West Columbia SC Real Estate Blog

West Columbia Agape Senior Employees Get Stuck for a Great Cause

August 25th, 2010 11:22 AM

West Columbia Agape Senior Employees Get Stuck for a Great Cause

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. ~Winston Churchill

According to the American Red Cross, one blood donation can save up to three lives. On Aug 24,2010, the employees, associates, and friends of Agape Senior teamed up to help replenish depleted blood supplies. The event took place on the West Columbia campus on Leaphart Road.

Agape Senior employees from the West Columbia campus came, along with other employees from across the Midlands. Employees from the Harbison campus in Irmo, the Kathwood campus in Forest Acres, and the Lexington campus gathered to give the gift of life. The volunteers rolled up their sleeves and within four hours had donated 44 units of blood. The total donation has the potential to save 132 lives.

Chuck Underhill-Lexington Administrator

Every person that donated seemed to have a different story for making the commitment to be there that day. Some donors had never given before. One donor had not donated in over fifteen years. It was truly an amazing team effort to meet and exceed the goal set for the event by the Red Cross.

Agape Senior is no stranger to supporting worthwhile causes. The company is committed to involvement in the local communities in which it has operations. Agape Senior has a fundamental philosophy to empower its employees to look for and become part of the solution for any problem. Read more about Agape Senior.

West Columbia South Carolina Assisted Living – Agape Senior West Columbia

Agape Senior Assisted Living of West Columbia provides senior-focused solutions. In working with seniors and their families, the dedicated staff works diligently to optimize quality of life by embracing individuality and preserving dignity – Call us 803-939-3000

Posted by Joe Nester on August 25th, 2010 11:22 AMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia GMM Insurance Specializes in Long Term Care Insurance

August 7th, 2010 12:06 AM

GMM Insurance can assist with virtually any insurance need, but our affiliation with Agapé Senior has led us to specialize in the field of long-term care insurance. Medicare does not pay for most long-term care services, so having a long-term care policy is the best way to ensure that you make all the decisions about your care and well-being later in life. Please watch our informative Long-Term Care Insurance video and then call us to talk to the professionals who know long-term care better than anybody else in the Midlands.

West Columbia SC Real Estate, Columbia SC – Joe Nester Realtor. EXIT Agape Real Estate Services is ready to serve your real estate needs in Lexington, West Columbia, Irmo, Forest Acres, and Columbia South Carolina. Our experienced agents have all the right tools to properly market your listing or to search for your perfect new home. We strive to exceed your expectations on every transaction. (803) 730-7269 or (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on August 7th, 2010 12:06 AMPost a Comment (0)

149 Athens School Rd Gaston SC Home and Land For Sale

August 5th, 2010 9:11 AM

This spacious brick home on 8 acres offers lots of living space on three different levels. The main floor boasts a large family room with fireplace, an eat-in kitchen with plenty of cabinets and countertops, two bedrooms with ample closet space, a full bath and one half bath, and formal living room with fireplace. The upstairs contains two bedrooms and a half bath, while the full, walk-out basement has a fireplace and lots of room for workshop or storage. An additional two acres and out-building could convey.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

West Columbia SC Real Estate - Properties for Sale in West Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as West Columbia Startup Homes, West Columbia Median Homes, West Columbia Upscale Homes, West Columbia Luxury Homes, and West Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in West Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists. (803) 454-3504

West Columbia SC Startup Homes [under $125K]

West Columbia SC Median Homes [$125K- $225K]

West Columbia SC Upscale Homes [$225K - $450K]

West Columbia SC Luxury Homes [over $450K]

West Columbia SC Homesites and Land for Sale

Agape Village West Columbia SC Homes for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on August 5th, 2010 9:11 AMPost a Comment (0)

Rock Hill SC Agape Hospice Keeps Dream Alive

July 23rd, 2010 10:20 PM

In a small, dingy, subsidized apartment Ben Jacobs, an eighty year old man sat in a worn recliner. It took so much effort for him to stand and move from his chair that it was easier for him to sit and stare at the blank wall. The days passed slowly, with little or no human contact. Ben could feel himself getting weaker as day turned to night and back to day. He would drift in and out of sleep and dream of youthful days spent running through peach groves. It was hard for him to believe that he had once moved with so much energy and freedom. He had never had much in his life, and had less now. Any hope for a better future had long ago left his consciousness. Ben knew that he would probably die alone in his room.

