Avery Edwards, Author at DHM Real Estate

Why Winter May Be the Best Time to Move in Charleston

Posted on September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Moving to—or even within—Charleston can be exciting, but timing your move can make a huge difference. If you’re wondering the best time to move in Charleston, winter might be your ideal choice. Winter in Charleston means fewer tourists, cooler weather, and lower costs. DHM invites you to explore the distinct advantages of relocating to our charming Southern city in winter.

COOLER WEATHER MEANS LESS SWEAT

Unlike the sweltering summers, winter in Charleston provides mild and comfortable temperatures. That means less sweating and more efficiency when loading and unloading your belongings, particularly if you’re relocating from a state with a hot climate like Florida.

Cooler weather also means you won’t have to worry about heat-related issues like melted candles or spoiled perishables. Winter temperatures in Charleston average between 45°F and 60°F, providing a more comfortable environment for you and your belongings.

If you want to avoid the sweat altogether, hiring professional movers when moving from Florida to South Carolina can make the process even easier. With fewer people relocating in winter, moving companies have more availability. This allows you to secure your preferred moving date easily. Professional interstate movers can handle the logistics of the move, such as coordinating transport and managing the paperwork for interstate relocation. Also, they are equipped to protect your belongings from potential weather-related issues, ensuring everything arrives safely at your new Charleston home.

FEWER TOURISTS MAKE FOR EASIER TRAVEL

Traveling during winter in Charleston is generally easier and less stressful. Charleston’s summer traffic can be quite heavy due to the influx of tourists. Conversely, roads are less crowded and traffic is more manageable in winter. The time you’ll save on the road is particularly important for those moving long distances.

OFF-SEASON BRINGS LOWER COSTS

Winter moves are often more affordable. Since it’s the off-peak season for movers, you can take advantage of discounts and promotions. Lower demand for moving services translates to lower prices for you.

CHARLESTON WINTER ACTIVITIES & SPECIALS

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll find that winter in Charleston has its charm. The city offers plenty of activities and events that are less crowded during the cooler months. Special seasonal events include holiday markets at Marion Square, Aquarium Aglow at the South Carolina Aquarium, and the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park. Southern Living Magazine even holds a special holiday weekend to kickoff the season called Illumination Charleston.

The Museum Mile offers locals a special discounted rate in January that lets you visit numerous historic sites for one price. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your new city. Additionally, the winter months allow you to explore your new surroundings at a leisurely pace without the heat and crowds of tourists that summer brings. And you can’t be a true Lowcountry resident until you’ve been to your first oyster roast!

Whether you’re moving from another state or just across town, winter truly is the best time to move in Charleston. The cooler weather, lower costs, and fewer tourists make it an ideal season for relocating. And don’t forget to contact DHM for help with all your Charleston real estate needs.

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How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for Luxury Properties

Posted on August 13, 2024August 14, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Whether you’re buying or selling, finding the right real estate agent for luxury properties can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of the high-end market. Here’s what you should look for in a real estate agent to ensure a smooth and successful transaction for your luxury property.

UNDERSTANDING THE LUXURY MARKET

The first step in choosing the right real estate agent is ensuring that they deeply understand the local luxury market. Luxury properties often have unique features, require special marketing strategies, and attract different kinds of buyers. An agent with experience in this market will be familiar with high-end neighborhoods, luxury home trends, and the specific needs of affluent clients. They will know how to price your home correctly and how to present it to attract the right buyers.

PROVEN TRACK RECORD

A real estate agent’s track record strongly indicates their ability to handle luxury properties. Look for agents with a history of selling homes in your desired price range and location. Ask for references and consult online reviews. Consider past sales to gauge their success rate. An agent with a proven track record in luxury real estate will have the skills, connections, and knowledge necessary to close deals efficiently and effectively.

MARKETING EXPERTISE

Marketing luxury properties requires a different approach than standard homes. The right agent will have a comprehensive marketing plan that includes high-quality photography, virtual staging, and a strong online presence. They also have access to exclusive networks and can reach potential buyers both locally and internationally. They will hold agent-exclusive open houses to preview your home to just the right area agents that can bring in the high-end buyers. Marketing expertise will ensure your property gets the exposure it deserves.

