Home values are expected to fall 3.6% by next June

According to Fiserv, a financial analytics company, home values are expected to fall 3.6% by next June (CNN Money).

However, interest rates are going to hold steady for the next year, so this should help buyers in continuing to be able to afford to buy homes. Fortunately, in this area, we have not suffered as much as in many other parts of the country. There is information out there that leads us to believe there will be more foreclosures in 2012 compared to last year. On another note, it has been reported that the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have over-counted previously-owned home sales for the last five years. This is thought to be due to home sales being double-counted, for example, a single sale being listed on more than one list. Some new home sales were also mistakenly included. Consequently, previously-owned home sales since January 2007 were much lower than thought. The data will be revised down next week. The NAR has since developed a new model that will allow them to discover discrepancies a lot sooner in the future.  (CNBC.com)

Pickens

Founded in 1868 and named for the Revolutionary War hero General Andrew Pickens, this family oriented village on the northwest corner of the Upstate of South Carolina is a diverse rich culture that welcomes exploration. With a HUGE number of Scots-Irish immigrants settling in the Upstate, alongside the Cherokee Indians, and focusing on the fertile land of Pickens county, don’t be surprised to see more redheads than you can count! Pickens history is still seen in the culture and landscape of architecture today. The local government buildings and museums are proud of their “country” heritage and feature local artisans particularly proficient in folk art, wood carvings, pottery and early American treasures. With the abundance of gorgeous land to the mountainous regions to the northern edge, Pickens offers a vast array of home opportunities from luxury lake and mountain properties to extremely affordable farm and business land. This is why so many businesses have recently chosen Pickens County to house the growing infrastructure of commerce in this small community. 2012 will prove to be a banner year for growth in Pickens County. Not to be forgotten that on the southern edge of Pickens is the Upstate of South Carolina’s pride and joy! Clemson University and all it offers from academics to athletics reminds folks that the red/orange clay is representative of the Tiger Orange. No one screams Tigers more than Pickens County. A gorgeous landscape with more to offer than you can say! Truly, it’s an incredible place to call home. But don’t forget! When you visit or choose to live in Pickens- the locals pronounce it (Pee-kins). Just sayin! Holly Lynch

Euphoria Greenville

a mission. a vision. a dedication to excellence. Founded in 2006 by platinum-selling singer and songwriter Edwin McCain and restaurateur Carl Sobocinski, euphoria educates, entices, enlightens, and entertains. This highly anticipated weekend-long event includes exclusive tasting events, cooking demonstrations and wine seminars, as well as multi-course dinners and live musical performances. Dedicated to excellence, euphoria features domestic and international wines, celebrity chefs, master sommeliers, and national recording artists. Every September this long weekend event shines a spotlight on Greenville, South Carolina¹s thriving Culinary and Arts Communities. Greenville, situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stands out with its award-winning downtown, vast entertainment options and diverse population. Supporting the community, proceeds from euphoria fund Local Boys do Good, the 501 (c)(3) created to benefit local non-profit organizations. euphoria, a weekend destination event, impressed all with its passion for quality and value. http://www.euphoriagreenville.com/

LOTS happening this weekend in the Upstate

This week we are getting some much need rain but the weather reports say this weekend should be great! So if you looking for something to do in the Upstate this weekend, here are a few local events planned. 9/24 Arts & Craft Fair Table Rock State Park 864-878-9269 9/24 Harvest Day Festival Inman 864-472-3654 9/24 Mountian Creek Trail Hike Paris Mountian State Park, Greenville 864-244-5565 9/24 Town Festival Jonesville 864-426-6317 You never know who your going to meet or what local goodies you can pick up! SO GET OUT and explore. If you get out there and would like to post some pictures or your story, please let us know. We would love to share your adventure!

AUGUST BREAKS SALES RECORDS FOR OUR TEAM AND KELLER WILLIAMS GREENVILLE CENTRAL!

Last month we had a record breaking month in closed transactions for our

team with 24 units closed! That is unheard of in this market! September

seems to be off to a good start but I don't see us breaking this record

again for sometime. Below are the Greenville statistics posted by GGAR.

Please let us know how and when we can help you and thank you to all our

friends for referring your friends and family, its the greatest compliment

we can receive.. We are only a success because of you!

