The Grand Strand is growing; in fact Horry County SC is one of the top 100 fastest growing counties in the nation.  Between 2000 and 2009, Horry County grew 34.2 percent. The city of Myrtle Beach itself grew 40.5 percent. Now more than ever is a great time to join the crowd and move to the beach. Why such growth in these areas in what is called a bad economy? Well, South Carolina offers a lot of incentives for retirees they have some of the best programs for retirees buying real estate and also low taxes. Plus, let’s not forget where else would you want to retire but in a warm climate with a golden mile of wonderful ocean.

                Now is the time to join the crowd. In the first half of 2010 home sales rose 32 percent and condo sales rose 38 percent.  This is in part due to low home and condo prices brought on by their being a number of foreclosures and short sales on the market. Now is definitely the time to come down and explore the market and find a deal on your dream home, second home, retirement home,  or investment property.

                Myrtle Beach will always be a wonderful place to live and vacation. Now more than ever is the time to have your place at the beach.

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On Tuesday, September 8th a record number of foreclosed properties went under the auction block at the Horry county courthouse. Over 420 proprieties were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Of these properties a record 257 were sold. Buyers now more than ever are looking for a great buy and are becoming more and more aware of different options such as foreclosure auctions and short sales. With a ton of competition on the market, pricing your home right is now more important than ever. :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

A short sale allows the homeowner to sell their home for less than the total amount due when a hardship is proven. It will show up on the owners credit report as paid in full for lower than the amount owed, a home can go into a short sales also if the owner, owes more than the current worth of the home. It is the last step before the house goes into foreclosure. Today’s market is filled with great deals and people looking to get out of bad situations. Short sales currently make up 15% of the housing market. This Is not a number to be ignored by sellers or buyers. These properties sell for 15-20% less than non distressed properties. Buyers should not be afraid to look at a property under a short sale, investors are not the only ones jumping on short sales in fact 45% of short sales are made by first time home buyers. However if you do get involved in a short sale, you may get a great deal and the home of your dreams but be prepared to play the waiting game it can take 2-3 months to for an offer to receive an answer.

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