and Soda Fountain. Java Java Coffee, and Ladles.

10. Fishing

Lots of places to fish on Seabrook!

Shark fish from the shoreline with Sharkbite Fishing. Or enter the  Billfish tournament at Bohicket Marina. You can also rent fishing poles at the Marina and have your own adventure!

11. Other James Island Activities:

There are other things to do back toward James Island. If you are looking for waterslides try Splash Zone at the James Island Park, or the amazing Wild Blue Ropes Course, and of course you won’t regret a visit to the Folly Beach Pier.

12. Seabrook Tennis Club

Adult and Junior Lessons, camps and tournaments are available year round at Seabrook Tennis Club.

Tennis director Mike Kiser was a former University of South Carolina player, one the top 5 players in S Carolina.  He holds stroke clinics, works with children teens and adults, there is something for everyone designed to accommodate both casual and avid tennis players alike.  Free use of demo racquets and ball hoppers and computerized ball machines. Call the Proshop for details: 843-768-7543

Here is a list of some the Junior programs

Ages 6-7 is Future Stars. Focus on motor skills, hand eye coordination, and lots of fun games.

Ages 8-10 is Rising Stars. Uses 70% compression balls covers all aspects of the game

Ages 10-13 is All Stars. Full court dimensions are used, regular balls

Every Friday is Davis Cup Madness.  Exciting games, fun team competitions, tennis trivia, and prizes are included in this special event for the kids.

For adults there are various Doubles Team instruction, Cardio workouts, Ladies and Mens instruction both group and individual instruction.  There is something planned for each day.

Tennis Lunch Power Hour, Seabrook Tennis Training Series, Stroke Analysis Clinic

COMPETITIVE, CALTA and USTA Interclub Play, Club Challenge Ladder, Alan Fleming Tournament

13. Golf Courses

This is a golf resort!  There are 2 golf courses on Seabrook Island and 5 on neighboring Kiawah Island.

Ocean Winds Golf Course, designed by Willard Byrd, is a 6,765-yard, par 72 course that takes you to the Atlantic Ocean where the swirling breezes provide a challenging test of ability.

Crooked Oaks Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., is a 6,780-yard, par 72 course that winds through marsh, maritime forests and moss-hung, century old live oaks.

Adult and Junior clinics are offered throughout the week. For more information CONTACT THE GOLF PRO SHOP  1-843-768-2529

Author of this blog: Michael Smith is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices serving Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. For more information on buying real estate in Kiawah or Seabrook Islands contact him at 843-580-6251. For more information go to: TopCharlestonAgent.com