Sometimes in life a crisis can be a catalyst for good. Ben’s declining condition caused him to be admitted to the local Rock Hill hospital in March of 2010. After observations and tests, the hospital quickly determined there was nothing they could do for him. Ben was discharged to Agapé Senior’s rehabilitation and nursing facility.

Twenty-five years earlier a Methodist minister was leading a small church near Smoaks, South Carolina. The pastor tried to help one elderly couple deal with the husband’s growing dementia condition. The sub-standard care that the husband received for his misunderstood condition made an impression on the young pastor. The pastor asked himself the question “Is there a better way?”

Today that minister, Scott Middleton, is the CEO of one of South Carolina’s largest providers of senior care services in the state. The philosophy of looking for better ways to serve the senior population is vital part of the Agapé Senior culture.

Ben was about to experience how that simple philosophy would change the course of his remaining life. Ben’s condition was diagnosed as terminal, and he was placed in Agapé Hospice of Rock Hill. After two weeks, Ben had regained enough strength to return home. The hospice diagnosis meant that a hospice nurse could visit Ben three days a week.

Ben’s Agapé Hospice nurse started making her visits immediately after he was discharged. The nurse was appalled by the condition of Ben’s roach-infested apartment, and wondered if there was anything that could be done to improve his situation.

The strength of the continuum of care model that Agapé Senior uses throughout the state allows for open lines of communication between each provider associated with the patient. The hospice nurse saw Ben’s situation and automatically started asking the question “Is there a better way?” She talked with several colleagues as well as the nursing home administrator, the assisted living administrator, and the Agapé Hospice social workers.

Two weeks later the answer came while attending a seminar on VA benefits. The nurse was listening to the presenter speak about the different ways that veterans could qualify for assistance. Suddenly she realized that she might have the solution for Ben. She recalled a story that Ben had shared with her on one of her visits. The story involved a combat situation that Ben had experienced when he was in his twenties.

Excited and full of hope, the nurse took the new information and started making inquiries. On her next visit with Ben, she questioned him thoroughly about his service in the military. Ben was fuzzy on the exact years, but it was pretty apparent that he had seen combat in World War ll. The nurse was able to get the precise information from the veteran affairs office later that week.

The news was fantastic! Ben qualified for an Aid and Attendance benefit that would allow him to move out of his dreadful apartment and into Agapé Senior’s brand new assisted living facility. Ben now lives in a clean and comfortable room. Ben enjoys three meals a day in a beautiful dining room, where he has the opportunity to socialize with the other residents and staff.

Ben’s terminal diagnosis has not changed, but his outlook for the remainder of his life has drastically improved. The dedicated staff at Agapé Senior of Rock Hill was inspired to go the extra mile because of the dream of a minister who asked the question “Is there a better way?”

Posted by Joe Nester on July 23rd, 2010 10:20 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia Real Estate for Sale The Gates at Williams Brice

July 20th, 2010 11:16 PM

Enjoy the splendid view of Williams Brice stadium and the surrounding area. This condo has a great vantage point for all of the game day action. The spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is perfect for entertaining guests or your best clients. The kitchen with its granite counters, large island and open layout will make preparing game day meals a snap. The master bath features double vanity, garden tub, and plenty of room for all your things. The guest bedroom, and guest bath, is on the opposite side of living space from master for maximum privacy. The lush landscaping and flowering plants in the common area court yard will remind you of a resort setting. Relax pool side while watching the game on large flat screen TVs, while cooking some steaks on one of the stainless grills. Cool off with a dip in the pool or soak your tired muscles in the Jacuzzi. Do not miss the chance to own this special property. Call today to arrange your personal showing. Or take virtual tour now.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes
[under $125K]

Columbia Median Homes
[$125K - $250K]

Columbia Upscale Homes
[$250K - $550K]

Columbia Luxury Homes
[$550K - $1M]

Columbia Million $ Homes
[over $1M]

Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on July 20th, 2010 11:16 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Real Estate For Sale 2541 Chatsworth Windsor Lake

July 20th, 2010 4:25 PM

This sharp all brick ranch in Windsor Lake is ready to move in. The large shady lot, attached carport, and cement patio are some of the exterior features of the home. The interior features gorgeous exposed hardwoods in formal living room and dining room. Kitchen has large bright eat-in area, built in pantry closet, and ample kitchen cabinets. The knotty pine family room would make a great place to watch the big game or take a Sunday afternoon nap. The three large bedrooms feature a private bath in mater and a shared guest bath in hall. The back yard has landscaped natural areas that will keep mowing to a minimum. Call today to see this special home. Take virtual tour of home now.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on July 20th, 2010 4:25 PMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia Home For Sale 812 Jefferson

July 15th, 2010 11:06 PM

Well maintained brick ranch on Quiet Street in West Columbia. Front porch overlooks mature plantings and shady lot. Back yard has raised cement patio, chain link fence, and plenty of room to garden, build a pool, or just relax. The Large formal living / dining room combination has lots of windows for plenty of natural light. Gleaming hardwoods lie under carpet.