Connie Rice & Partners

Staff Report

Published Sept. 13, 2011

Home sales jumped 42% in August, compared to the same month in 2010,

according to the most recent data from the Greater Greenville Association of

Realtors. In August, 675 homes were sold, up 42% from August 2010. Average

price was $175,340, and the median price was $141,976.

This was the second consecutive monthly increase when compared to last

year’s data. In July, 614 homes sold, up 25.6% from July 2010.

For the year, however, sales remain unable to keep pace with 2010 levels,

which were inflated by tax credits during the first half of the year.

Through the first eight months of the year, sales are down 9.1% compared to

the same period in 2010 at 3,704. Average price

is $172,482, down 0.4%, and median price is $141,150, down 1.6%.

On average, homes are remaining on the market 105 days, compared with 102

days a year ago.

Activity, meanwhile, is down 16% as of Sept. 10, with 6,343 single-family

homes, condos and townhouses listed for sale compared to 7,554 for sale in

Sept. 10, 2010.

City of Greenville Offers New Fall Recreational Programming

The City of Greenville Parks and Recreation Department announced its new fall recreation programming, which features a revamped lineup of leisure activities and sports for both youth and adult residents and visitors to enjoy. The programs are part of a new City initiative to offer a higher level of programming, including wellness, education and recreation to all five of its community centers and several athletic fields and parks.

Download Printable Version Here...

CNN Money Says Simpsonville SC in #25 in WHERE HOMES ARE AFFORDABLE!

"Residents who live in these 25 growing towns see their incomes go the furthest."

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2011/moneymag/1108/gallery.best_places_affordable_homes.moneymag/25.html

Came across this article published by CNN Money showcasing our Simpsonville! We continue to read more and more articles about our little diamond in news across the country. This is exciting news for all of us and I hope it continues. Please read and pass on the good news to your friends and family if they are not already here!

And of course…. If they need the assistance of an experienced local agent, give us a call! We would love to help!

Josephine Olson

864-400-4139

Connie Rice & Partners

Keller Williams Realty

Source: http://money.cnn.com/

Upscale steakhouse to open on Travelers Rest's Main Street

Looking for hand-rubbed garlic on your Ribeye? Maybe a flamed glaze of apricot brandy and rosemary? How about fresh pasta with a signature Pesto sauce? Look no more, because the soon-to-open Chef Giovanni's 24 Main on Main Street in Travelers Rest promises to please the most discriminating of palates.

Bringing the 31-years of culinary experience of Chef Giovanni to downtown T.R., the restaurant features the Chef's selection of hand-cut, Angus beef – Ribeye, N.Y. Strip, Fillet Mignon, Sirloin, and Porterhouse. In addition, 24 Main will offer an array of fresh fish and fresh pastas dishes, complete with signature Alfredo, Pesto, Marsala, and Romera sauces.

Set in a décor with a Mediterranean and Tuscany flair, 24 Main blends brick (recycled from a cotton mill in Woodruff), slate, stucco, and wrought iron in a perfect Old World combination. All food is prepared and cooked by the Chef in an open-fire grill that is visible to patrons.

Giovanni, who graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and has cooked table-side for celebrities like George Burns, Joan Rivers, and Frank Sinatra, maintains a straightforward mantra.

“The formula is simple,” said Giovanni. “24 Main will give customers a great choice of food at a reasonable price, without the drive, heavy traffic, and long waits. It's the ultimate casual, fine dining experience.”

The “reasonable price” is similar to that of Applebee's, according to Giovanni.

With a full-service lounge, guests can order their favorite glass of wine or pint of import draft beer while they enjoy a specialty appetizer.

Open for lunch, the afternoon menu features specialty salads with homemade dressings, Panini grilled wraps, a selection of sandwiches, burgers, and Philly Cheese steak subs (which the Chef is quick to point out are prepared just as they are in Philly - with shaved Ribeye meat).

The menu will also include grilled and stir-fried Vegan dishes as well as Greek and Italian desserts.

Chef Giovanni plans nightly drink specials, wine and cheese tastings, Monday night football wing specials, and award-winning Prime Rib on Saturday evenings. Catering and a Chef's private V.I.P. table will also be available.

Future plans include an outdoor seating area, a wine storage facility, a Spanish Cedar-lined humidor room, and hands-on cooking classes.

Currently in the remodeling and inspection process, Chef Giovanni's 24 Main plans to be open in mid- August.

