Meet Barry Kalinsky Our New Carriage Properties Team Member!

A native of Charleston, Barry has deep ties to the community and great knowledge of the city. He graduated from the Porter-Gaud School, George Washington University and received his law degree from the University of South Carolina. For the last 27 years, he owned and operated Bob Ellis Shoe Store, a King Street institution for over 65 years. With his legal education and business background, Barry is uniquely equipped to serve the needs of his clients.

Barry has been and continues to be involved in many downtown civic and community organizations. He has served on the boards of Spoleto Festival, Tidelands Bank and the Charleston Symphony to name a few. He is currently a trustee for the Historic Charleston Foundation and a member of the Mayor’s Commission on Tourism for the City of Charleston.

Barry is excited about the real estate opportunities Charleston presents and anxious to zealously assist his clients.

Carriage Properties continues to be a proud supporter of the arts and historic preservation in our community. Here are a few events we have participated in recently.

On October 19, 2016, Lynn Hanlin and Alton Brown represented Carriage Properties at the Low Country Land Trust Business Breakfast. The event brought together the conservation and business communities to focus on collaboration of planning for future projects and policies to maintain Charleston’s prominence as both an innovative and historic city.

 

On October 22, 2016, some of our partners and agents got a sneak peek at the member preview for the Gibbes Museum’s newest exhibit, Realm of the Spirit: Solomon R. Guggenheim Collection. The museum has a history of presenting Guggenheim’s collections and the current display features thirty-six masterworks by various artists.

 

 

 

 

 

Carriage Properties is pleased to welcome James Maybank as our newest agent. As a  native Charlestonian, James has a unique perspective on its transformation from a sleepy southern town to the most desirable location in the U.S. James attended Woodberry Forest School in Virginia before his love for the Lowcountry brought him home to the College of Charleston. After school, James sold real estate for a few years before taking the opportunity to run his own business and opening Midtown Bar and Grill on Upper King Street and eventually a suite of ancillary businesses. He and his partners are credited as the pioneers and trend setters of the upper king hospitality district.

 

After starting a family, James was ready for a change of pace and reestablished himself in the real estate business, where his vast knowledge of trends and locations make him an asset to both locals and newcomers alike. James’ previous business experience has also provided him with a keen insight as to the needs of clients looking for commercial opportunities in Charleston, specifically those interested in a hospitality based venture. James lives downtown with his wife and two children.  When not at work he can be found in the woods or on the water enjoying all that the Lowcountry has to offer.

Charleston was just named “Best City in the World” by Travel + Leisure Magazine. With so many historic landmarks and sites of interest, the city is in a constant state of renewal and rebirth to preserve its distinct Southern charm. The rejuvenation of a few of downtown’s key attractions has been a highlight of summer 2016.

The renovation of Colonial Lake is complete and is now open to the public. The restoration was a joint partnership between the Charleston Parks Conservancy, the City of Charleston and the Historic Charleston Foundation.  The project helped to improve the Colonial Lake basin, ensuring the water quality is more consistent with the Ashley River. Visitors will also notice landscaped gardens and shade trees around the lake, as well as an abundance of lighting.  The selection of 58 benches and the seating wall along Rutledge Avenue are an invitation to relax and enjoy a favorite book. The newly renovated Colonial Lake is the perfect spot to enjoy Charleston’s beautiful weather!

After initially opening to the public in 1905, the Gibbes Museum underwent an approximately $13.5 million, two-year renovation, which was completed in May 2016. The first floor of the Gibbes is now freely accessible to the public and features an education center with classrooms, artist studios, lecture spaces, a café and store. The second and third floor gallery spaces were enlarged to allow display of 600 works from the museum’s permanent collection. It currently features vast collections of American Art from the 18^th century to present.  One highlighted exhibition is The Things We Carry: Contemporary Art in the South, which features a diverse group of artists as they confront the challenging history and recent events in Charleston and the greater South through their artwork.

The Gaillard Center, Charleston’s original municipal auditorium, was built in 1968 and hosted the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Spoleto events and concerts for multiple years.  Over the past three years, the 1800 – seat venue has undergone a $142-Million-dollar renovation and is now open to the public. The newly rejuvenated Gaillard Center is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and event lawns. Through the end of July, the gardens of the Gaillard will be displaying an art installation designed by the local architecture, design and preservation firm Meadors to raise awareness of the homeless in Charleston.

With the advent of warm weather signifying the arrival of summer in the Lowcountry, comes the Spoleto Festival USA. The event was founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti to establish a counterpart to the Festival dei Due Mondi (The Festival of Two Worlds) in Spoleto, Italy. The annual 17-day soiree showcases renowned and emerging artists in dance, opera, theater, and music. Many of the performances are in Charleston’s architecturally unique historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces.