PERSONAL COMPATIBILITY

Buying or selling a luxury property is a significant financial transaction. Working with an agent you trust and feel comfortable with is essential. Consider their communication style, responsiveness, and professionalism during your initial meetings. You’ll be working closely with this person, so choose someone who listens to your needs, respects your preferences, and is genuinely invested in your goals.

NEGOTIATION SKILLS

Negotiation is crucial to any real estate transaction, but is especially so in the luxury market. The right agent must have excellent negotiation skills to ensure you get the best possible deal. They should advocate for your interests while maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor.

Likewise, a good real estate agent will be able to advise you on the things you should avoid saying when buying a home. For example, you should avoid telling the seller your maximum budget because this will limit space for negotiation. If asked, you should instead provide a range, rather than a specific amount. These are all things your real estate agent can teach you.

TRANSPARENCY & INTEGRITY

Transparency and integrity are non-negotiable qualities in a real estate agent. You need someone who will be honest about market conditions, potential challenges, and the true value of properties. They should provide clear explanations and keep you informed throughout the process. An agent with high ethical standards will prioritize your best interests and work diligently to achieve your goals.

IN CONCLUSION

Choosing the right real estate agent for luxury properties requires carefully considering their market expertise, track record, marketing skills, personal compatibility, negotiation prowess, and integrity. DHM’s agents all have years (if not decades) of experience and expertise specific to the Charleston luxury real estate market. Be sure to check out their bios and recent sales to find the perfect match who will effectively represent your interests and help you confidently navigate the the luxury real estate market.

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The Remarkable Family History of the Schmidt-Connor House

Posted on July 29, 2024August 2, 2024 by Avery Edwards

In its over 200 years of existence, 11 Montagu Street has been home to generations of just 5 families, including several remarkable women. Its story is a combination of its owners’ architectural visions and the circumstances of history. It begins when the lot was purchased in 1818 for the widow Elizabeth Schmidt, whose father also lived on the street. She began to build a home, but perhaps because her father died the next year and her son the year after, she never finished nor lived in the house. In 1828, Mrs. Schmidt sold the property to grain merchant Robert Conner, who completed the structure you see today.

The 3-story single house combines Neoclassical and Classical Revival elements into a transitional style between the British Georgian and the more American Adams style. Constructed of brick with a scored stucco exterior, the original part of the main house follows the classic Charleston single floor plan with double piazzas and a particularly exuberant piazza door. The interior door is simpler, with bullseye medallions. Likewise, the piazza columns are plainer Tuscan order, and considerably wider than most in downtown Charleston. Inside, a center stair hall is flanked by living and dining rooms on the first floor and 2 corresponding bedrooms on each of the upper levels.

The kitchen building, now part of the guest wing, was originally separate from the main house and consisted of 2 stories. Like many downtown brick structures, it was seriously damaged in the great earthquake of 1886. When rebuilt, it was reduced to one level, but retains high ceilings and the smaller upper windows that used to belong to the second floor.

In 1840, Mr. Connor died, leaving the estate to his son, also named Robert Conner. As the younger Mr. Conner was a minor, the house was sold on his behalf to exchange broker John Stock at a price of $10,000 (around $359,000 today – imagine the bargain for a downtown Charleston home!) Like the current owners, Mr. Stock lived at 11 Montagu for over 40 years, until his death. The house then passed through 2 generations of his nephew’s Mitchell family. At some point in the 1880s, they added the polygonal projections to the second and third stories to accommodate spacious bathrooms, as well as the corresponding piazza bay below.

