CBT Realty - Savannah | Beaufort | Bluffton | Hilton Head Island

Waterfront Properties

2009-06-02T08:41:00.002-04:00

7 Bluff Drive - $2,875,000
504 East Bay - $3,250,000
67 Bluff Drive - $3,500,000
42 East Bay - $1,185,0000
707 Railwood - $1,675,000
11 Wylly Island Drive - $1,600,000
6 East View Lane - $850,000
1809 Chatham Avenue - $2,400,000
33 Modena Island Drive - $1,950,000
25 Officers Row - $1,315,000
15 Grimball River Road - $2,199,000
7 Little Comfort - $2,700,000

Fairway Oaks is 1st Mid-Modern Neighborhood Listed on National Register

2009-05-14T15:28:00.004-04:00

Fairway Oaks, a midtown neighborhood, has been officially approved by the National Register as "the first Mid-Modern subdivsion listed in the National Register in the state of Georgia."

Fairway Oaks was the first mid-20th-century suburban residential development to break with Savannah's 200 year-old tradition of laying out neighborhoods in a grid plan based on General Oglethorpe's original 1733 plan by using a curvilinear street layout with cul-de-sacs.

If you are interested in Savannah's Mid-20th-Century neighborhoods please contact us as we have an agent dedicated to selling Mid-Modern subdivisions! 912 233 6000.

Port Royal, SC voted Top 10 America's Coolest Small Towns

2009-04-16T09:31:00.006-04:00

Budget Travel's readers voted on America's Coolest Small Towns (announced on CBS's Early Show on April 15)and Port Royal, SC was voted in the Top 10!

And, you may ask, "Well, what were qualifications to become one of America's Coolest Small Towns?" Here's what they looked for...

...population of less than 10,000
...town must be on an upswing and beginning to draw attention AND new residents because of...
...quality of life!
...arts and restaurant scene!
...proximity to nature!
...edgy - think avant-garde galleries not country stores!

Lucky for you Cora Bett Thomas Realty has amazing listings in Port Royal, SC! Click here a take a look!

Click here for Budget Travel's full story on America's Coolest Small Towns.

30-Year Fixed Rates Fall to Record Low!

2009-04-07T09:48:00.005-04:00

If you were ever wondering when the best time to buy was, ponder no more! THE TIME TO BUY IS NOW!

30-year fixed rates have reached a record low at 4.78%!

Contact Cora Bett Thomas Realty TODAY to find your perfect home. Visit us in Savannah, GA (912 233 6000), Bluffton / Hilton Head Island, SC (843 757 6002) and Beaufort, SC (843 525 1100) or www.CoraBettThomas.com where you can search for homes on THREE MLS's!

CLICK to read the entire article in The Washington Post!

Cora Bett Thomas Realty Wins Recognition in Luxury Real Estate Marketing Contest

2009-04-06T11:17:00.002-04:00

- Recognition earned for First Place - Websites in international marketing contest -

Cora Bett Thomas Realty & Associates earned distinction in the Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection® Marketing Contest, held in conjunction with the Luxury Portfolio Workshop, March 25-26 at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale.

The award-winning internet eBlast in the website category was chosen based on professionalism of design, effectiveness in addressing the luxury audience and overall presentation. Cora Bett Thomas Realty was given the award at the Luxury Portfolio Awards Luncheon, where the network’s achievement awards were presented.

“The companies affiliated with Luxury Portfolio are renowned for their expertise in marketing luxury homes,” notes Paul Boomsma, president of Luxury Portfolio. “To earn distinction among this group is a significant honor, and I salute Cora Bett Thomas Realty for their achievement.”

Launched in 2005, Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection® has grown to include over 15,000 of the world’s most remarkable properties and attracts over 1.2 million high-net-worth visitors a year. The first to promote luxury properties in multiple languages and currencies, Luxury Portfolio is unmatched in the global arena, with members in 17 countries and website visitors from over 200 countries every month. The site’s total inventory of available properties exceeds $35 billion. Please visit http://corabettthomas.luxuryportfolio.com/cobranded.cfm for luxury homes and luxury homes for sale throughout the world.

For more information about Cora Bett Thomas Realty, please visit www.CoraBettThomas.com.

