Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island Considering Paid Parking for Visitors

Posted on December 11, 2014 by Donnie Whitaker

si-lighthouse.jpgIn a recent town hall meeting the Sullivan’s Island town council decided unanimously on a managed parking plan for the island.  This comes in light of a recent article in the Post and Courier about the Isle of Palms doing the same.

The Isle of Palms is considering a plan that would require a parking pass per car that would set a cap on the number of visitors to the island each day.  Passes could be purchased online,  for anywhere from a day, to week, or longer.  At the time this is just a proposal, but if put in to place, it will force the town of Sullivan’s Island to do the same, to avoid many of those who would likely visit the Isle of Palms to go to Sullivan’s Island instead, therefore overcrowding the island.

An article today’s Island Eye News goes on to say although Sullivan’s Island voted unanimously for a managed parking plan, it will likely be a wait and see approach.  Going forward with such a plan could be a year away but has the support of the town so will be able to be implemented quickly if need be.  There plan is similar but not identical to that of the Isle of Palms, in that you will go on-line to register, but not physically receive a ticket. Handheld scanners will be able to scan each license plate to determined each visitor has paid and registered to park.

IOP Breech InletWhat is my opinion?  While I am not sure this is the answer, or best way to go about it, something does need to be done.  There is no debating the islands are congested in the summer months and traffic at times is enough to make anyone want to pull their hair out. I have worked on the Isle of Palms for 14 years and have personally seen an increase of traffic onto the island each summer.  I have waited for an hour or longer to get onto the beach from Mt. Pleasant, while sitting in slow, congested traffic.  Lanes were recently added to the Isle of Palms connector on the Mt. Pleasant side, but this seems to have not done much.  But what is the answer?   Should Mt. Pleasant residents have to pay to enjoy a public beach?  After all,  Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island residents most likely spend time eating, shopping, etc. in Mt. Pleasant every day.  To me, the thought of having to go on-line and pay to enjoy the beach, seems a little much.  But maybe it’s worth it, maybe I will see it differently when I zoom to the beach at noon on Saturday.

I would like to know your opinion?

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Shipwatch makes it’s return in Wild Dunes

Posted on September 29, 2014 by Donnie Whitaker

ShipwatchShipwatch in Wild Dunes is back!   After months of waiting, buildings C and D are complete and owners who were waiting the completion to sale are now putting their units on the market.  The long wait has without doubt built up demand creating the possibility for multiple offers on the units as they hit the market.  While there is still pending litigation between the current owners and a previous contractor, all assessments have been paid (ask to be 100% sure) and those buying will have a practically brand new, up to code, exterior to their building.

So, what is currently for sale, and what are the price points?  There are currently 5 units for sale (and growing) with asking prices ranging from $550,000 to $849,000.   Most of the units are priced according to view, location, and interior quality of the unit.

Shipwatch Villas Listed for Sale: 

1425542 – Details: 7600 PALMETTO DR, #419 C, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $550,000 – Sold –  This penthouse unit is priced significantly lower than the others due to the need for renovations.  With that said, it is priced right, and for someone who likes to renovate, its a deal.

1422048 – Details: 429 SHIPWATCH VILLA, #429D, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $799,000 – Penthouse unit with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.

1422385 – Details: 313 SHIPWATCH VILLA, #313C, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $849,000 – Renovated Unit with high-end appliances and other luxuries throughout.

1425000 – Details: 115 SHIPWATCH VILLA, #C, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $615,000 – Beautiful unit just steps from the beach.

1425771 – Details: 223 SHIPWATCH VILLA, #223 D, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $779,000 – Completely renovated 3 bedroom with an excellent rental history.\

*Condos are listed by various MLS Participants
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Images from Sunrise Park – Charleston

Posted on August 8, 2014 by Donnie Whitaker

Camera to CameraA new hobby of mine is photography.  It is something I have always enjoyed but,  in the last couple of years have really come to realize.  I have been taking photos with my iPhone which can capture amazing images, although limited, but I decided it was time to take the next step.  A few weeks ago I purchased my first DSLR and I have been having a blast learning and taking images with it.  I have to admit it is a bit addictive and I have already found the more you shoot, the more you feel the urge to upgrade.  Since purchasing the camera I have already added a tripod and camera bag to the collection, and the urge to buy more lenses is there.