S. Hirschmann & Son, Grocery c.1924 — S. Hirschmann & Son Grocery c.1924 Courtesy of the South Carolina Historical Society

Then in 1910, the property was acquired by Mrs. Rosa Hirschmann for $6000 (or $415,000 today). The Hirschmanns were a prominent Jewish family whose founder, Solomon, has come to SC in the 1870s as a peddlar. He moved his wife, Lena, two sons, and three daughters (Henry and Joseph, and three daughters, Katie, Cecile, and Rosa) to Charleston in 1883 and established a wholesale grocery, S. Hirschmann and Son on East Bay Street. The store was well-known in the community for providing credit and support to fellow Jewish immigrants. Henry Hirshmann (the son in Hirschmann and Son) married Rosa Sternberger (1876-1945), a college classmate of his sister (also coincidentally named Rosa) in 1896. The Sternbergers were another well-known SC Jewish family. It Mrs. Hirschmann purchased 11 Montagu Street and made it her family’s home for the next 53 years. Together, she and Henry raised 5 sons and 2 daughters here.

Rosa Sternberger Hirschmann was avid supporter of women’s rights who advocated for girls to receive educations equal to boys. To that end, she taught Sunday classes from the porch at 11 Montagu Street to “Rosa’s Girls.” This pioneer was also superintendent of the Brith Sholom’s Daughters of Israel religious school for almost 30 years, president of the KKBE Sisterhood, and a Grand Matron in the Eastern Star. Mrs. Hirschmann also held positions with South Carolina Federation of Temple Sisterhoods, the National Council of Jewish Women, and the Federation of Women’s Clubs. In addition to her civic and philanthropic endeavors, Rosa ran the family grocery business along with her sons for more than a decade after her husband Henry died.

Painted mural in the stair hall of 11 Montagu Street — When the Robertson family was restoring the house, they uncovered the scored and stenciled stair hall walls, which have been reinterpreted today. They also discovered the cypress paneling was painted to resemble mahogany and oak. Such faux finishes were very popular in the 19th century.

Other notable members of the Hirschmann family include Henry’s younger sister and Rosa’s classmate and sister-in-law, Love Rosa Hirschmann Gantt (1875-1935). She was one of the first two women to graduate from the Medical College of South Carolina in 1901 and only the second woman in the United States to be board-certified. However, her belief in eugenics adds controversy to her accomplishments. One of Henry and Rosa’s sons who grew up at 11 Montagu Street, Joseph Mordecai Hirschman, was an architect with the notable New York firm Walker and Gillette.

Mrs. Hirschmann took out permits to add to the house in 1933 and to remodel the original kitchen building in 1936. Then in 1963, the house was sold to the Holsclaw family. The Holsclaws in turn sold to the the Robertson family in 1979. In 1981, they demolished the 1933 rear addition and built the current hyphen that accommodates the modern kitchen and wonderful 2-story atrium. The Robertsons also connected the original kitchen to the main house, creating the guest wing. For 45 years, Rob and Martha Ann continued the long tradition of raising generations of their family here. Now you have the remarkable opportunity to add your name to the list of stewards who have made 11 Montagu Street their family home for centuries.

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5 Steps to Move Antique Furniture Safely

Posted on June 4, 2024June 4, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Safely transporting antique furniture requires careful planning and attention to detail. Since these pieces are often valuable and sentimental, you’ll want to take extra care when moving them to a new home. Here are some practical tips for transporting antique furniture to ensure your valuable pieces arrive at your new home in excellent condition. While proper preparation and handling take some time, in the end they can make a significant difference in preventing damage and preserving the beauty and value of your cherished items.

1. ASSESS YOUR FURNITURE

Start by assessing your antique furniture to determine which pieces are fragile. Also identify any delicate parts that might require extra protection. Then document the current condition of your furniture with photos and detailed notes. This will not only help you remember how each piece looked before the move, but it’s important for insurance purposes should the worst happen and you need to make a claim.

2. PREPARE & PACK YOUR ANTIQUES

Before packing, be sure to clean your furniture, as dust and grime can cause scratches during transport. Disassemble parts that can be safely removed, such as mirrors or legs, to make your pieces easier to handle. Then wrap and pad each item carefully, using the right packing materials. Bubble wrap, foam, and moving blankets are excellent choices for protecting antique. Custom crates or boxes provide additional security, especially for high-value items. Be sure to pay special attention to corners and edges to prevent chips and dings.