Jumbo Loan Ceiling Up!

2009-04-02T13:42:00.003-04:00

This is great news so it's worth repeating! The ceiling for jumbo loans is UP from $417,000 to $625,500 according to the March 21, 2009 article by Kenneth R. Harney in The Washington Post.

To read the full article click here!

Leaders in Luxury Real Estate JOIN Forces

2009-04-01T11:41:00.003-04:00

Cora Bett Thomas Realty & Associates dominates the luxury residential and commercial real estate market along the Georgia and South Carolina coast, with offices based in Savannah, Ga. and Bluffton and Beaufort, S.C. Founder and CEO, Cora Bett Thomas is proud to announce the merger with another preeminent luxury firm, Town & Country Real Estate, which is located in Beaufort, SC., “the crown jewel of the sea islands.” Combining their expertise and services, under the leadership of Cora Bett Thomas, the companies will operate as Cora Bett Thomas and Associates.

Town & Country Real Estate was founded in 1995 and covers Beaufort, Fripp Island, Harbor Island, Beaufort County, and in many of the surrounding areas of the South Carolina Lowcountry offering residential, land, and resort real estate sales as well as vacation, commercial and investment opportunities.

Cora Bett Thomas Realty and Town & Country’s merger comes at a time when many are departing the real estate industry. Thomas believes this is the opportunity for the real estate profession and real agents to embrace even higher professional standards and deeper levels of education. A superior level of customer service has always been of upmost importance to both firms. Continuing in that tradition and through the strong international affiliations of Cora Bett Thomas Realty, such as London based Mayfair International, and Who's who in Luxury Real Estate, The Board of Regents, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, and Luxury Portfolio, among others, will continue to attract an elite clientele to the Lowcountry.

“Town & Country Real Estate has long been known for its excellence in serving the needs of Buyers and Sellers in the unique Lowcountry market,” said Cora Bett Thomas. "We are thrilled about the integration of both of our outstanding firms. This positions Cora Bett Thomas Realty & Associates as the dominant residential and commercial real estate firm along the Creative Coast of Georgia and South Carolina - with profound expertise, service levels, and integrity that simply cannot be matched by any other company."

Cora Bett Thomas Realty remains on the cutting edge of technology and fully recognizes the powerful role the Internet plays in today’s real estate transactions. CoraBettThomas.com promotes listings in all price points to nearly 1000 other websites worldwide. With this merger, Town and Country clients will now benefit from the global exposure that CoraBettThomas.com provides Buyers and Sellers. “Today, more than ever,” says Thomas, “it is critical to search for Buyers in all parts of the world, not just locally. Our strategic partnerships provide this extraordinary opportunity.“

“This is an exciting time to become a part of Cora Bett Thomas Realty & Associates,” said Matt McAlhaney, an owner of Town & Country Real Estate. “Cora Bett Thomas Realty’s professionalism, operations, technology infrastructure and entrepreneurial force are an ideal match to our rich history and the unyielding tradition of quality that has served our loyal customers for so long."

McAlhaney added, “There is no better equipped agency to assist Sellers and Buyers in meeting the demands of today’s challenging market and our decision to join this powerhouse of a company illustrates our ongoing commitment to maintaining a competitive edge and to serving the needs of our community.”

Bill Anderson, an owner of Town & Country Real Estate concluded, “Our clients and our sales associates will all benefit from the synergy generated by this merger.”

Opportunity Knocks

2009-03-20T12:28:00.001-04:00

There are some desperate sellers out there, but perhaps none so desperate as banks. That's right - banks that own foreclosed properties are anxious to get them off their hands. After all, their business is lending, not property management.

If you are pondering the purchase of such an "REO," or Real Estate Owned property, how do you find one, and then determine if it's the right buy for you? Banks work almost exclusively with real estate professionals, so your best bet is to begin your search at your trusted local agent's office.

Chances are the broker will have a list of REOs to suit your needs and budget. While banks don't usually price these properties much above what they're willing to finally accept, lower offers on these listings stand an excellent chance for consideration.

Look for houses that have been listed for more than 90 days, and offer somewhere between ten to twenty percent below the asking price. However, do be aware of potential hidden costs associated with foreclosed properties.