There is a large den, family room just off kitchen with sliding doors to back yard. Kitchen has stainless steel sink, cook-top stove, and ample cabinets for storage. Side door leads to carport. All three bedrooms have exposed hardwood floors. Master bedroom has walk-in-closet. Guest bath and master bath have been completely renovated to include glass block privacy window, new floors, new glass shower in master, new toilets, and vanities. This home is move-in ready. Sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee while enjoying the view of your back yard. Call today to schedule a tour of this home. Or take virtual tour now.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on July 15th, 2010 11:06 PMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia Home for Sale 1001 Brookwood Circle

June 29th, 2010 5:09 PM

Great brick ranch home on quiet street in Brookwood subdivision. New roof installed June 2010. HVAC 2 years old. Hardwood floors refinished throughout. Both bathrooms have new floors, and toilets. New front storm door. Home has large yard with huge workshop/storage building. Attached garage, large eat-in kitchen.

Call today to see this affordable home conveniently located just off of Airport Blvd.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on June 29th, 2010 5:09 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Patio Home for Sale in Senior Adult Community Agape Village

June 27th, 2010 3:50 AM

Sharp two bedroom two bath patio home in age restricted Agape Village. Enjoy a virtually maintenance free environment at a reasonable price. Our all inclusive regime will simplify your life and give you more time to do the things you love. Beautiful community center with work out equipment, large meeting room with kitchen facilities for personal use or group functions. Sprinkler system, walk in closet in master, low curb shower, and gas fireplace are just a few of the amenities that make these homes special. Call today to arrange a tour.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes
[under $125K]

Columbia Median Homes
[$125K - $250K]

Columbia Upscale Homes
[$250K - $550K]

Columbia Luxury Homes
[$550K - $1M]

Columbia Million $ Homes
[over $1M]

Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale
Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on June 27th, 2010 3:50 AMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Real Estate New Listing 6504 Dorchester

June 23rd, 2010 9:58 PM

Charming brick home from the 1940's on quiet corner lot in Denny Terrace sub-division. Well maintained and move in ready. Home has plenty of character from the transom windows, vintage light fixtures, and glass door knobs. Bathroom features classic style ceramic floor tile. Home also features refinished hardwoods throughout. The gleaming hardwoods add warmth and style to every room. Gather your guests around the wood burning fireplace and have a cup of cheer on a cold December day. Or read a book on this enclosed sun porch while enjoying nature and the mature plantings throughout the yard. Brick siding with vinyl wrapped overhang will leave you plenty of time to pursue other interests. No need to paint. Large vintage country kitchen has original sink and cabinets. Enjoy the old style amenities or update to your tastes. You will love everything about this well constructed home. Arched openings between rooms are another example of the character found throughout. Call today for your personal tour of this fantastic home.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes
[under $125K]

Columbia Median Homes
[$125K - $250K]

Columbia Upscale Homes
[$250K - $550K]

Columbia Luxury Homes
[$550K - $1M]

Columbia Million $ Homes
[over $1M]

Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale
Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on June 23rd, 2010 9:58 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia Real Estate Training Gives Internet Edge to Exit Agents

June 22nd, 2010 4:24 PM

In the early morning blackness of the pre-dawn, a sedan maneuvers through the empty streets of Wilmington, North Carolina. The man behind the wheel has mentally prepared himself for a long day. He guides his car onto the highway toward his destination in Columbia, SC. The two hundred plus mile trip to Columbia will take approximately three hours.

Key Yessaad, an internet strategist, is a driven man. His knowledge of the inner workings of the internet is surpassed only by his passion to share that information in a meaningful, measureable way. Key, a former professor of mathematics is uniquely equipped to teach lay people about the intricacies of effective internet strategy.

At 7:30 a.m. Key arrives at the training center for Exit Realty in West Columbia. For the next hour he is consumed with getting a wide array of wires, cables, and gadgets connected for his presentation. Wires are duct-taped to the floor, projectors and monitors are tested, sound is checked, programs and videos pre-loaded, internet is brought up, and the room is set for the Exit agents and brokers who will attend.