3. HIRE PROFESSIONAL MOVERS

You’ll want to hire professional movers who have specific experience in transporting antique furniture. Research and vet moving companies thoroughly, looking for those with positive reviews as well as specialized services for antiques. You can further protect yourself with moving insurance. Understand the different types of moving insurance and confirm that the moving company offers adequate coverage for your valuable items. Finally, don’t be afraid to communicate any specific needs to make sure the movers understand how to handle your furniture properly.

4. SAFELY LOAD & TRANSPORT

Loading and unloading antique furniture requires special care. Make sure each piece is handled gently and securely placed into the moving truck. The transportation environment also needs to be ideal for antiques, avoiding exposure to damaging temperatures and moisture. Properly secure all items to prevent shifting during transit and reduce the risk of scratches, dents, and other forms of damage.

5. UNPACK & REASSEMBLE

Once in your new home, take the time to unpack your furniture carefully. Reassemble any pieces that were taken apart. Refer to your documentation and photos to confirm everything has arrived in its original condition. If you followed these careful planning, packing, and transport tips, you can be confident you did all you can to safely move your antique furniture. Now all that’s left to do is enjoy your family heirlooms in their (and your) new residence!

Do you have any additional tips or experiences you’d like to share? Please leave them in the comments. And be sure to subscribe to the DHM Blog for more moving tips and home care advice.

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Colorful Landscape Staples that Keep Charleston Beautiful

Posted on May 7, 2024May 7, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Spring has sprung in Charleston, as evinced by all the beautiful blooms sprouting in area gardens and parks. When planning your own landscape design, be sure to include plants that are well-adapted to the area. They not only blend well aesthetically with other local flora, but more importantly, thrive in the environment.

The South Carolina Lowcountry is conducive to many plant types, from massive Live Oak trees adorned with Spanish moss that add a canopy of shade, to Southern Pines, to a number of spectacular ornamentals and unique grasses. Here are a few excellent choices for plants that not only do well in the Charleston-area climate, but also add beauty to your home.

CAMELLIA

These moderately tall shrubs boast colorful flowers that bloom in the winter. One of the most appealing attributes of the camellia family is that they are evergreen. In the Lowcountry climate, the leaf portion of stays green year-round.

While there are more than 3000 individual varieties across the US South, the Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica) is most popular around Charleston. It was brought to the New World late in the 18th century by French botanist Andre Michaux and earned the name the “Rose of Winter.”

The camellia proves hardy in hot Lowcountry summers, and supplies a vibrant show of color through the winter months. You’ll see versions in hot pink, to pale pink, to white, and combinations of those colors. Many of the shades are the perfect landscape compliment to the primary colors of azaleas. Camellias also come in varieties that produce double flowers.

If you would like to see thousands of camellias in bloom, be sure to attend one of Middleton Place’s camellia walks. These free guided tours take place in early February each year, when the flowers are at their most spectacular. You’ll even visit the 1786 Reine des Fleurs, one of the first camellias planted in America.

Did you know that tea leaves come from a camellia? The Camellia sinensis also grows well in the Lowcountry. You can even tour America’s only tea producer, the Charleston Tea Plantation on Wadmalaw Island. Here, you’ll see fields of the plants growing – and if you come at the right time, even being harvested. While there, be sure to sample some American Classic Tea.

AZALEA

The azalea has provided the most popular spring color display in South Carolina for centuries. Each spring, thousands of avid fans across the south flock to Summerville’s Flowertown Festival to see the blossoms at their peak.

While some cultivators across Charleston are indigenous, others were imported from the Orient. The azalea finds an ideal home in the shade under native Live Oak trees. The pH soil levels in the Lowcountry are also next to perfect for growing massive clusters of azaleas.

The shallow root systems of nearly all azalea varieties are excellent for providing quick moisture from minimal rainfall. In isolated landscape planters, some irrigation can be helpful during long dry spells. They rarely need pruning, except in situations where shaping or containment are desired.