Owners who vacate a foreclosed home may have left plenty behind in need of repair. Be sure to perform a thorough inspection - with electrical and gas systems operating - and ask your real estate representative to factor repair costs into your offer. If you're smart, it's a real buyer's market, but only if you buy!

Time For a House Call

2009-03-13T17:28:00.001-04:00

A real estate professional recently coined the term "Price Denial Syndrome," a troublesome condition that afflicts sellers having a hard time facing the realities of today's markets. Of course it’s difficult to make a pricing concession, but an overpriced home simply will not sell.

Perhaps the sellers argue that they really need the money, but then they have to ask themselves what they'll do for money if the home doesn't sell. Maybe they figure that they can shoot for the moon now and reduce the price later if they must. However, the longer a property remains unsold, the more likely it is that even more price reductions will follow. Then it’s taken even longer to get a sale at a lower price.

Some sellers might suggest trying a higher price just for the first two weeks, but that's when the interest of serious buyers is always greatest. Those buyers usually look within a certain range, and won't even make an offer at all on an overpriced property.

Most importantly, if the sellers need to buy another home, time is of the essence. If the sale takes too long, they'll be buying at a time when prices and interest rates may begin climbing again.

If you're suffering from PDS, pay attention to the news, review your home's Competitive Market Analysis, and call me in the morning!

The New Math

2009-03-06T16:24:00.002-05:00

A “new” solution to the "gloom and doom" scenarios is on the horizon, and it's called "cause and effect." Just as home prices have fallen in many markets, buyers are responding strongly to the stimulus.

Like today's stock market provides excellent opportunities for investors in it "for the long haul," so too does today's real estate climate appeal to buyers with long-term expectations. And, the more buyers take advantage of current conditions, the more prices will eventually begin rising again.

That is due to a number of reasons, one being the subsequent drop in inventories, and another being the rising cost of new construction. So, those markets where home prices have dropped the most are experiencing a rise in the level of home sales taking place.

Areas where buyers are entering the fray again are well poised for recovery, and it's possible that the prices are finally bottoming out. The recently enacted housing stimulus bill is helping too, as over two million first-time buyers are predicted to take advantage of the new tax credit.

In 2009, those markets with affordable housing combined with healthy local economies will continue to see growth. Cause and effect is already in action, and you should be, too. Consult with a financial advisor and a local real estate agent to get the best results from this new but age-old formula.

Red Bluff Plantation

2009-02-27T10:15:00.006-05:00

Red Bluff Plantation, located on the New River in South Carolina, yet only 15 minutes driving time from Savannah or Palmetto Bluff, is an historic Lowcountry example of irreplaceable quality. Its unsurpassed long vistas of river, marsh and hammocks, a fabulous main house, hunting amenities and infrastructure, combined with pedigreed authenticity make Red Bluff Plantation the most unique and rare gem on the Atlantic Seaboard.

Click here for more details on this amazing property.

Low Offers: Prevention is the Cure

2009-02-26T11:37:00.001-05:00

It takes an innovative marketing plan to cause a home to sell, but to attract serious buyers, it must also be priced fairly. What else must be done to successfully sell your home?

Buyers are in search of their dream home. If priced reasonably, they will purchase the home that best reflects their idea of that dream, and it’s the sellers who are in charge of making it happen.

Experience has shown that buyers often reduce their offers by as much as $2 for every $1 in uncompleted repairs. Sellers won't have to face those disappointing offers if attention is given to their home before it is ever shown.

The best method for improving buyer appeal is a "walk-through" by the sellers' real estate agent. The agent plays the part of a prospective buyer, and then suggests upgrades, repairs, and cosmetic improvements.

Then the sellers should complete all the work before the home is placed on the market. Neither a prospective buyer, nor another agent, should ever see the home until it is in 100% marketable condition.

Excuses made at a showing are an open invitation to a reduced price. When a buyer is disappointed, no explanation will suffice to bring the price back up. When selling, ask your agent for advice, and then take action. Buyers will often compete for such a good value.

Fast Acting Relief

2009-02-23T09:25:00.000-05:00

Our federal government passed the First-time Home Buyer Tax Credit last summer, giving buyers reason to get off the fence and into a home. There are just a few requirements, the first being that you haven't owned a home in at least three years.