By 8:45 when the first agents begin to arrive, Key has already been working for over four hours. There is music pulsing from speakers while video flashes across the large projector screen and plasma monitor. The chatter among the agents combined with the music videos creates an upbeat atmosphere.

At 9:30 Key eases into the first part of the training. He spends several minutes on getting the students into the right frame of mind. He asks them to be completely present in the room. The students will need to be able to wrap their minds around the concepts. Key also wants them to know what they can expect to take away at the end of the day.

The challenge for Key is that there are 32 agents and brokers in the room. The knowledge base of the group about internet strategy runs the gambit from zero to somewhat informed. Key knows that his instruction will need to be presented so that each person will understand at his/her own level. The important thing will be the ability of the agent to implement the ideas.

With the precision of a skilled physician Key quickly begins to dissect the room with a series of direct questions and one-on-one interaction with several agents. He can sense the apprehension of some of the agents and makes it a point to assure them that they will not need to be technically inclined to benefit from the training.

The general concepts of creating internet visibility are covered in the first part of the course. Key makes sure the agents have a clear understanding of why. Once they understand the why, the critical steps involved in implementation will make sense.

The energy and excitement generated from Key’s teaching style is working its magic. The room’s occupants are in synch with where he is leading them. The earlier concepts start to build momentum as the students realize the potential power of the strategy. Each point is clearly demonstrated with real examples from the internet.

A well-timed question from a new agent about an important concept gives Key the perfect opportunity for breakthrough understanding. He pounces on the opportunity and becomes wildly animated. It is like someone hit a fast forward switch.

Key starts moving rapidly between several agents. Each time he stops, a rapid fire question is asked directly to that agent. After a very slight pause he tells the agent the right answer and has him/her say it. He quickly repeats the action with another agent. After a third time using the same technique, Key swoops in on the person with the original question. Key asks the original question back to the agent. The agent is able to answer his own question now. Key reacts with a very loud “YESSSSSSSS” and leaps into the air. The grand prize of understanding has been achieved.

The motion, excitement, and technique are so powerful that it has everyone in the class hypnotized by the building drama. The class is greatly relieved when the agent is able to provide the right answer. By building the tension and uncertainty about the answer to the question, Key was able to drag the entire class to the finish line together.

By 3:00 p.m. Key has been expending incredible amounts of energy for over 11 hours. He knows from experience that it is critical for the agents to put the ideas being presented into practice immediately after the training is completed. He also understands that many of the agents will not follow through.

The concepts have been understood, the tools to implement have been identified, and an action plan has been outlined. The agents that have the perseverance to act will be guaranteed success within the realm of internet visibility.

Much like a great musician or performer; Key has given completely of himself. His ability to teach relatively complex concepts effectively to non-technical people is a testimony to his skills as an instructor. The students leaving the training have the ability to change their own destiny. No one could ask for anything more.

Joe Nester is the broker/owner of Exit Agape Real Estate Services in West Columbia, South Carolina. Joe, an avid writer, has written over 50 blogs on varying topics about real estate. He is also contributing writer for Examiner.com and Hubpages.com

Joe is a firm believer in Key’s philosophy that it is important for businesses and individuals to tell their stories. Internet visibility with good content is a great way to build trust with potential clients.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes
[under $125K]

Columbia Median Homes
[$125K - $250K]

Columbia Upscale Homes
[$250K - $550K]

Columbia Luxury Homes
[$550K - $1M]

Columbia Million $ Homes
[over $1M]

Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale
Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on June 22nd, 2010 4:24 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Real Estate Benefit

June 7th, 2010 4:36 PM

Real Estate Benefit Program Helps Another Agape Senior Employee

On Tuesday, June 1st, Lyndsey Plyler became the second person to take advantage of the real estate benefit program that is available to all Agape Senior employees. The program was designed to help the employee navigate through the home buying or selling process by providing professional guidance for each step along the way.

Lyndsey started her journey to become a homeowner with one simple email to the EXIT Agape Real Estate Services office about five weeks ago. The email said, "I need help." This provided the team with a perfect opportunity to turn that simple request into a success story. Most Agape Senior employees spend every hour of every day helping our precious senior adults. The job is demanding and can be all consuming. To help and support the dedicated employees that provide that exceptional care is a privilege.

The benefit program provides experts in the professional services of real estate, insurance, legal, and finance. This team approach improves the process by providing clear channels of communication, quicker response time to problems, and, ultimately, a better experience for the client. The program also provides discounts and rebates that will save the employee over $1000.00 on a medium priced home.