Anyway, the other day I took a trip to Sunrise Park on James Island to capture a few images.  The park is great for watching dolphins, birds, and other wildlife, and a great spot to capture the sun setting.  I also have to add it offers one of the best view of Charleston you will find.   For those photographers out there, I shot using a Canon EOS Rebel SL1 (lightest DSLR which I love) and lens attachments that included a Canon EFS 18-55 MM and 75-300 MM lens.  I thought I would share a few of the images below……

Red Sun

IMG_0216

Old Dock 1

Pelicans Dock

Schonner Pride

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Third Edition of Wild Dunes Condos Under $400K

Posted on July 31, 2014 by Donnie Whitaker

Yacht HarborGood news for anyone looking to own in Wild Dunes for under $400,000.  While the market has improved, the inventory for those looking in this price range has remained about the same.  Looking at the active listings below you will see inventory levels are up in Lagoon Villa and down in Port O Call.  As usual, there are slim pickings in Mariners Walk and Yacht Harbor, and the availability in the Moorings is consistent with the norm.

As of today (see post date) there are 16 condos for sale for under $400,000 in Wild Dunes with asking prices ranging from $319,000 to $400,000.   They are listed below:

1418840 – Details: 15 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $319,000 –  Lagoon Villa’s are located in the heart of Wild Dunes.  Owners and guest have the luxury of being within a short walk to the tennis center, Harbor Golf Shop, bike shop, and restaurants located at the Village

1420628 – Details: 8 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $324,500

1326138 – Details: 12 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $329,900

1205554 – Details: 38 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $330,000

1411282 – Details: 21 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $345,000

1326163 – Details: 44 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $369,600

1324170 – Details: 29 LAGOON VILLA, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $370,000

1412949 – Details: 202 PORT O CALL, #G, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $375,000 –  Prices in Port O Call have gone up.  In turn, you won’t find as much in the $300k price range as a year ago.  Port O Call sits on the Ocean side of Wild Dunes and offers owners and guest great ocean views and a private community pool, as well as access to the beach.

1309576 – Details: 301 YACHT HARBOR CT, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $378,750 – Yacht Harbor Villas are located on the backside of Wild Dunes offering views of Morgan Creek and a lush pool to relax in during the day.  The area is quiet and away from much of the resorts hustle and bustle.

1411847 – Details: 5800 PALMETTO DR, #A406, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $379,900 – The Village is Wild Dunes newest development located in the heart of Wild Dunes. Owners and guest are a stone throw away from restaurants, the spa, health center, and pool.

1308330 – Details: 503 MOORINGS, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $395,000 – The Moorings might be the least known condominium complex in Wild Dunes.  Hidden at the back end of Wild Dunes, the Mooring offers views of Morgan Creek, the Yacht Harbor, and has it’s own private pool that many say will feel like your own.

1329934 – Details: 501 MOORINGS, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $395,000

1418839 – Details: 201 PORT O CALL, #A, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $395,000

1029733 – Details: 102 PORT O’CALL, #102A, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $395,000

1331584 – Details: 103 PORT O CALL, #G 103, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $399,000

1418540 – Details: 5 MARINERS WALK, #B, ISLE OF PALMS, SC – $400,000 – Not a big fan of the high-rise?  if not, Mariners Walk might be for you.  Mariners Walk is located on the oceanside of Palmetto Drive and offers owners and guest a private community pool and boardwalk to the beach.  Mariners walk has different floor plans that can accommodate to different needs.

*condos are listed by various MLS participants

 

Posted in Uncategorized, Wild Dunes, Wild Dunes Condos, Wild Dunes Real Estate, Wild Dunes Real Estate Update | Leave a comment

Harris Teeter Open for Business on the Isle of Palms

Posted on May 5, 2014 by Donnie Whitaker

HTIOPBRIGHTWhile the opening of a Harris Teeter is rarely blog worthy, at least in my opinion, it’s opening on the Isle of Palms is.  For years Isle of Palms residents and vacationers have crossed the Isle of Palms connector to grocery shop.  Yes, there was the Red and White, but most did not feel it adequate for full on shopping.

I made my first trip the new Harris Teeter the other day and left impressed.  I was first greeted by the friendly staff and then proceeded to walk around the store in awe.  At first I have to admit it felt a little strange being in a Harris Teeter on the Isle of Palms.  I know, it’s just a Harris Teeter, but the feeling I got was that it was more as something so simple can bring a community together and make the area feel all that more sophisticated.  I am sure that was my first of many visits to the store.

 
by Donnie Whitaker

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