If so, and you bought a primary residence in the United States last year after April 9, you may claim a credit of up to $7,500 on your 2008 tax return. If you plan to buy this year, then act quickly, because you'll need to purchase by July 1 to make the claim on your 2009 return.

The credit is figured as ten percent of the home's cost, up to the maximum of $7,500, if your individual income is less than $75,000 or household income is less than $150,000. At slightly higher incomes, you may claim the credit at a reduced percentage.

Keep in mind that this is not a "bailout," and in order to be cost effective for taxpayers, this credit must be paid back in very small increments over fifteen years, but not beginning until 2011. Basically, it's an interest-free loan for a fifteen-year term.

This incentive, combined with low rates, large inventories, and affordable prices, should put a home purchase well within your grasp. Get more details from a trusted real estate agent and begin your search today!

A More Profitable Alternative

2009-02-16T09:28:00.002-05:00

You’ve probably heard the term "reverse mortgage," which refers to a loan that allows homeowners aged 62 and older to tap the equity in their home, without repaying it. This has become an increasingly popular way for retirees to generate extra income for living expenses and paying off debt.

However, high fees and aggressive sales tactics prompted the Senate Special Committee on Aging to recently issue an investor alert. The intention behind the warning is not to discourage reverse mortgages, but rather to encourage homeowners to make sure it's the right loan product for them.

The biggest downside to such an agreement is that the up-front costs for application, legal fees, document recording, and loan origination fees can sometimes top 10% of the loan's value. For this reason, the federal government requires meeting with a financial counselor prior to applying for a reverse mortgage, helping ensure that it's the best loan product for your situation.

In addition to a financial advisor, you are strongly encouraged to consult with a local real estate agent. Simply put, you might generate more income by selling your home and moving to a less expensive one, directly pocketing the equity you've worked so hard to build over the years. An agent can compare your home's value to other attractive properties on the market, and guide you to a profitable conclusion!

Why We Saved Fannie and Freddie

2009-02-06T09:31:00.001-05:00

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - who or what are these entities, and why are they mentioned so often when discussing the current mortgage crunch? These two organizations either own or guarantee nearly half of all outstanding home loans. That's over twelve trillion in debt (that's a 12 followed by 12 zeros, or twelve million million dollars)!

So maybe you can see why the government took over and began overseeing their operations, bringing stability and continued liquidity to the national mortgage market. Both companies are placed in a government conservatorship, with the Fed taking up to an 80% stake. Progress is reviewed each quarter, and money injected into operations as needed.

Since the government is now explicitly backing the loans, the market for these securities is more like that for Treasuries, which lowers rates and benefits the real estate industry enormously.

Lower rates encourage more investors to return to the market. As that happens, rates continue to drop, and more funds go into the lending machine, further encouraging buyers to apply for financing. The result is increased housing sales, which helps to stabilize home prices.

As these companies and the Federal Housing Finance Agency plan a massive overhaul of operations, you can be assured that agents and the National Association of REALTORS® will provide feedback and help shape a better future for our housing industry.

USA Today :: Bluffton, SC Old World Charms, New World Bargains

2009-01-30T15:05:00.005-05:00

USA Today announced Bluffton, SC is the place to buy... and we agree! Whether it is a second home or a primary home, Bluffton offers a diverse selection of planned communities.

Click here to read full article in USA Today!

Ask Some Powerful Questions

2009-01-23T12:50:00.001-05:00

A home's electrical system is its bloodstream, and when you’re buying, you want to know that the flow is strong and safe. While an inspection should be required in your offer, knowing just a couple basics will help you in making your choice.

Recently built homes have 220-volt service, meaning two 110-volt wires run into the house, below or above ground. Large appliances need that power, and you should pay attention if you're looking at an older home that hasn't been upgraded yet. Get an estimate from an electrician before moving forward.

Important question: “Where is the main panel, and does it contain fuses or circuit breakers?" Both cut the flow of electricity when the system overloads, but in very different ways. Circuit breakers are more convenient, because they just need to be flipped back on when they "trip," but fuses found in older homes have to be replaced when they "blow."