The real estate benefits team, EXIT Agape Realty (real estate), Harrell & Martin (legal), GMM (insurance), and Crescent Moon Mortgage (finance) would like to congratulate Lyndsey on her new home and wish her great things for the future.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on June 7th, 2010 4:36 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Employee Real Estate Benefit Program

May 26th, 2010 12:31 AM

The road to achieving the American dream is often paved with hard work, knowledge, and professional guidance. Fortunately for Agape Senior employees a team of professionals has been assembled to help with that process.

The Legacy Care Real Estate Benefit program was introduced as an employee benefit several months ago. Legacy Care allows an Agape Senior employee the choice to use preferred providers in all or some of the professional services required to purchase, sell or refinance a home. The program includes service fee discounts and cash back rebates to the employee that is a principal in a real estate transaction.

We are proud to announce our first Legacy Care client, Sharon Davis, closed on her new home on Thursday, May 20. Sharon is a great example of today’s modern well-informed consumer in the housing market. Sharon took advantage of a down payment assistance program that is being offered by Richland County. A requirement of the program is that the recipient attends classes that teach the home buyer the ropes of purchasing a first home.

Sharon was now armed with the information from her classes and she took the next step by putting the Legacy Care team to work for her. Legacy Care mortgage specialist Bill Oliver, worked with Sharon to pre-qualify her for a mortgage. Being pre-qualified before looking for a home is a smart way to narrow your searches to the homes in your price range. It also provides for a much stronger offer to the seller when submitting a contract with a pre-approval letter from a lender.

Catherine Thornton a certified first-time buyer agent with Exit Agape, then began working with Sharon to find her the perfect home. The services of a good buyer’s agent are invaluable during this part of the process. The agent will evaluate potential properties for current value, submit and negotiate the purchase contract, coordinate the inspections, and negotiate the repairs from the inspections.

Once the purchase contract is accepted by all parties, it is then sent to our preferred real estate attorney, Jeremy Martin. Jeremy has been working with Exit Agape for over two years and was involved in the majority of Agape Village closings. Jeremy performs all of the necessary legal work to ensure the property is titled properly and that there are no liens or claims against the property. He also performs the closing, ensuring all documents are properly signed and recorded.

Communication between all the parties involved in getting a real estate transaction to closing is crucial. We believe that our team approach in providing professional services is a real advantage to the employee. It was gratifying to see how excited Sharon was on the day of closing at our office in West Columbia. The entire Legacy Care team would like to thank Sharon for giving us the opportunity to help.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Posted by Joe Nester on May 26th, 2010 12:31 AMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia Land for Investment Opportunity

May 24th, 2010 11:19 AM

Nice 4.2 Acres wooded parcel close in. Large brick home and out buldings included. This property would make a great investment. House and two mobile homes already on property. Also barn outbuilding to the rear of property. Call today for more information.

Posted by Joe Nester on May 24th, 2010 11:19 AMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Real Estate Nightmare or Nirvanna

May 16th, 2010 6:05 PM

When is the last time you had a real estate closing that was on schedule? Do you ever get a response from a bank in a timely manner on a short sale? When your buyer clients are getting down payment assistance, tax credits, and seller paid closing costs, do they think they should be getting a better deal? Do your seller clients believe there property is unique and should not be affected by a down market? Do you hold your breath every time an appraisal is ordered for a property under contract? Do you wonder how the new HUD is easier to understand? Do you find it interesting that third party addendum on foreclosures are often longer than the sales contract and usually conflict with it? Isn’t it funny that a lot of people think that you can work for free?

If you are about ready to throw yourself off a tall skyscraper, hold on. Think about the client that told you that they would never have been able to get through the sale of their property without your help. Remember the couple that just moved to your area and said that you really saved the day finding the perfect home in the perfect neighborhood. Can you remember the feeling of accomplishment when you helped a first time buyer realize the American dream? What about the satisfaction of resolving a housing problem for a senior client?

Fortunately, or unfortunately the nature of the beast seems to be incredible highs and incredible lows. Staying professional and focusing on the positive can be a good remedy for coping in today’s market.

Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale

Columbia Startup Homes
[under $125K]

Columbia Median Homes
[$125K - $250K]

Columbia Upscale Homes
[$250K - $550K]

Columbia Luxury Homes
[$550K - $1M]

Columbia Million $ Homes
[over $1M]

Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale
Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Homes for Sale in Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as Columbia Startup Homes, Columbia Median Homes, Columbia Upscale Homes, Columbia Luxury Homes, Columbia Million Dollar Homes, and Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists.
Contact the Team that understands Columbia SC (803) 454-3504.