9 Canvasback Trail

9 Canvasback Trail

Priced at $194,900

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	2 1/2
Home Size:	2,500.	Garage:	2
Lot Size:		Community:	Partridge Ridge
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1221868
Property Description
Remarkable home only minutes from Furman U. From the outside to the inside there is much natural beauty in this home. The circular drive in front invites you in and leads to lots of extra parking for this home. Teenagers? Not to worry, plenty of room to put em! The side entry garage helps this home sit just perfect on the lot. The back features a screen porch, multi-tiered decking and patios looking out into complete serenity and tranquility. The creek flows quietly through the back of the lot. You will spend many a fun night entertaining and just enjoying the back yard! Inside there is lots of room to roam, featuring 3 bedrooms, bonus room, large kitchen, formal dining room, great room with gas log fireplace, lots of windows looking out to the natural wonder in the back yard, and a sitting room off the master bedroom. Finally, there is a basement, partially finished tho none of the square footage is counted here as its just heated/cooled with a window unit and small heat furnace. There are several rooms in the basement, including a large workshop and a room designed to be a darkroom. The basement does walk out into the patio as well. Tons of opportunity in the basement, its framed/drywalled, has a bathroom, sink,power....dont let this one slip past you.

4 Tallin Court

4 Tallin Court

Priced at $207,900

Bedrooms:	4	Bathrooms:	2 1/2
Home Size:	2,500.	Garage:	2
Lot Size:		Community:	Summerfield
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1224371
Property Description
Traditional on the outside – Spacious On the inside! This home is family friendly located on a cul-de-sac in popular Summerfield subdivision with Excellent Mauldin Schools! A dream with just the right décor and updates. Plantation shutters, faux wood blinds, granite countertops, black appliances, custom ceramic tile and over 30 – 42" maple cabinets make this an incredible kitchen. 4x4 center island is a great place to gather. The open floor plan has the formal dining room and living room framing the huge foyer. A bonus room on the 1st floor can be used as an office, bonus or play room - it does not have a closet to be a bedroom. On the backside a wonderful family room with a 20 ft ceiling, lots of windows and excess to the fenced back yard. Go upstairs and you will find the laundry room and 4 bedrooms. The master has enough room to have a library, sitting room or exercise room. The walk-in closet is huge and the bathroom has even more closet space. The 3 bedrooms are spacious and organized on separate parts of the house. What a package. Don’t wait Call today!

Building a Backyard Fence

Before building a fence near or on the boundary separating your property from your neighbor's, you need to know exactly where the boundary lines are. Here are a few options, if you're uncertain.

• The deed to your house should contain a description of the boundary lines.
• Check with the fencing company to see if they can locate the metal pins in the ground.
• Review the survey and see if you can contact the company that surveyed your home to come out and stake your property. This is usually less expensive that a new survey.
• Contact a surveyor and have your property surveyed and staked.

Be sure to also check with your local planning department to see what or if there is a requirement for setback.

Once you know where to build your fence, you have to know what type of fence to build. Be sure you check with your HOA to see if there is a restriction on they type of fencing you are allowed. This has been a costly mistake for many homeowners in the past.

In many areas, fences that are six feet or less in height can be constructed without a building permit. Taller fences might require both a permit and the approval of the local planning department.

A final consideration is what type of building material to use. Wood is by far the most common choice but, vinyl is gaining popularity. Vinyl is more expensive in terms of upfront costs. However, because of vinyl's superior durability and minimal maintenance costs, your investment may be cheaper in the long run.

Some good online resources for building fences include Buildeazy.com and DoItYourself.com. For a selection of photos of different types of fencing, go to Elyria Fence Inc. To ensure there are no electric, gas or water lines below ground where you to plan to dig the fence post holes, visit Call-Before-You-Dig.

HAPPY FENCING!

At the Chef's Table Culinary Tour

7/16/2011 - 7/16/2011
Days & Times: Tuesday from 6:00-9:00 pm Saturdays from 1:30-4:30 pm
Location:
Address: , ,
Phone: 864 567.3940
Admission: $39 plus tax and tip
URL: www.greenvillehistorytours.com

A three hour culinary tour that allows you to meet some of the city's top chefs who serve you samples of their signature dishes. Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options) are also provided. Also learn about Greenville's history throughout the tour. During the summer, Tuesday night tours feature 4 restaurants and a wine cellar visit/tasting.