Looking at a pre-1960’s home? Ask if the main panel has been upgraded to accommodate breakers instead of fuses. And, if you're buying a very large house, or want to renovate an older one, make sure the panel can handle 200 amps for all your appliances and electronics.

Any electrical system can be upgraded, but consult with your agent and an electrician before making any purchase or improvement decisions. You've got the power!

Have an Escape Plan

2009-01-15T11:08:00.002-05:00

Selling a home has its challenges, some of which go beyond the obvious aspects of determining an asking price and developing a marketing plan. Just trying to keep your home in immaculate condition while living there is no mean feat, not to mention being prepared for showings at any given moment. However, experience proves that there are some basic steps to take to alleviate these stresses.

First, be prepared with a large plastic storage tub for each room. When an agent and buyers are on their way for a showing, quickly unclutter each room by placing toys, personal items, and knick-knacks in the tubs and putting them in the closet. Then it's easy to replace everything once your visitors have left.

Also have your "escape plan" determined. Decide in advance where you’ll run off to for thirty minutes while your home is being shown. Maybe you'll go down to the park or the local coffee shop, but it helps to know where you'll go before you hop in the car and start driving around aimlessly waiting for prospective buyers to clear out of your home.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be flexible in your scheduling, as restrictions on your home’s availability can make marketing the home difficult for your representative. With a little preparation, you can be ready for anything, particularly that full price offer!

Looking for the Invisible

2009-01-09T08:54:00.002-05:00

When you hear the term "home inspection," you're likely to think of the electrical system, plumbing, roof and foundation, and smaller items like cracked windows or drafty doors. However, it's the elements in the home that cannot be seen that demand special attention on the part of buyers and sellers and the inspector they choose.

First, there's radon, a colorless and odorless gas that seeps up from the ground and has been labeled as a cause of cancer. Any home, but particularly those with basements, should be tested for high levels of this gas.

Next is asbestos, a fibrous material once used for insulation, but banned in 1985. Homes built before then should be tested, and care should be exercised not to disturb this material when remodeling these older homes.

Another threat is lead, a toxic metal that was widely used in paint, pipes, and other materials. Any home built before 1978 should be tested for its presence, and any lender offering HUD-insured mortgages will require a lead-safe certification for these older structures.

Another culprit is groundwater contamination, a particular concern for homes with older septic systems or underground oil tanks, or homes near industrial facilities. Also search for hazardous products stored in and around the home, making certain that they are removed before transfer of the property to new owners. Be smart and be safe!

Pause for Paws

2008-12-30T10:37:00.003-05:00

With millions of dogs and cats as members of American families, there’s a good chance that you've got pets sharing the home you're trying to sell. Since not everyone enjoys the company of animals, there are some measures you should consider taking before prospective buyers come over for a showing.

Pet odors are the biggest problem sellers face, but they can be easily minimized with thorough cleaning and vacuuming, and vigilant duty with the litter boxes. Black lights are available that help you to pinpoint the origin of any mysterious smells. It also makes a good impression if you pick up and store toys, bedding, and food and water bowls while your home is being shown to buyers.

If at all possible, take your dog(s) out with you when an agent brings visitors, or ask a friend or family member to keep your pet during the initial listing period. This will help reduce the stress on your pet at a time when showings are usually more frequent.

Another way to put buyers more at ease with their purchase is to offer a cleaning credit or allowance. Even if you're certain you'll remove all evidence of your beloved pets before vacating your home, the buyers may not share your confidence.

Why not offer these gestures of good will, thereby encouraging a better offer from the buyers?

CBTR Gives Back to the Community Through SAFE Shelter

2008-12-23T15:04:00.003-05:00

Savannah, GA—The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is when most people are on the hunt trying to find the best toy or the hottest gaming system. However for others in our community, this time of the year can cause stress and worry. The agents at Cora Bett Thomas Realty wanted to help those in need and contacted the Safe Shelter to adopt a family of four.

Even though the real estate market has been hit hard by the economic recession, the agents and staff at the luxury real estate firm continued a more than ten-year tradition. They put on their elf hats to fulfill the items on the family’s Christmas list by donating gifts, time, and money. The office celebrated the abundance of giving by hosting a wrapping party on Tuesday, December 16.