Posted by Joe Nester on May 16th, 2010 6:05 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Downsizing Advice for Seniors

April 29th, 2010 9:44 PM

A lot has changed in real estate in the last 50 years. For the senior client that has been in the same house for all of those years the thought of selling and moving can be overwhelming. A home is more than just a house; there are precious memories of family, friends, special occasions and more. There is an immense amount of stuff that can accumulate in a home that has been lived in for fifty years. It is very difficult for most people to sort through all of that accumulation and know what to keep and what to donate or put in the trash.

Here are 5 ideas that could help if you are contemplating selling your home in order to downsize into a more manageable space.

1. Talk to a realtor that has experience working with senior clients. A good realtor will offer valuable advice about the best way to present your home to a new generation of buyers. He/She should also walk you through what to expect while your home is listed, and everything that is involved in the process from purchase offer to the closing table.

2. Consider hiring a company that specializes in helping people downsize. It is not practical or wise to think you will be able to bring all of your possessions into your new home. Moving is the perfect opportunity to weed out the clutter from the jewels. There are also some innovative ways to save your memories without keeping the actual item associated with the memory.

3. Talk to someone that has already gone through the process. It is helpful to hear other people talk about how they solved and dealt with the same issues you are currently facing. You may feel more confident that you are on the right track.

4. Enlist the help of your family if possible. There are probably a lot of items in your home that belong to your grown kids. Ask them to go through the items and take the things that they want. They should make the decision whether it is something they want to save or not.

5. This can be a very stressful time. Try to keep a positive attitude. Nobody likes change, but usually with change comes new opportunities. Think about the advantages of downsizing and the reason you wanted to do it in the first place.

There are a lot of different housing options available to a senior that would like to downsize. Your realtor should be able to find the type of community that will best suit your new life style.

West Columbia SC Real Estate for Sale - Properties for Sale in West Columbia South Carolina. We also provide you with Advanced Market Segments such as West Columbia Startup Homes, West Columbia Median Homes, West Columbia Upscale Homes, West Columbia Luxury Homes, and West Columbia Homesites and Land for Sale in West Columbia SC. Surrounding Towns included are West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, Lexington, Lexington County, Cayce, Gaston, Swansea as well as niche communities: Agape Village, Charwood, Churchill Heights, Edenwood, Forest Acres, Moss Creek, Quail Hollow, Saluda Gardens, Saluda River Club, Saluda Terrace, Shadblow, The Avenues, and Westover Acres. Exit Agapé Real Estate Services is your West Columbia SC and South Carolina Senior Real Estate Specialists. (803) 454-3504

Posted by Joe Nester on April 29th, 2010 9:44 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Reverse Mortgage for Purchase Could be Good Solution for a Senior Home Owner

April 25th, 2010 12:23 PM

Most people today know something about a traditional reverse mortgage but have never heard of a reverse mortgage for purchase. This innovative product could be in certain situations a good solution for a senior that would like to downsize or do a parallel move.

The reverse mortgage for purchase allows a senior to purchase a primary residence by putting a certain percentage of the sales price as a down payment, usually between 40 and 50 percent, and having the reverse mortgage for purchase pay off the balance.

The advantage of this type of mortgage is that it could allow the senior to get into a new property without sinking all of the equity from the old home into the deal. Once they closed on the new home it would be the same as a traditional reverse mortgage. There would be no house payment as long as they lived in the home. And each month the interest would accrue against the equity.

Below are some guidelines that apply to a reverse mortgage for purchase.

1. Who is eligible – everyone in the home must be 62 or older

2. What is income requirement – No income requirement

3. What is min. credit score – Credit Reports are not required

4. You can use the Reverse Mortgage to PURCHASE a home

5. NO PAYMENTS required

6. Everyone must go thru Counseling for the Reverse Mortgage first

As with any financial decision you should always get the advice of a professional. In addition to using a professional that is familiar with this type of mortgage, the reverse mortgage also requires a counseling session for the principals involved in the transaction.

Bill Oliver with Crescent Moon Mortgage in Columbia is a broker that is familiar with the reverse mortgage for purchase. You can contact Bill through his web-site.

You can also get more information about reverse mortgages in general by visiting the US Dept of Housing and Urban Development site.

