AboutSharon Wilkerson Expertise I can answer questions on residential real estate whether they concern buying or selling, 1031 exchanges, or investment property/vacation property. I can answer some questions on South Carolina law concerning the aforementioned property type sales. I cannot answer questions concerning commercial property.
Experience I am a realtor in the Charleston, SC, area which is an historic seaport town on the coast located between Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. I have serviced both buyers and sellers from those looking to purchase their very first home to those looking for a place to retire. I have a network of realtors around the South Carolina area with whom I am in touch concerning the South Carolina real estate market.
Organizations The Charleston Tri-county Association of Realtors; The South Carolina Association of Realtors, The National Association of Realtors; Women at Work; The National Conservancy; Daughters of the American Revolution
Education/Credentials BA degree in Business and BA degree in Theatre Arts
Expert: Sharon Wilkerson Date: 6/19/2007 Subject: Where to buy - outdoorsy, mountains?
Question Hello, my wife and I are looking to relocate to a less densely populated area, a cheaper area, an outdoorsy area in the mountains full of nature and with good weather. I'm kind of partial to South or North Carolina or Colorado. We're thinking we might open a business. We are both 40 and very energetic for our ages. My wife has over $300,000 equity from her home. We may buy a property or land outright and then invest the rest. Are there certain areas of the country that will do better in real estate? North Carolina seems very affordable compared to where we now live (White Plains, NY). Which areas will do better in business? Where can I look up and compare and contrast these factors? I'm kind of caught though, because I would like to open a business but I'd like to live with less people around. What do you think? I respect your opinion. Thanks in advance.
Brendan
Answer Dear Brendan,
The areas in North Carolina that you may want to consider are Asheville, Hendersonville, Black Mountain, and Flat Rock; Boone, Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, and Banner Elk (snow skiing); Cashiers, Tryon, Highlands, Lake Toxaway, and Brevard. Most of these areas have good seasonal business from people escaping the heat of the lower areas. That would give you a chance to make money in your business during the summer months and relax with fewer people around in the chilly months. In South Carolina you may want to consider areas near Greenville such as Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, Lake Cherokee, Clemson, and Anderson. Keep in mind that western North Carolina will have the more mountainous terrain.
I'm not sure where to find information to compare and contrast the factors. You are probably better off visiting several areas, perhaps talking with the local Chamber of Commerce, and seeing for yourself whether or not it would be a good fit for you. You can also check out the government links www.ncgov.com and www.sc.gov for more information on starting up a business in these states.
I'll keep looking for a website that may help you.
Good luck in your search!
Sharon Wilkerson, REALTOR
Prudential Carolina Real Estate
Charleston, South Carolina