8 Lisa Drive

8 Lisa Drive

Priced at $139,500

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	2
Home Size:	1,790 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:		Community:	Wade Hampton
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1221527
Property Description
So many improvements, great location. Centrally located near Bob Jones University, Wade Hampton Blvd shopping, downtown Greenville. Seller has recently had the hardwood floors beautifully refinished, freshly painted throughout, newer roof (2011) and HVAC system (2007). 30yr Architectural shinglesadded to roof in 2011 as well. New vinyl thermopane windows added in 2007. This home is in great condition and ready to be moved into! Brand new white sink and new disposal installed in kitchen in June 2011. 3rd Party home warranty offered thru First American Warranty.

Welcome to Carshalton by the Bay on Lake Lyman, a luxury lake community featuring spacious lots and European chalet-style homes! Lakefront, basement and cul-de-sac lots are available. Bring your own builder and plan for approval, or enlist the services of Carshalton’s founders, Darryl Korpi and Matthew Hill of Skydale Enterprises, who together have over 60 years of experience building quality homes. Min sq footage required. Great location just north of Greer and close to GSP Airport, BMW,

Greenville & Allen Bennett hospital. Beautiful recreation area with great amenities, including a dock, a large, covered picnic shelter with fireplace & restrooms, a volleyball court and playground and BBQ grills. You can also enjoy boating, swimming and water skiing!

ATTENTION BUILDERS OR INVESTORS! Lot Packages are also available at a discounted price!

Call 1-800-784-4169 for additional details and check out the community website listed below to see pictures, community covenants, lake policies, new home plans and so much more! See community website at www.CarshaltonOnLakeLyman.com today!

***ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO BANK APPROVAL. PRICES MAY INCREASE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CALL AN AGENT FOR CURRENT PRICING AND AVAILABILITY.

Corn Husk Doll and Papermaking Demos 7/2/2011 - 7/3/2011

Days & Times: Saturday-Sunday, July 2-3; 11am-3pm
Location: Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
Address: 431 Main Street , Chimney Rock, NC 28720
Phone: 828 625-9611
Admission:
URL: http://www.chimneyrockpark.com

Appalachian Mountains native and lifelong artist Nora Mosrie finds inspiration in the natural world. Watch as Nora crafts beautiful dolls and paper from corn husks and other natural materials.

GREENVILLE SC REAL ESTATE SALES

Its' a difficult market to explain to clients. At points they hear that the market is rebounding (and in some cases they're correct) and in others that the decline continues in home prices. Prices in Greenville have declined but not nearly the extent of many of our neighbors. Did you know that? Well, to understand the best way to sell or purchase a home, consumers MUST have an agent that not only knows the LOCAL market, as Real Estate is localized, but also understands the national and global economies to better forecast the current trends and know what is coming down the pike. Whether it's working with Buyers, Sellers, Investors or Lease/Purchases, the Connie Rice and Partners Team www.connierice.com, is heavily equipped to assist all levels of needs and help folks get the best deal in this economy on the buy side while assisting those upside down, facing foreclosure, short sale or just ready to move on on the sale side. Most people have no idea what happens on the backside of a transaction. Just as a Physician has his/her assistants, office personnel and suppliers, we are professionals with YEARS of experience. Our goal is to help you make wise financial decisions in this Buyers Market. We are Financial Assistants who specialize in Real Estate.


Every agent says they are the best. Trust the team that is ranked 3rd in all of Greenville and whose hearts are in it and rely on this business as our sole means of support. You can trust the Connie Rice and Partners Team to meet and exceed all of your expectations. We are full time agents that only offer full service support! 

www.connierice.com


By Holly Lynch, Partner

12 Anniston Way, Greenville

Priced at $128,900

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	2
Home Size:	1,790 sq.ft.	Garage:	2
Lot Size:	0.20 acres	Community:	Anniston Ridge
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1221527
Property Description
This home is so welcoming and spotless! Gorgeous open plan perfect for downsizing or starter home! The one street neighborhood is wll maintained and close to EVERYTHING. Cherrydale, hospital, schools within mins and 15 to downtown. Step into this bright airy open home with neutrals and vaulted ceilings. Fresh paint and spotless carpets! 2" Blinds! Two bedrooms could be a Master both with large closets and baths attached. Third bedroom is a perfect office or hobby room .Plus relax on those sunny days without the bugs on a huge Sunroom! (not heated or cooled). It has a ceiling fan and door to the yard and is perfect to enjoy the breezes. Sun Room and Home Roof New in 2011! Every aspect of this house is in PERFECT condition. This is a fantastic steal in this area and will be a lifetime boast of a home for you!