This year’s festival begins on May 27th and runs until June 12th. Headlining this year’s festival are the sold out performances of Porgy and Bess, the famed opera by George Gershwin based on the novel by Charleston native DuBose Heyward with costume and set design by Lowcountry artist Johnathan Green. Porgy and Bess will be the first Spoleto performance in the newly renovated Gaillard Center that housed the first production of the opera in 1970.  Another highlight is The Importance of Being Earnest at the Dock Street Theatre. Oscar Wilde’s stinging satire has proven to be a festival staple and is making its 10^th appearance in Charleston. Also, multiple houses of worship in the Holy City will play host to various musical performances throughout the festival, commencing with the 40^th-season Celebration Concert at the Charleston Gaillard Center conducted by the esteemed Steven Sloane. Rustic Southern music with a modern sensibility by Grammy-Award winners Old Crow Medicine Show will be featured in the College of Charleston Cistern Yard. The preceding events are but a few of the engaging selections for entertainment during this year’s festival.

For a peek into the secret gardens of some of Charleston’s most celebrated residences, Spoleto will partner with the Charleston Horticultural Society and The Garden Conservancy for exclusive tours. Each weekend will offer exploration of eight lush oases of verdant green hidden amongst the brick walls and iron gates of downtown.

A question we often receive from those looking to sell their home is, “How can I get the best price and quickly sell my home?”  A furnished house undoubtedly offers a better vision for the prospective buyer.  Subtle décor, decluttering, minimal tailoring, and tidiness are the key elements to making your home move to the top of a buyer’s list.

 

Exterior Enhancements

The exterior of a home is the very first impression for a potential buyer.  It is not necessary to have an abundance of plants and flowers, but simple refinements will hold one’s attention.  The obvious maintenance of trimming overgrown grass, plants, and vines can make a large impact.  Sweeping porches, stairs, paths and even pressure washing are often items that get overlooked, and when forgotten, can quickly diminish the curb appeal and create disinterest.  

 

Light, Light, Light!

Our listing agents prefer to arrive prior to homes being shown in order to ensure the lighting is perfect for the time of the day.  Some rooms may show better with interior lighting, but other rooms boast natural lighting.

 

Keeping it tidy

A house must be kept tidy in order for it to show well.  It is important to remember the small things when we say tidy, such as, putting away the ‘counter items’, such as: sponges, toothpaste, dish soap, etc.  Most of us are accepting of animals, but it is best they aren’t involved when a prospective buyer views it. Putting away toys, food bowls, and bedding  prior to a showing is recommended.  Another suggestion is making sure items out in the open are orderly, such as blankets and towels being folded.

 

Personal items

Potential buyers want to ‘picture’ themselves in the homes they request to see.  This is difficult to achieve if there are an abundance of family photos or children’s artwork and excessive amounts of décor. De-personalizing also means removing clutter from around the house, including overflowing storage spaces, closets, and garages.  When a buyer cannot ‘fit’ themselves in the home, they begin to lose interest.

 

Inviting Scents

Something about the smell of freshly picked flowers or ‘just out of the oven’ cookies is welcoming.  It is not necessary to bake cookies or pick flowers for every showing, but you can mock the scent with a candle!  

 

These tips are aesthetically pleasing to each of the senses and communicates appreciation for the home.  In our experience, buyers tend to lean toward homes that they feel have been well-maintained and cared for before cosmetic enhancements.  Our mission is to create the best possible buying and selling experience for clients.  We believe following these tips favor an enjoyable and seamless transaction process.  

Suburbia and busy city lifestyles are not for everyone.  To some, living away from the hustle and the bustle sounds magical. The combination of an abundance of land, panoramic views, backyard water access, and ample privacy is a dream come true.  Below are spectacular listings containing all things mentioned…with at least an acre of land!

940 Windsor is located on a former rice plantation and offers over 8 acres of land.  It features views of three rivers, a boathouse with covered boat parking, a colorful array of native flowers, and an 8,400 square foot manor.  Windsor Plantation is a rare find and is nothing short of breathtaking.

2137 Hope Plantation boasts over 11 acres of land with a stunning mansion style house covering 8,400 square feet.  A private-property bridge leads you through the scenic, lush landscaping before you arrive at the property and are welcomed by endless water views.  You can enjoy the picturesque nature of Hope Plantation from the 100-foot floating dock or one of the multiple porches surrounding the house.

There are still options if you want to live in a serene waterfront environment,

but remain relatively close to the city…

4580 Olde Smoak House is situated on one beautiful acre along the Toogoodoo Creek in the charming town of Meggett, which is just a short peaceful ride from the City of Charleston.  The blooming azaleas and large live oaks coat the perimeter of the 2,400 square foot light-filled cottage.  The most difficult decision will often become whether to enjoy the views of the spacious rear porch or the private deep-water dock?

607 North Shore is over six acres of astonishing beauty. The estate contains a carefully designed 6,100 square foot residence situated perfectly on well-maintained landscaping that overlooks the Charleston Harbor and Cityscape.  Enjoying the allure of Charleston is possible from nearly every room in the house. The property provides a unique experience for springtime weather on the private deep-water dock, located just steps away from the backyard patio, grilling area, and heated pool.

Owning a part of rural Charleston is a true privilege, given the surrounding wetlands and tremendous amount of native foliage to enhance the exterior of the home.  Carriage Properties, often noted for specializing in historic property on the peninsula, also fosters an immense amount of knowledge and appreciation for the outer areas throughout Charleston.

