Month: August 2018

Greenville, SC

Downtown Greenville, SC – Living in Style!

Historic, charming, and located at the mouth of the Appalachian Mountains, Downtown Greenville, SC living is downright exhilarating. Dating back to the 1600s, the area is still rich with colonial architecture. Swift growth over the last three decades has made this Southern city a national darling – easily landing on national top destination lists. In 2016, Greenville was ranked as the 3rd best downtown in America by Livability.com. In 2017, the city was ranked among the best places to live nationally by U.S. News.

Convenience, Location, and Low Cost of Living

Musicals, plays, art, and concerts all over the place.

The downtown Greenville lifestyle has a distinctive southern charm and appeal. There are endless opportunities to bike, hike, and play golf and several minor league teams call the downtown Greenville area home. Living in downtown Greenville means that you can easily walk to some of the city’s most famed entertainment spots. Over 100 retailers and 120 restaurants packed in a small area makes shopping in Greenville bliss for You have unlimited options to try southern delicacies and international cuisines at the awesome restaurants right in the neighborhood. The Saturday Market, which runs from May through October, offers access to fresh, local produce.  And in the case you need to get out of town for a little errand, the city has a vibrant transportation system that includes some open air trolleys.

Cost of living in downtown Greenville is considerably low compared to other cities in the country. There are many Greenville apartments available at reasonable rates for downtown dwellers. Homes closer to the business district might appear to be more expensive than in the suburbs, but these tend to appreciate much faster over time.

Opportunities in Manufacturing, Healthcare, and More

Known to be one of the state’s foremost economic hubs, downtown Greenville offers ample employment opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and many other industries. Some of the biggest employers in South Carolina have a presence here including Michelin, which set up its headquarters and R&D center in Greenville, and Baldor Dodge Reliance. BMW, Lockheed, 3M, GE, and many other fortune 500 companies are also leading employers in Greenville. The Greenville Healthcare System alone employs over 10,000 people, with three quarters of them working directly at the Greenville Memorial Hospital. Thanks to a conducive business atmosphere, Greenville is attracting more employers – pumping more jobs into the local economy.

One of the Best Places to Live and Raise a Family

Greenville has been ranked as one of the best places to live and raise a family in South Carolina. The vibrant arts scene, corporate setting, and historic appeal makes downtown Greenville both classy and artsy. Greenville has a diverse population, with folks coming from all over the world. It’s common to have neighbors from distant states and other countries around the world. You’ll typically hear a bit of German or French being spoken while you go about your business in the downtown Greenville area. Indian, Asian and other global cultures are also well represented here. And all this diversity makes the city a little global village – great to live and work in. Furthermore, Greenville’s schools happen to be some of the best not only in the county but also in the state. This makes the area a favorable destination for parents with school going children.

Ample Outdoor Activities and a Daily Dose of History

There’s no shortage of outdoor activities if you live in the Downtown Greenville area. Residents can visit the Paris Mountain State Park, or take an educative walk through the town’s history. Falls Park on Reedy River Falls, the Greenville County Museum of Art, and the Greenville Zoo are just but a few of the places where you can catch some fun. If you’re into architecture, a stroll to the Liberty Bridge in Falls Park is just what you need to lift your spirits. This award winning bridge provides a 380 foot pedestrian walkway over a 60 foot waterfall. There are miles of walking and bike trails that conveniently lead to the Greenville Zoo.

For those who appreciate a little bit of history, calling Greenville home is right up your ally. Residents get to enjoy a lot of southern history in the course of their everyday engagements. Centuries-old houses offer a rich glimpse into the town’s past.

The Downtown Greenville Real Estate Market

The Downtown Greenville area has a much diversified real estate market. House prices are all over the board, and there’s everything from condos, apartments, and single family homes. Stately colonials and manor houses are common in the neighborhoods just next to the downtown. Apartment complexes and condos are mostly concentrated in the downtown area.

Property values in the Greenville downtown area are rising and will continue to do so. It makes great sense to purchase in this area, whether to live in or for investment purposes. As the town continues to grow, home prices will continue to scale up.

Downtown Greenville SC is no doubt one of the best places to combine no commute to work with residential living. Progressive policies and strategic planning by authorities continue to make this area a magnet for investment, tourism and other growth opportunities.

Have you ever lived in or visited the Greenville downtown area? Let us know what you liked most about it!

Featured Image Source: VisitGreenvilleSC.com
South Carolina

13 Inviting Sustainable Communities in South Carolina

Sustainable communities create an environment where humans and nature can mutually thrive for generations to come. They emphasize walkability, energy efficiency, and open spaces. If you’re looking to settle in the Palmetto State, this page highlights 13 awesome communities with Green Homes for sale.