CREPE MYRTLE

The crepe myrtle is a flowering shrub that can also grow to heights classified as a tree. Like the camellia and azalea, Lagerstroemia indica has a number of cultivators, many brought to the US from parts of Asia.

The name is indicative of the crepe paper-like bark that covers the tree’s trunk. As a crepe myrtle grows more mature, the light and dark spots on the trunk become an important part of its visual appeal. The pink, purple, or white flowers are equally as breathtaking.

Frequently, crepe myrtles are cut back in the late fall and allowed to winter over with virtually no top portion. During the next spring, shoots of limbs multiply. As the smaller crepe myrtles grows into trees, they provide a color spectacle that can last the better part of the Lowcountry summer.

DOGWOOD

Another species of flowering landscape foliage prevalent in the Lowcountry is the dogwood tree. Many native species grow wild in surrounding wooded areas. The two most common colors of its flowers are pink and white. Old dogwood trees often have an under layer of azaleas augmenting their spring display. The dogwood’s flowering is a signal of spring.

While not quite as visible as the bark of the crepe myrtle, the dogwood also has a unique texture to its trunk. As the trees mature, definitive bark grain begins to help foretell the years the tree has been alive.

Many historic homes in and around Charleston are as known for their fantastic gardens as they are for the actual house. Next time you are strolling through downtown Charleston, be sure to notice these popular landscape trees. Together with annual and perennial flowers, they keep Charleston blooming in vibrant color.

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Spoleto Festival Insider Tips & Tricks

Posted on May 3, 2024May 17, 2024 by Avery Edwards

The annual Spoleto Festival USA runs from May 22-June 9 this year. Charleston residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to enjoy world-class theatrical and musical performances. Want to know how to enjoy the festival like a local? Whether this will be your first Spoleto or you are a regular, here are some insider tips and tricks to make the most out of your visit to the festival.

SPOLETO ON A BUDGET

Tickets are less expensive for weekday performances than for those on the weekends.
Some city garages offer free parking during the performances.
Select events offer senior, military, student, and group discounts.
Piccolo Spoleto is a complementary festival with regional rather than international artists. Many Piccolo events are free, such as the opening weekend concert at the Customs House, the Marion Square outdoor art exhibition, and the Festival Finale at Hampton Park. Others have only a minimal charge.
Select performances have tickets starting at $25. Be sure to check these out.

DINING CONSIDERATIONS

Restaurants and bars tend to be full before and after performances. Take this into consideration when scheduling your meals out and plan accordingly.
Allow more time than you think you need if dining before a show.
If you’re not attending a performance, choose to dine during those hours. Reservations are much easier to get at those times.

DOWNTOWN PARKING

Parking is always difficult. Be prepared to drive around to find a spot and then walk a good distance to the venue. The earlier you arrive, the better chance to find a good parking spot.
On-street parking meters are free after 6:00pm and on Sundays.
Neighborhood parking is usually limited to an hour or two. If you park in a residential area, you will be ticketed if you stay longer.
Some garages offer flat rates for the evening.
If possible, leave the car at home and walk or Uber.

SPOLETO VENUES

Indoor venues tend to be very cold, despite the usual Charleston heat and humidity outside. Be sure to bring a wrap or a jacket with you.
You can purchase last-minute tickets at the venue an hour before the show. They are not discounted, but are often available, especially for shows at larger venues such as the College of Charleston Cistern and the Gaillard Center.
Go to the festival office at the Gaillard Center to get information and brochures on Spoleto and Piccolo Spoleto. They will provide all the information on times, dates, length of productions, maps, etc.

And if you enjoy your trip to Charleston so much you’d like to move here permanently or invest in a vacation home, Disher, Hamrick & Myers can help you find the perfect place! Call us at 843.577.4115 to start your Charleston home search.

Do you have any additional insider tips for Spoleto? If so, please add them in the comments.