Posted by Joe Nester on April 25th, 2010 12:23 PMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia Exit Agape Real Estate Supports Rhythm on the River

April 20th, 2010 5:24 PM

Close your eyes and imagine the golden light at sunset. You can hear the children playing in the grass that surrounds the amphitheater. You feel a gentle breeze from the Congaree River as the water silently glides downstream. You see the Gervais Street Bridge with its perfectly symmetrical arches stretching across the river to downtown Columbia. The downtown glass and steel buildings are shimmering from the reflected light of the setting sun. The music starts and seems to be in perfect harmony with the people and surroundings.

Open your eyes. You are attending the popular Rhythm on the River concert series put on by the West Metro Chamber of Commerce. The ten-week series is sponsored by local businesses in Lexington County and is free to the public. Each year the concert series features a wide variety of music that will appeal to every taste. The popularity of the series has grown each year, along with the musical talent.

EXIT Agape Real Estate Services in West Columbia is proud to be a weekend sponsor for the popular concert series for the third year in a row. Agape Senior is also returning as a presenting sponsor for the whole series. This event is perfect for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors, socialize with friends and hear some very talented musicians in a relaxed atmosphere.

For more information on the series and a complete schedule of bands and sponsors, visit Rhythm on the River.

If you were ever told by your parents that the best things in life are free, you can bet that in this case they were right.

Posted by Joe Nester on April 20th, 2010 5:24 PMPost a Comment (0)

West Columbia Real Estate Can Potential Clients Find You Today?

April 18th, 2010 8:14 PM

Sometimes enlightenment can be swift and unexpected like a sudden breeze on a perfectly calm day. For a brief moment in time you experience perfect understanding with brilliant clarity. If you are a visionary these moments allow you to see the future.

This kind of understanding is usually only possible if there is a foundation of knowledge that has been acquired over time. The trainer helps to build the foundation that ultimately will allow the student to experience the deeper insight.

For the past year Key Yessaad has been building a foundation of knowledge about internet strategy for the agents and brokers of Exit Realty in the Midlands of South Carolina, Key, one of the premier internet strategists in the country, is mercenary about providing training that can lead to an agent’s verifiable success on the internet.

On April 15, 2010 Key rolled out his new workshop-style, advanced blogging class for over 20 brokers and agents at Agape Village in West Columbia. I had arranged to meet with Key after the training to discuss some new web-site and blog ideas upon which I was working.

Later that evening, at an outdoor table of a local restaurant, we chatted about the day’s activities. We had no idea that we were about to witness a small action by our waiter that is having a profound impact on real estate and the real estate agent.

Our waiter, Cale, who looked to be in his early twenties, was friendly and intelligent. Each time he would come to our table we would engage him in conversation to learn more about him. Cale turned out to be a recent graduate of USC in Columbia and had majored in biology. His desire was to complete his PhD. Key encouraged him to complete it as soon as possible.

A short while later Cale returned to our table to check on us, and he began to inquire about what we did professionally. Key explained that he trained real estate agents to compete effectively on-line and that he had completed training in West Columbia earlier in the day. I told Cale that Key was an expert on creating Google visibility. “In fact”, I said, “You can just Google web trainer with no location and he will probably be in first position on page one.”

Instantly Cale reached into his pocket and pulled out his smart phone with the swiftness of a gun-slinger out of the Old West. After several short taps on the screen of the phone, Cale looked up at us. I could tell by his expression that he was impressed. Cale said, “I have never met anyone famous before.”

What we had just witnessed was significant. Key had just trained on that exact concept earlier in the day. An episode of the hit comedy “How I Met Your Mother” titled “Lorenzo Von Matterhorn” was used to illustrate the point to the class. Instant verification of an agent’s credibility and visibility is not only possible but happening everyday. I had just been afforded a glimpse into the future of real estate; I was glad that I had the foundation training to recognize the importance of what our waiter had just done.

Posted by Joe Nester on April 18th, 2010 8:14 PMPost a Comment (0)

Columbia SC Palmetto Trail Adventure

April 8th, 2010 9:15 PM

Life is strange. It seems that whenever you learn something new or read about a particular event or experience, it has a way of working its way into your own reality. The latest example of this phenomenon for me happened when I finished reading A Walk in the Woods’ by Bill Bryson. The book was a hilarious account of the author’s attempt to walk the Appalachian Trail. I was very intrigued by the fact that Mr. Bryson just decided one day that he was going to attempt such an ambitious hike and that for the most part he carried through with the plan.