What is a sustainable community?

Green communities are neighborhoods that increase resource efficiency, protect the environment, and yield long term reduction in operating expenses. Benefits to community members include improved comfort and energy efficiency, a healthier indoor and outdoor environment, easier maintenance requirements and increased durability. Sustainable communities have an innovative approach to enhancing the quality of life for their residents.

Green Community Checklist/Infographic

13 prime green communities in South Carolina

Looking to live and thrive in a Palmetto Stage sustainable community? Start your search for a green home in these South Carolina communities.

1. Hartness in Greenville, South Carolina

Hartness is a new home green community located in one of Greenville’s most pristine natural environments. It is characterized by natural beauty, vastness and a rich landscape. Residents get to enjoy miles of existing trails and over 180 acres of nature preserves surrounded by lakes and streams. Community members can bike, hike or walk in a serene natural environment right within the neighborhood.

There’s a village center where residents can enjoy dinner at the rooftop restaurant, catch some ice cream for the kids, or get dry cleaner services.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices in Hartness range from $400,000 to $1 million.

2. Greenville City Area

The Greenville City area offers multiple opportunities for residents who are looking for a green home. Years of strategic planning and supportive city policies have helped make Greenville one of the Greenest cities in the nation. More so, authorities actively encourage real estate builders to build homes that meet rigorous ‘green’ standards.

In 2011, the Greenville City Council did establish the Green Ribbon Advisory Committee. This body advises city staff on the development of sustainable programs and initiatives. Their main goal is to reduce Greenville’s environmental impact and distinguish it as a national leader in sustainability. To encourage use of low-emission vehicles, Greenville is installing no-charge electric vehicle charging stations in many parking facilities. The city emphasizes green transportation, bike lanes, and other features that have help make it one of the most livable destinations countrywide. Thanks – in part – to these municipal led efforts, there are many green homes cropping up within and around the city of Greenville, SC.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”phone” wrap=”i”] Contact Palmetto Park Realty on 1-844-414-2000 for Green Home Inquiries in Greenville

3. The Cliffs Communities

The Cliffs are a collective of seven self-sustaining communities located on the foothills South Carolina and North Carolina – with over 2,800 residences. Located minutes away from the charming southern cities of Greenville SC, Asheville, and Clemson, The Cliffs offer residents endless ways to explore the great outdoors and enjoy a great quality of life.

Known to be some of the most sustainable and successful communities in the Carolinas, The Cliffs have managed to conserve an idyllic, breathtaking scenery! Residents have the opportunity to enjoy amenities in all 7 communities. There are ample outdoor and recreational activities in the area. In 2015, the “The Cliffs Organic Farm” was launched. This is a community based organic farm that is dedicated to growing farm produce for residents. Community members can savor the bounty at any of the chef run restaurants in the area. Part of what makes The Cliffs such as successful case of green living is a collective culture of environmental responsibility.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices in The Cliffs range from $500,000 to $4 million.

4. Baxter Village, Fort Mill

Baxter Village is a planned community with quaint homes and a family-friendly atmosphere. Over the last 15 years, the area has grown to become a sustainable green community surrounded by acres of open space, as well as miles of sidewalks and trails. One of Fort Mill’s most established communities, Baxter Village has more than 1,500 homes. About 450,000 square feet in the community is space dedicated to shopping, dining, and working. Residents get to enjoy the small town feel, easy access to the Charlotte metropolitan area, and ample outdoor recreational activities. For parents who have school going children, it helps that the Fort Mill School District was ranked #2 Best School District in South Carolina in 2018.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices here range between $300,000 to $700,000.

5. North Charleston

Thanks to ongoing sustainability efforts, North Charleston is arguably the lowcountry’s greenest city. After it’s experience with runaway development, the community has been working to put its house in order. Green businesses, event spaces, and new parks are becoming the order of day. In the town’s Oak Terrace Preserve, bioswales are used to naturally clean stormwater. The town’s historic city hall is now heated and cooled by a geothermal system. More than two thirds of all solar power in South Carolina is now generated in North Charleston. These green credentials have helped North Charleston attract new businesses to the region, and make sustainable living an achievable goal for residents.

Charleston was ranked #1 by National Geographic on the list of small cities with good green spaces.

Members get to enjoy the ample amenities available here, as well as the truly breathtaking Riverfront Park. The farm to table trend is also catching steam in this part of South Carolina, bringing fresh produce closer to residents’ doorstep.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices in North Charleston range from $85, 000 to $250,000.  