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Six Spring Blooms in Charleston Gardens

Posted on May 1, 2024May 7, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Spring is a colorful time in Charleston, SC. From the lawns of historic plantations to decorative flowers in parks, the city rebounds from winter with a burst of pigments and hues. From Hampton Park to Middleton Place, there are so many places to catch a glimpse of the vibrant spring blossoms. Take the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and soak in the sights of these 6 blooms, which you will see everywhere in Charleston gardens this spring.

AZALEAS

Want to catch a glimpse of azaleas in full bloom? You’ll have plenty of opportunities to view these shade-tolerant blooms in Charleston, where they blossom for several weeks. Azalea Park in nearby Summerville is filled with hot pink azaleas, as well as other flowering plants like lavender, wisteria and white dogwoods. The annual Flowertown Festival, held in April, brings thousands of guests to view its flora and enjoy food, craft booths and family fun activities.

DAFFODILS

Daffodils take hold in spring in Charleston gardens. You can find them as early as February in most parts of the city. These perennials bloom until the end of April and continue to come back every season. Typically planted in the fall, daffodils are resistant to deer and other pests and hold up well to the hustle and bustle of the city. They display blooms that are white, yellow, orange, pink or tricolor. They are often seen as a harbinger of spring.

CAMELLIAS

Charleston is home to hundreds of types of camellias, including the “Reine des Fleurs” or “Queen of Flowers.” This specimen is the only surviving one of the first four camellias planted and cultivated in America – in 1786! You can see it today at Middleton Place, which hosts camellia walks throughout the spring. On this tour, you’ll learn about the different forms these flowers take and see other ancient camellias as well as more modern cultivars.

SOUTHERN MAGNOLIAS

The city is famous for its magnolias, which are native to South Carolina. These trees come into bloom in May, producing gorgeous foliage in spring and early summer. Their saucer-like white flowers emit a wonderful scent that is used in many locally-produced perfumes, candles, soaps and home fragrances. This iconic tree lends its name to the famous Magnolia Plantation, where romantic gardens allow it and other plants to grow informally, as nature intended.

NOISETTE ROSES

Take the time to pause and smell the roses in Charleston. Here, they bloom in late April and continue until the first frost, which is usually not until November. Charleston is the birthplace of one of the most famous garden roses, the Noisette rose. In fact, it’s the only class of rose to originate in the US. No surprise, they’re a favorite in Charleston gardens. You can also find them growing in public attractions like Boone Hall and Hampton Park.

HYDRANGEAS

If you’re a hydrangea lover, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to view them throughout Charleston in early summer. That’s when thousands of these large blossoms, which make beautiful cuttings, are in bloom. Hydrangeas present in many colors, including a rarity for the flower kingdom: blue. Interestingly, their hue depends on the pH of the surrounding soil, creating shades from white to pink to purple to blue. The floral clusters also dry very well, so you can enjoy their beauty into fall.

No matter where you roam in Charleston – from parks to plantations – there are plenty of places to catch a glimpse of these beautiful spring colors. Make sure you bring the camera and enjoy the colorful palate this spring!

Author David Wheeler is a landscape design writer and nature enthusiast. He is an avid traveler and loves to spend his time hiking and strolling through magnificent gardens, learning about rare and native flowers across the world.

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Tips For Downsizing Your Home

Posted on April 30, 2024May 17, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Downsizing your home is a change not just in living arrangements, but also in lifestyle and mindset. Whether retiring to Charleston or simply seeking a more manageable living space, downsizing offers the opportunity to simplify your surroundings and prioritize what truly matters. In this article, we’ll explore the process of downsizing your home and offer practical tips to help you navigate this transition with confidence and ease.

KEEP, SELL, OR DONATE?

To effectively downsize, you first need to declutter before you move. Begin by systematically sorting through each room, deciding what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Items in good condition that you no longer need can be sold through online platforms or yard sales. Consider donating gently used belongings to local charities or shelters. Items that are damaged or unusable should be responsibly disposed of through recycling or waste management facilities. Prioritize keeping essentials and sentimental items that will fit comfortably in your new Charleston home.