“We love being able to bring a smile to the faces of a family in need during the holiday season,” said Meg Albertson, Vice President of Marketing. “It’s so rewarding to give back to our neighbors in Savannah. We hope our gifts will help make this family’s Christmas even brighter.”

Cora Bett Thomas Realty has supported SAFE Shelter’s Adopt-A-Family program, which assists families affected by domestic violence by providing gifts and gift certificates during the holiday season. It is a wonderful tradition that the company looks forward to year after year.

CLICK here to see the video about the SAFE Shelter family.

Keep the Horse Before the Cart

2008-12-23T12:18:00.002-05:00

While many buyers are aware that a mortgage pre-approval letter increases their buying confidence and power, most may not understand exactly why pre-approval is so important. Why should you jump through the application hoops before even beginning your home search?

First, you'll know exactly how much loan you can afford, making your initial home search much easier. Why waste your time looking at homes either out of your reach or well below your financial grasp?

Second, pre-approved buyers stand on solid negotiating ground with sellers. Sellers working with well-qualified buyers are more likely to accept the offer and less likely to stall on terms and conditions.

Notice that the topic of this column is "pre-approval," and not "pre-qualification." What's the difference? Pre-qualification is easy - you provide basic information to a lender, and in a few short minutes, you have an answer. Pre-approval requires strict verification of documentation relating to your employment, credit history, sources of income, etc. It takes more time, but is more accurate and carries more weight.

Understand that pre-approval is not binding, and is still subject to a satisfactory appraisal on the prospective purchase. If your financial situation changes, interest rates rise or fall, or the deadline passes, a recalculation will be necessary; but a little legwork now will pay off handsomely as you approach the finish line on your contract.

The Move of a Lifetime

2008-12-18T14:55:00.001-05:00

If you're in your fifties, sixties or beyond, you may be facing your first move in decades. The process may seem overwhelming, and you may be anxious about the future and the big changes coming up. However, a trusted real estate agent can help with all the steps along the way, especially with selling your home quickly in a competitive market.

If you've occupied your home for ten, twenty or more years, you'll want to enlist family members to get your home market-ready, and prepare for your move. Beyond the cooperation of friends and family, you might also consider a professional "move manager" to help you settle in to your new home.

These experts are well versed in the complexities associated with moving from a "lifetime home" - the preparation involved in staging your home for showings as well as the organization needed to get you moved with a minimum of hassle and confusion. You are in complete control, while they unclutter the house, pack and organize boxes, make the home sparkle, and arrange for moving, shipping, or donating belongings as you direct.

By showing your home in the best possible light, buyers will be able to picture their own families there. Combined with the real estate agent's marketing tools, this formula can provide a quick and profitable sale while you settle into your new residence!

Flex Your Buying Muscle

2008-12-11T13:40:00.001-05:00

Regardless of the causes, most areas around the country are experiencing what is commonly referred to as a "buyer's market." That term might make sellers squirm, but for those purchasing a home, lower prices are just the starting point for negotiation these days.

During the recent "boom" years, buyers often accepted a property "as is," and asked for few concessions, even forgoing inspections and appraisals in an attempt to avoid being dumped for the next qualified buyer in the queue. Now, however, buyers are in the drivers seat and they know it, insisting on a variety of terms in their offers.

The most popular demand now seems to be the "home warranty," whereby the seller purchases a one-year service contract to cover any unexpected system and/or appliance repairs. Of course, this is on top of insisting that sellers pay for all needed repairs exposed by an inspection before closing, or at least an allowance paid to the buyers to cover the expenses.

Just one inspector doesn't seem to be enough, either. Now buyers are looking more closely at lead and radon levels, roofs and foundations, and looking into inspectors who specialize in these areas. Sellers find they need to be more flexible, or the buyers will simply move on to the next seller in the queue. Now is the time to boost your purchase power.

A North American FIRST... Right Here in Savannah!

2008-12-05T11:32:00.003-05:00

Savannah is unveiling North America’s first hybrid streetcar - a fully restored, green-powered 1930’s era streetcar as a matter of fact - in operation in celebration of Local Climate Action Week, which begins on December 8th and runs through the 12th.

Pretty cool stuff Savannah!