6. Carnes Crossroads, Charleston

This is a master-planned community located near Charleston and the downtown Summerville area. Community residents enjoy sightly parks, lakes, open green spaces, tree-lined streets. The vibrant downtown area offers all types of modern amenities for residents. The Green Barn is a historic open air space that is used by residents for everything from special events to seasonal farmers’ market, wine tasting and fitness training. Homes here feature traditional southern-style architecture and tend to be very popular with families and retirees who want to be closer to the coast.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices here range from $200, 000 to $500,000.

7. Southbury, Myrtle Beach

Located close to Myrtle Beach, the small sustainable development of Southbury is known for its green homes. All homes here are LEED and Energy Star Certified, which essentially means that they are extremely energy efficient. Residents can enjoy the blend of southern charm, sprawling greenery, and efficient modern amenities. Trees are a common feature in this neighborhood, and open spaces leave a lot of space for nature and outdoor activities.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices in Southbury average $200,000 – $250,000.

8. Myrtle Beach SC

One of the most popular tourist destinations in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach is also an eco-friendly community that’s showing potential for smart growth. Myrtle Beach was ranked as the second best beach in America by Travel Channel. Still, the beach is not the only thing this area has to offer. The city’s planning division is working on bringing together neighborhoods and connecting them with pedestrian and bike friendly transportation. The Myrtle beach community offers residents lots of opportunities for fine dining, leisurely strolls, and beach attractions. The city’s business community also works to ensure that the coast is well taken care of so it remains healthy and lucrative.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices in Myrtle Beach range $100,000 – $190, 000.

9. Celadon in Beaufort, SC

Located on one of the most picturesque Sea Islands in Beaufort, Celadon is a wellness-centered sustainable living community. Walking trails, community parks, ponds and picnic areas characterize life at Celadon. The community boasts a serene setting, moss-draped live oaks, and modern amenities that emphasize wellness for mind, body, and soul. The environment encourages families to go out and interact with neighbors, as well as pursue healthy living.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices range between $300, 000 and $600, 000.

10. Coosaw Point in Beaufort, SC

This is a sustainable living community in Beaufort that is set in 400 acres of lowcountry woodlands and wetlands. Coosaw Point is characterized by a great location just 10 minutes from Beaufort and about an hour from Hilton Head. Lowcountry cottage homes overlook vast green lawns and live oak trees. About 130 acres of its space remains open for nature. The riverfront, wetlands, and abundance of lowcountry wildlife provides ample opportunities for nature lovers. Amenities available for residents here include crab docks, a community dock, tennis courts, walking trails, open nature areas, a pool complex and clubhouse. Known to be one of the most peaceful retirement communities on Lady’s Island, Coosaw Points offers an incredible environment for both retirees and family residents.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices range between $475,000 and $1.5 million.

11. Hilton Head Plantation

This master-planned sustainable living community is located on the northern tip of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Many property owners are attracted to this neighborhood due to its immense natural beauty. Hilton Head Plantation is characterized by manicured areas, golf courses, and open spaces.  The community boasts more than 10 miles of leisure paths where residents can walk or bike. There’s also a very active farm club here, where residents can grow crops for own personal consumption. Farmers often collaborate to grow blueberries and other fruits, and there’s a beekeeper to help with pollination and honey harvesting.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices range from $200,000 to $500,000

12. Hampton Lake in Bluffton, SC

This is a South Carolina lakefront community located close to Hilton Head Island. Residents get to enjoy a relaxed way of life that is centered around the 165-acre fresh water lake that was created to promote a sustainable population of aquatic life. Popular outdoor activities include swimming, boating, and fishing. There’s also an award-winning amenity village at Hampton Lake that includes a boat house, a lake house, a large outdoor pool, a restaurant, children’s playground area, tennis courts, a fitness facility, spa, and many other offerings.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home prices range from $300,000 all the way to $1.8 million.

13. I’on Village, Mount Pleasant

I’on Village is a 243 acre Mount Pleasant community that is centered around sustainability, walkability, and efficiency. Located about 10 minutes (by car) away from Charleston and the beaches, this community features traditional Charleston-style homes with double chimneys, copper roof accents and triple porches. Ample green spaces and unbeatable amenities make I’on village the go-to community for people who are looking to settle in a relaxing sustainable community. Amenities available here include an Olympic size swimming pool, club houses, tennis courts, fitness facilities, boat ramps, dock facilities, and children’s play area.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”home-2″ wrap=”i”] Home values here range from $270, 000 up to $2 million.