If all this seems overwhelming, consider hiring a company such as Move Managers or Smooth Transitions. They will help you determine what to keep as well as safely pack your things and even set them up in your new place. Remember, downsizing is a process that takes time and effort, but with the right approach, you can simplify your move and transition smoothly into your new home.

MEASURE YOUR NEW HOME

Now that you have determined what items will be coming with you, you need to consider the dimensions of your new Charleston home. Start by measuring each room, noting any architectural features such as alcoves or bay windows. Then create a floor plan to visualize how your furniture will fit in each space.

You can use online tools and apps to map out your rooms and experiment with different furniture arrangements. RoomSketcher, Floorplanner, and Planner 5D offer user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of furniture options for creating both 2D and 3D floor plans. Homestyler provides a simple platform with drag-and-drop functionality and a vast library of furniture and decor items. MagicPlan offers a mobile app that allows you to create floor plans using photos and includes room measurement tools. Visualizing the layout of your new home will also help you decide which belongings to keep and which to let go of, based on how they will fit into your new space.

USE MULTIPURPOSE, SPACE-SAVING FURNITURE

Once you know your new home’s layout, it’s time to evaluate your current furniture to determine what will fit and what won’t. Large items like king beds, china cabinets, and sectional sofas may not be suitable in your smaller space. Instead, opt for multipurpose pieces and storage solutions that will better meet the needs of your new lifestyle.

Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a bed with built-in storage or a dining table that doubles as a workspace. Consider space-saving ideas such as:

Murphy beds (wall beds)
ottomans with hidden storage
wall-mounted shelves
convertible dining tables
nesting tables

By selecting furniture that is both practical and space-saving, you can create a comfortable and functional living environment in your smaller home.

In conclusion, downsizing your home is about more than just minimizing space. It’s about maximizing the potential for a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the transition with confidence. Embrace the opportunities in downsizing and enjoy the advantages of a more streamlined and intentional way of living in Charleston.

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DHM Sponsors the 2024 CSOL Designer Showhouse

Posted on January 30, 2024April 2, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Disher, Hamrick & Myers is proud to announce we are the presenting sponsor for the 2024 Charleston Symphony Orchestra League (CSOL) Designer Showhouse, as the beloved annual event returns for the first time in 4 years. This exciting partnership between CSOL and DHM highlights our shared commitment to the arts and the vibrant cultural scene in Charleston. We hope locals and visitors alike will take this unique opportunity to explore a stunningly-designed historic home while supporting a worthy cause.

watercolor painting of 6 Montagu Street by Mary Whyte for the CSOL Designer Showhouse — Watercolor of 6 Montagu Street by Mary Whyte, 2024 CSOL Designer Showhouse Collaborative Artist

The Designer Showhouse showcases the talents of local designers and raises vital funds to support the Charleston Symphony Orchestra League’s mission. The CSOL plays a pivotal role in promoting and supporting the Charleston Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and its educational programs, ensuring that music remains an integral part of our community.

This year’s Designer Showhouse takes place at the John Rudolph Switzer House at 6 Montagu Street in historic downtown Charleston. The 1803 double house is one of several in the Harleston Village neighborhood to be lovingly restored by the current owner. Previously divided into apartments, it’s been returned to its original intent as a single-family home. The renovation included restoring the historic part of the house while adding a 3-story contemporary wing to the back. The grounds and gardens were also newly landscaped.

The event kicked off February 4^th with a “Blue Jeans and Blueprints Bare Boards” party that gave attendees a chance to see the home before it began its transformation and meet with designers, architects, builder, and landscapers. From March 13 to April 13, visitors can tour the home and experience the creativity and talent of 14 local interior designers. There is also be a popup shop for those looking to take some inspiration home. In addition to the opening night celebration on March 12, special events include an evening of champagne and songs, a St. Patrick’s Day garden party, a Gullah brunch, afternoon tea, and supper club. For more information and tickets, click here.