April is a busy month for Charleston!  There are several stage performances, festivals, fundraisers, and annual events throughout the Lowcountry.  It is nearly impossible to catch everything, but here are some of our recommendations:

 

The Summerville Flowertown Festival started 44 years ago as an enjoyable way to bring the community together while benefiting the local YMCAs.  Now known as the premier event in the Town of Summerville, visitors come from all over to enjoy the radiant azaleas, blooming wisteria, and gleaming dogwoods.  The event has now expanded to three days featuring artists and vendors from along the Eastern seaboard, delicious local fare, and a kid’s corner with activities and carnival rides.  Admission is free.

The Cooper River Bridge Run, a race which promotes heart health and allows participants to enjoy scenic views along the way to the finish line. The Arthur Ravenel Bridge is now host to this well-known Charleston event (because who wants to abandon a legacy?) which is now in its 39^th year, benefiting an abundance of charities, such as Ronald McDonald House, American Cancer Society, Special Olympics of SC, and Pet Helpers (just to name a few).  Runners and walkers get the opportunity to travel across the bridge, weaving in and out of four lanes legally, with live bands and onlookers cheering them to the finish line.

The Volvo Car Open (originally Family Circle Cup) is now in its 44^th year and is the largest women’s tennis tournament in the world.  Daniel Island is host to this renowned event, which has included several well-known champions such as Tracy Austin, Serena Williams, Steffi Graf, and Venus Williams.  The event originally began in Hilton Head in 1973 and eventually called Charleston home in 2001.

On April 9^th, a Saturday highlight begins- the Marion Square Farmer’s Market! Indulge in the best local fruits, vegetables, and meats that Charleston has to offer.  This reoccurring Saturday morning event features not only a variety of local fare, but also vendors, artists, and live music.  We couldn’t think of a better place to gather the food for your table!

Whether you are a local or a tourist, get out there and experience Local Charleston, you will not be disappointed!

Spring is upon us!  In Charleston, we spend summers at the beach and springtime in the garden. Spring hues are beginning to suffuse Charleston; not only are people sporting their wardrobe color wheel, but our city truly begins to sparkle with various bright shades.  The abundance of color, combined with warm weather and cool breezes make the scenery ideal. We see our residents taking advantage of the comfortable spring weather and the extra hour of daylight by being outdoors, priming their gardens.  Though many properties in Downtown Charleston do not have the space for a crisp, well-groomed lawn, there are the lucky few that do and they certainly make the most of it!

Below are some of our favorite landscaped yards from our listings:

 

22 Rutledge flaunts its landscaping beauty with Palmetto Trees, Cedar, and centipede grass.  When the season is in full effect, the Impatiens, Crape myrtle, Elephant Ears, and Caladiums bloom and display a variety of color throughout the greenery of 22 Rutledge.

217 Ashley is one of the few properties Downtown that offers ample space for front and backyard gardening.  The owners took full advantage of this by including Magnolias, Palmetto Trees, Boxwood, Rosemary, and Hydrangeas.  In order to preserve their flawless garden, they included Oleander, which is a beautiful, yet poisonous flower that keeps the bugs at bay.

7 King Street has miraculous curb appeal.  The bright green Boxwood lines the front perimeter amplifying the sunny yellow exterior of the house.  The grand Crape myrtle flowering tree is perfectly situated on the sidewalk, leaving a copious amount of space for the ‘full bloom’.  The highlight of 7 King Street is the charming Japanese Magnolia tree, which features lovely pink flowers in the spring.

12 Franklin emphasizes the color scheme of springtime with its radiant Wisteria, Crape myrtles, and Magnolias.  The large Palmetto Trees are sited perfectly for just the right amount of shade and sunshine.

 

Between the vibrant colors and enjoyable weather, Charleston is the prime location to fully experience the Spring season.  The Historic Charleston Foundation understood this 69 years ago when they started the Festival of Houses and Gardens.  This is a tour that gives you rare access to some of the most elegant houses and gardens on the Peninsula of Charleston.  The tour lasts until April 24^th, 2016 and tickets can purchased be here.

Charleston Trident Association of Realtors offers the esteemed annual Realtor of Distinction Award to the top 10% of realtors in the Tri-County area. The recognized agents exceeded expectations through completion of additional class time outside of standard requirements to gain extensive knowledge in market trends and professional development for the purpose of benefiting client needs and generating record sales volume. There are three primary categories of agent qualification:

The Executive Circle is the crown of the three categories, requiring at least $11,500,000 in volume.

The President’s Circle is the second tier, requiring $7,200,000 in volume.

The Director’s Circle requires a minimum of $5,400,000 in volume.

Another category, The Rookie Circle, is for new agents (less than 2 years experience) who sell more than $4,000,000. Sallie Halsey attained Rookie Circle status and was also awarded Rookie of the Year! In 2015, Sallie sold over $4,200,000 as a first year agent.  Though Sallie is new to her role as an agent, she is not unfamiliar to the real estate world or Charleston. As a College of Charleston alum and resident of Charleston for over 25 years, Sallie says, “I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”  The close proximity of the beaches, the pace and kindness of the locals, and the unparalleled dining are some of Sallie’s favorite things about Charleston.