Downtown Films

Days & Times: June 24th, 7:30 June 25th, 4PM and 7PM
Location: Gunter Theatre
Address: 300 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864 467-3000
Admission: All films $9 - General admission seating
URL: http://www.peacecenter.org

See the hottest independent films, acclaimed foreign features, and beloved cinema classics all right here in downtown Greenville. The Peace Center presents films you can’t see anywhere else, in HD and with digital surround sound. And enjoy beer and wine in the comfort of the Gunter Theatre.

Fourth of July is just around the corner!

Fourth of July is just around the corner! If you don’t have plans and looking for something to do…. Check out the beautiful display in our equally gorgeous downtown Greenville!

Wells Fargo Red, White and Blue Festival

Wells Fargo Red, White and Blue presented by AT&T is Greenville’s premier 4th of July celebration, showcasing one of the state’s largest fireworks displays, sponsored by Bon Secours St. Francis Health System. This annual patriotic tradition is scheduled for Monday, July 4, 2011, from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in downtown Greenville from Court Street to Camperdown Street and will encompass Broad Street from Laurens Street to Falls Street and Falls Park.

Along with live musical entertainment on two stages, the free event will also feature a variety of food and a children’s area from 5-10:30 p.m. at East Broad and Main streets. The schedule of entertainment includes:

Entertainment: Pepsi Main Stage

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Musical entertainment by Outshyne (country)
7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. – Musical entertainment by Benton Blount (country)

Entertainment: Peace Center Amphitheatre Stage

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. – Musical entertainment by 246 SC National Guard Band, performing traditional military music as well as some variety/pop covers.

Fireworks Display

9:45 p.m. - Bon Secours St. Francis Health System Fireworks
This year’s fireworks will feature choreographed music simulcast over radio station WESC 92.5 FM, from 8-10 p.m.

Move-in ready!

6 Twin Falls Drive, Simpsonville

Priced at $118,900

Bedrooms:	3	Bathrooms:	2 1/2
Home Size:	1400-1599 sq.ft.	Garage:	1
Lot Size:	65x139x65x139	Community:
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1224453
Property Description
This spacious 3 BR/2 1/2 BA home has been updated with low maintenance laminate hardwood floors, ceiling fans, light fixtures, fresh paint,new carpet upstairs and fresh landscaping. The home is perfect for entertaining it features a Great Room with fireplace, separate Dining Room and spacious bright white Kitchen with gas stove. Upstairs in the spacious master suite you will find a vaulted ceiling complete with a ceiling fan in addition to 2 Bedrooms plus a Bonus Room which could be used as a 4th Bedroom! A screened porch adds charm and privacy for entertaining friends and family. Plus you get a large level fenced back yard and separate fenced pet area. Outstanding price and great location only minutes from I-385, Discovery Water Park, Downtown Greenville, shopping, restaurants and more! This home is under warranty for one year with 1st American Home Warranty so no worries!

Traditional on the outside – Spacious On the inside!

4 Tallin Court, Greenville

Priced at $221,900

Bedrooms:	4	Bathrooms:	2 1/2
Home Size:	1,790 sq.ft.	Garage:	2
Lot Size:	0.20 acres	Community:
Property Type:	Single Family Detached	Year Built:
MLS Number:	1224371
Property Description
This home is family friendly located on a cul-de-sac in popular Summerfield subdivision with Excellent Mauldin Schools! A dream with just the right décor and updates. Plantation shutters, faux wood blinds, granite countertops, black appliances, custom ceramic tile and over 30 – 42" maple cabinets make this an incredible kitchen. 4x4 center island is a great place to gather. The open floor plan has the formal dining room and living room framing the huge foyer. A bonus room on the 1st floor can be used as an office, bonus or play room - it does not have a closet to be a bedroom. On the backside a wonderful family room with a 20 ft ceiling, lots of windows and excess to the fenced back yard. Go upstairs and you will find the laundry room and 4 bedrooms. The master has enough room to have a library, sitting room or exercise room. The walk-in closet is huge and the bathroom has even more closet space. The 3 bedrooms are spacious and organized on separate parts of the house. What a package. Don’t wait Call today!.