Disher, Hamrick & Myers has long been a champion of the arts and community initiatives. “We are honored to support the Charleston Symphony Orchestra League,” said Herbert Butler, REALTOR® at DHM. “Their work in promoting music education and appreciation in our community aligns with our own values of community engagement and support.” Broker-Associate Douglas Berlinsky adds, “It’s especially exciting this year to feature a historic home that is being converted from multi-family apartments back to its original purpose as a single-family residence. DHM is proud to support such initiatives within historic downtown Charleston.”

Enjoy an exclusive sneak peek into the beautifully-decorated home:

DHM Sponsors the 2024 CSOL Designer Showhouse

DHM invites you to join us at the 2024 CSOL Designer Showhouse as we champion the power of music to inspire and unite our city.

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Increase Your Property Value with Home Staging

Posted on January 30, 2024February 23, 2024 by Avery Edwards

Need to sell your home as quickly as possible and for the best price? Have you considered home staging? If not, you definitely should. With the proliferation of TV shows that highlight carefully staged homes, buyers’ expectations have increased. Homes that are staged sell faster than homes that aren’t staged. Why wait around for someone to see the potential in your home when you can reveal it through some simple staging methods?

WHY STAGING HELPS BUYERS

Many buyers have trouble visualizing a home the way it could be for their family. If your home has clutter and personal knickknacks and photos throughout, it may be difficult for the buyer to see the house as their future home. Removing excess furniture and giving each room a clear purpose can really make a difference. According to the National Association of Realtors® Home Staging Report, homeowners should always do the following before putting a home on the market:

Thoroughly clean the home.
Remove all clutter from the home.
Repair any aesthetic issues.
Remove any personal photos and memorabilia.
Make sure each room serves a purpose (i.e., a designated family area, eating area, guest room or master bedroom).
Be sure not to neglect the outside of your home: pressure wash; blow the roof, driveway and decks; maintain landscaping and add colorful plants; create an outdoor living space.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Your real estate agent can help determine what needs to be accomplished to show your home in the best light. Disher, Hamrick & Myers’ agents are experts in the Charleston real estate market and know what buyers are currently seeking. They also have eyes trained to see what you may not. DHM is even the first real estate agency in Charleston to offer in-house virtual staging.

CONSIDER THIS

Here’s a real life example of something you might not consider would affect your home’s salability: a homeowner is a big fan of a local college football team and showcased sports memorabilia throughout the home. That particular team has some pretty big local rivalries and even seeing that school’s color and logo might cause a visceral reaction in fans of the other team, subconsciously giving them a negative vision of the home. Although you might not like fans of a rival football team, you certainly wouldn’t exclude them from buying your home! Simply removing the memorabilia makes the home more welcoming to all and doesn’t cost a penny.

If you and your agent decide to stage your home, put your focus on the following rooms:

Living room
Kitchen
Primary bedroom and bath
Dining area

STAGING INCREASES HOME VALUE

According to the NAR report on home staging, 20% of Realtors® believe that staging a home garners a 1-5% price increase over similar homes that are not staged. 14% believe the price increase is closer to 6-10%, and some even more. The median cost of staging according to the NAR is $600. Think of it: in 2024, the median sales price in the greater Charleston real estate market is $531,728. That means a potential increase of $5317 -$53,172. That’s a minimum return of over 886% on your staging budget! And if your home is in downtown Charleston where the median sales price is over $2 million, your return is even greater. Plus, almost half of listing agents report staging decreases the time a home spends on the market.

DHM REAL ESTATE CAN HELP

At Disher, Hamrick & Myers in Charleston, we won’t leave you in the lurch when it comes to figuring out how to present your home. We know what buyers are looking for today and can guide you through the process with our real estate services. If you decide professional home staging is the right option for you, we can also refer you to a proven, reputable staging company. We’ll even help coordinate the staging process. For ideas on how to get started with staging, or to buy a home that works for you, take a look at some of our beautifully staged properties for sale.

For a checklist of things you should do on their own before listing your house for sale, download a FREE copy of our ebook “How to Get Your House Ready for Sale in 6 Easy Steps!”

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