Local to Aiken? You may know what
ADDA is and what they do for our downtown community. If you’re new here or
thinking about a visit- we sit down this week with Emmalee Sams, Executive
Director of the Aiken Downtown Development Association to learn more!
Visit the Aiken Downtown
Development Association in person or online.
Thinking
about buying a home or piece of land with a pond? Having a water view is so relaxing and
picturesque. Brandi and I both have ponds and each is very different.
Brandi ‘s
pond is smaller pond mainly rain filled with some springs and is completely on
her and husband Ryan’s land, in other words not shared. They are in full
control of their pond. The pond my husband Scott and I live on is much larger, it
is spring fed with strong water source but we share it with 7 other homeowners.
Which means I have to consult and be in agreement with 6 fellow neighbors if
something is needed or a cost at our pond.
Today, we’re
sharing 7 important tips to consider when buying a home or land with a pond.
Let’s dive in!
Tip 1: Water
Quality
Check the
water quality. Ensure the pond is healthy and clean. This affects not only the
beauty but also the ecosystem. There are many resources to help you.
Tip 2:
Maintenance Costs
Understand
maintenance costs. Regular upkeep can include cleaning, weed control, and
possibly treating the water.
On our
larger pond, due to water flow being so strong we are limited in treatment
since it flows out so fast but there are things we have done in the past and
I’m sure in the future.
Tip 3: Do
Some Research
First check
out who’s responsible for the pond. If the pond is shared, check for any
maintenance agreements in place. Sometimes there are and sometimes not. Check
for legal restrictions. Some areas have regulations on pond use, changes or
development around the pond. Make sure you know the rules of that pond or in
general before you buy. Consult an attorney to research this if not easily
obtain and to understand the pros and cons.
Tip 4:
Professional Inspection
Have a
professional in pond management inspect the pond. They can assess its health
and offer valuable advice.
Tip 5: Pond
History
Obtain as
much history as possible about the pond. Ask if water levels fluctuate
significantly or stay consistent. Knowing the pond's history can help you
understand its long-term viability. This
might involve some sleuthing …. ask the neighbors or around the area.
Tip 6: Local
Wildlife
Consider the
wildlife. Ponds attract animals, which can be a joy, but also a challenge if
they’re not managed or understood. I’m going use the “S” word, yes there will
be some snakes. Research what animals you might encounter and be comfortable seeing
and dealing with. Personally, we love wildlife, Great Blue Heron, geese, hawks,
turtles but not so much the beavers even though they are hard workers.
Tip 7:
Safety Measures and Insurance
Plan for
safety. If you have kids or pets, make sure the area around the pond is safe.
Consider fencing or other safety measures. This is a personal decision.
Ponds are an
attractive nuisance. Everyone wants to come fishing, kayaking and enjoy your
pond sometimes without permission. This reason alone we maintain higher amount
of liability insurance policy just in case someone comes onto the pond and gets
hurt.
Owning a
home with a pond can be a dream come true and was for me, but it’s essential to
be informed and do your due diligence. If you have any questions or need
guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out we are happy to share resources and help you
purchase a home or land with a pond.
Best of Both Worlds. A rare find in popular Midtown Aiken—a charming brick cottage that effortlessly blends vintage character with modern convenience. An exceptional one-level residence is in pristine condition and highlights an abundance of sought-after features and new recent additions you will love.
Today we’re talking about a big
question: Should you buy a home now or wait for later? Right now, interest
rates are better than before, around 6% [as of posting of video 10.23.24]. If
you’ve been thinking about buying a home but are holding off, you’re not alone.
Many people are waiting, hoping for the market to change. But let’s think about
this.
Insurance and maintenance costs
are going up, which makes it harder for people to afford a home. And as these
costs rise, home values are climbing too. So, the question is: Should you wait
for things to get better, or should you buy now?
Also, remember that rents are
going up as well. If you wait, you might just end up paying more in rent
without any investment in a home. Some buyers think they should wait and see if
prices go down. But that might not be the best idea. History shows that home
prices usually go up over time, with only a few dips now and then. Waiting for
a big drop might not happen and what will the interest rates be?
Instead of waiting, consider
buying now. By purchasing a home today, you can lock in today’s interest rates,
which could save you money in the long run. Plus, you can secure your spot in
the housing market before prices go up even more. It might feel scary with
rising costs, but acting now can help you manage those challenges. Look at your
finances and explore your options. Working with a real estate and lending professional
can also help you make the best decision for you and your family.
In today’s market, waiting for
the perfect time might not be best choice for you. With home values rising and
affordability concerns growing, delaying your home purchase could put you at a
disadvantage.
So, think about seizing the
opportunity to buy now and secure your future! PLUS we are seeing a lot of opportunities
in the current housing market.
Thanks for watching! For more
tips on buying a home, subscribe to our channel and we would love to work with
you on your home buying journey today!
Discover Your Private Oasis in “The Vale”Escape the everyday hustle and bustle and step into your own private sanctuary, just minutes from the heart of Aiken. This stunning home features a refreshing swimming pool set within a beautifully landscaped .79-acre lot, complete with a fenced yard, lush grass area, and plenty of space for your vegetable and herb gardens, all framed by a serene, wooded buffer.Ask us or your favorite agent for a list of upgrades and to schedule your private showing today! Brandi Cook + Vikki Crossland 803.645.3325 | info@aikenhomes.com Meybohm Real Estate #thesearchisover #aikenhomesteam #meybohmrealestate#aikensc #theplacetobe #newlisting #justlisted #updated #listingagents#buyersagents#aikenrealestate #fartheralongphotography #homesweethome#itsabigdecision#weknow#heretohelp#generationsofrealservice#yourhomeyourlifestyleyourteam
