12.07.2023

Special Edition

Welcome to our COLA Real Estate newsletter, a bi-weekly product of COLAtoday.

Your bi-weekly local real estate update

In this week’s installation, explore local senior living options and five picks for first-time homebuyers on the market. Plus, see inside the most popular Zillow listing in South Carolina.

And don’t forget, let us know what you think or what you want to see more of.

Older Adults

Senior living in Columbia

Senior living in Columbia, SC

COLARetirementRoundup_COLARealEstate_12.7.23.jpeg

Photo via Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community Facebook

You asked, we’re answering. A handful of readers requested more information about retirement communities in the area — not assisted living, but independent living facilities. We love it when readers tell us what they want.

Before we dive in, remember — as you explore your senior living options here in COLA, you’ll find a variety of communities that cater to different needs and preferences, so (as with any place you’re looking to call home) make sure you weigh the pros + cons and make your list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves.

Still Hopes

Still Hopes is the only Episcopal-sponsored, non-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community in the greater Columbia area.

Located two minutes from downtown, the life plan community is comprised of both apartments and free-standing cottages nestled on 44 wooded acres.

Residents have numerous opportunities to remain active — both physically and mentally — with art classes, musical programs, and hobby groups.

Community services include a wellness center (think: indoor pool and fitness/aquatic classes), a rehab facility, and home and respite care.

A man and a woman lean over a table and shuck oysters. — Residents at Inspire Sandhill recently enjoyed an oyster roast.
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Photo via @inspiresandhill

Inspire Sandhill by Liberty Senior Living

Whether you’re retired or looking for a maintenance-free housing option, Inspire Sandhill offers in-home features + community amenities designed with 55 and over active adults in mind.

The property features an outdoor putting green space, creative art center, on-site fitness center with a trainer, swimming pool, and an on-site salon and barber shop. Residents can even take advantage of concierge services (we’ll take a 5 p.m. res at Ratio, please).

Each apartment rental boasts:

Chef-inspired kitchens with granite countertops
Oversized closets and balconies
In-unit washer and dryers

View floor plans for the one-and two-bedroom apartments or check current availability.

Merrill Gardens at Columbia

Located in the quickly developing BullStreet District, Merrill Gardens at Columbia sits minutes away from the Capitol and the University of South Carolina, and within walking distance to Segra Park, REI, Starbucks, Iron Hill Brewery, Publico at BullStreet, and more.

Single or married Soda Citizens 55+ can take their pick of private apartments and keep their independent lifestyle without the worry of everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and yard work.

Thinking of downsizing in the new year? Get clarity on if now is the right time with this four-minute assessment.

Featured listings

5 first-time homebuyer properties to check out

Renovated home in northeast Columbia | 5 BD, 2 BA | $230,000 | Recent upgrades include new windows and siding, plus fresh paint and new light fixtures, along with new counters + stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen. Bonus: The large yard is fenced and has a covered porch and play set.
Charming home in Rabon Farms neighborhood | 4 BD, 3 BA | $242,000 | This Great Southern Home “Tidewater” floor plan boasts an upstairs primary bedroom featuring a large walk-in closet, a walkout balcony, and a separate shower/tub. The spacious backyard is fully fenced in and offers plenty of privacy.
Beautiful home on 0.5+ acres with a gazebo and a pond | 3 BD, 2 BA | $299,900 | A gorgeous spiral staircase and a built-in drop zone welcomes you in, leading to a large family room that opens to an eat-in space and a built-in bar, perfect for entertaining. All three bedrooms are on the main level and feature LVP flooring.
Stunning and newly renovated home in Irmo’s Murraywood community | 3 BD, 3 BA | $265,000 | Equipped with front and rear decking, this home is perfect for entertaining guests or spending time with loved ones. The primary suite boasts a luxurious en-suite bathroom, complete with a spa-like shower and elegant fixtures.
Cozy and charming traditional home| 4 BD, 3 BA | $293,000 | The interior boasts a beautiful natural color palette, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere. With other rooms available for flexible living, you’ll have the freedom to create the perfect setup for your needs.

Asked

Are you looking to move or buy in 2024?

A. Yes, I’m looking for a bigger home
B. Yes, I’m looking to downsize
C. Yes, I’m looking to buy our first home
D. No, I’m happy with where I’m at
E. It depends on the market

New year, new home?

Hot Listing Alert

Listings you love: See inside Zillow’s most popular South Carolina home

Living room with vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, and floor to ceiling windows.

The homesite sits on ~7.02 acres with ~4.54 adjoining acres, and the home features two bedrooms with en suite baths, a separate laundry room near the primary suite, a detached two-car garage, and a huge fenced yard. | Photo via RE/MAX Island Realty

An off-the-grid cabin in Colorado. A floating chateau in Florida. A not-so-blank space in Kansas City. The popularity contest (home edition) is here, and the results are in. Take a trip across the country to see the most-saved listings in every state this year.

Here in the Palmetto state, that property is 41 Weatherford Dr. in Beaufort.

The spacious 4 BD, 3 BA Lowcountry home sits on over 11 acres of land, and is located minutes from great restaurants, shopping, MCAS Beaufort, and more.

Vaulted ceilings, room for horses, and a free-standing fireplace that’s the centerpiece of the living room? Check, check, check.

We’re dreaming of creating a compound here (thanks to the five electric/water hook-ups onsite) and getting the whole family involved.

Take a full photo tour

Shop

4 home-related white elephant gift ideas under $25

Framed print of Columbia, SC landmarks next to two wooden potted succulents.

Give the gift of Columbia with this signature Signet Sealed watercolor and ink city print design. | Photo via Six & Main

Give the gift of quick cooking cleanup with this desktop vacuum cleaner. It’s cordless, high suction, and low noise.
This electric heated throw blanket comes with a one-,two-, and three-hour automatic shut-off feature, giving your giftee peace of mind as you relax.
Friends don’t let friends have dry skin in the winter. This two-in-one humidifier and diffuser has an adjustable mist output and auto shut-off.
These suction cup hooks will ensure that your giftee enjoys many years of flawless front door holiday decor.
Can’t go wrong with a little hometown love. This Columbia, South Carolina print features some local favorites, including Riverbank Zoo, Five Points, Andy’s Deli, the State House, Williams Brice Stadium, the Horseshoe, and more.

Need more inspo? Here’s 25+ local white elephant-friendly ideas under $25.

Let us know what you think about COLA Real Estate, a product of COLAtoday, by answering a few quick questions.

The Wrap

Today’s edition by:
COLAtoday Team

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