About two weeks after finishing the book I was having a conversation with Mike, the minister of my church. He was telling me about a hike he had completed recently. Mike said he had hiked a 6.5 mile section of the Palmetto Trail from Peak, SC, to Pomaria, SC; I had a vague recollection of reading something years earlier about a trail that stretched across the state of South Carolina. Immediately the wheels started spinning in my head. I could be the Bill Bryson of the Palmetto Trail. I could walk each section and then recount my adventures to my adoring fans: the Today Show, Jay Leno, maybe even PBS.

The next day I was on Google getting all of the pertinent information to start my adventure. I found it very interesting that one of the sections of the trail actually crosses over the grounds of the State Capitol in Columbia where I reside.Mike had mentioned that the section he hiked did not have any real scenic vistas since it went through mostly bottom land. I was not sure what bottom land was, but it sounded okay for my first attempt at the trail.

Not being a person that likes to go into remote areas by myself, I had to rally the troops on the home front. I have been known to get lost in a subdivision after making two turns and then spending the next 30 minutes trying to get back out. I needed someone with me that could get us back out alive. My almost fifteen-year-old son and my ever skeptical wife were likely suspects. I really had to sell the adventure side of the hike and then throw in the educational element for good measure.

My son, Drew, had the brilliant plan to share our adventure with one of his high school buddies. This was perfect: another kid violently torn from his PS3 and forced to walk in the wilderness. How could I resist?

The morning of the hike was a gorgeous spring day with the temp around 58 degrees. The forecast was calling for the low 90s by the afternoon. Only in South Carolina can it go from 58 to 90 in three hours. The trip to the trail head was uneventful except for my attempt to turn east from the main highway instead of the clearly marked west on the map and the big green sign that pointed to Pomaria the other direction. With disaster narrowly avoided the adventure continued.

We arrived at the first trail head, which was a small parking lot next to a trestle bridge that spanned the Broad River. This was starting to get exciting. The old iron bridge formed part of the trail. I looked at my companions to try and gauge their excitement. Let’s just say it was getting exciting for me. We left one car and continued the trip to the second trail head. This turned out to be a grass parking lot behind Wilson’s Grocery, bait, beer, gas, and stuff store.

After reading a brief history of the town, and about the rail line that formed the trail on the information board we finally started our hike. There was nothing but nature for the next 6.5 miles. I don’t know if you have ever walked on a railroad bed that has been converted to a trail before, but we quickly found that the gravel used for the bed made for a challenging walk. The trail itself was perfectly flat. I marveled at the fact that no matter what the land was doing beside the trail, the actual trail was always perfectly flat. I tried to imagine designing the perfect shoe that would adjust to the infinite number of angles my foot would contort to on each step in the gravel.

Certain sections of the trail had more dirt and grass built up, and the gravel was more embedded in the soil. These were welcome sections along with the smooth boards that spanned the 13 or so trestles along the trail. It was easy to imagine an old steam engine in the 1800s puffing and hissing along the narrow corridor. I couldn’t help wondering about the men that actually built the line. I could almost hear them say after the track crossed the same river for the third time, “Really, do you think this is the best route?”

We did not encounter another soul on the trail, although there was one other vehicle parked in the grassy lot where we started. I proudly informed my son and his friend Hunter, that they were probably now in a very elite minority for having hiked this trail. I don’t believe I heard any response from this proclamation.

We did encounter some wildlife along the trail. A large bird that I quickly identified as a Turkey Hawk flew across the trail, and I was told in unison that there was no such species. We also had some quail half scare us to death as several took off just inches from where we were walking. I have heard helicopters take off with less noise.

All in all I was pleased with the adventure. It took us approximately 2 ½ hours to complete the hike. All of the surrounding woods and grass lands were in full bloom, and the brilliant colors of the wisteria against the green backdrop were beautiful.

I had noticed a small diner on our way into the town of Pomaria earlier and I suggested we reward our accomplishment with a cheeseburger. This time I got a reaction from the teenagers.

We arrived at the M&N Café and ordered cheeseburger baskets and cold sodas. The food was delicious after the long hike; the French fries were especially crisp and fresh. The M&N is a family-run restaurant. Two of the owner’s daughters were running the place the day we stopped. The friendly service combined with good old American food is worth the stop.

After proudly announcing to our server that we had just completed the trail, she said we were only the second group that she had ever met that hiked it. I quickly looked across at my son to see if he had grasped the significance of that statement. I got the universal eye roll that told me all was well with the world.

Posted by Joe Nester on April 8th, 2010 9:15 PMPost a Comment (0)