Commercial real estate brokers in Daniel Island, SC

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  • Construction Management
  • Investment Analysis
  • Property Development
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Commercial real estate
Commercial Real Estate Daniel Island, SC

With an average of 230 days of sunshine each year, a low cost of living, and endless recreational activities, Charleston is a joy to call home. As the second most popular place to live in the U.S., metro Charleston is booming, not only with new residents but with new construction and property investment opportunities too. But with the Tri-County's rapid rate of growth comes increased real estate demand and complexity. That's especially true for commercial real estate transactions. According to CoStar, near-zero vacancy rates and short supply have forced rents and sales to reach record highs. At the same time, online medical and grocery purchases, along with last-mile delivery needs, have driven a new desire for industrial space.

It's safe to say that there is a lot of opportunity on the table for commercial real estate sellers and investors in South Carolina. But capitalizing on that opportunity without the proper market knowledge, relationships, or risk analysis can actually be counterproductive to your goals. That's where Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic's commercial real estate brokers in Charleston, SC, come into play.

As experts in the commercial real estate industry for more than 37 years, our brokerage provides the highest level of service to clients in today's rapid, constantly-changing business climate.

Service Areas

The Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic Difference

At Coldwell Banker Commercial, we pride ourselves on having local power and a global presence. Our clients entrust their complex and lucrative commercial real estate deals to us because they understand the value of working with brokers who are familiar faces within the community. On any given day, you could be standing next to one of our brokers at a grocery store or local restaurant. As your friends and neighbors, we're proud to call the Lowcountry home. Though we have local roots, our resources and expertise are backed by a global network. That power gives our commercial real estate clients peace of mind, knowing they have access to a dynamic and diversified brokerage of highly-trained and educated agents.

 Commercial Real Estate Brokers Daniel Island, SC

From general commercial leasing services and property management to investment guidance and new property site selection, our team works tirelessly to exceed your expectations and meet your goals. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, lease, or develop, our commercial real estate brokerage in Daniel Island, SC provides the up-to-date advice and time-tested market knowledge needed to facilitate any commercial real estate transaction, large or small.

Some of the commercial real estate specialties we focus on in South Carolina include:

  • General Brokerage and Commercial Real Estate Leasing Services
  • Commercial Investment Analysis
  • Commercial Property Management
  • Commercial Property Development
  • Commercial Construction and Project Management
  • Disposition, Acquisition, and Work-Out Properties

At the end of the day, our commercial brokers and agents aren't satisfied until you're a happy customer. That's why every service and decision we recommend is made with your best interests in mind.

Commercial Real Estate Daniel Island, SC

Why Hire a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Daniel Island, SC?

Perhaps you're in a situation where you need more space for a growing business. Maybe, instead, you want to capitalize on low-interest rates and buy a commercial real estate investment property to bolster your portfolio. Whatever your needs may be, whether as an investor or a small business owner, your goals are probably the same: lock in the best value and negotiate optimal terms for leasing, buying, or selling. When it's all said and done, you want to minimize expenses and maximize your ROI.

Unfortunately, commercial real estate is complex by nature. Given today's ever-changing real estate landscape and the challenges of our economy, working with a commercial real estate agent is the savviest way to save money and lessen the likelihood of making a poor investment.

That's because the very best commercial real estate brokers, like those at Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, do more than putting "for sale" signs in yards and in newspapers. They have the tools and training to source and present research apropos to your commercial real estate purchase or sale. They also have the ability to provide transaction and advisory services to ensure every aspect of your CRE process goes smoothly and efficiently. But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Here are a few of the biggest reasons to work with a commercial real estate broker in South Carolina.

Save Money

Save Money

Unsurprisingly, money is one of the biggest reasons why people steer clear of CRE brokers - for the cost savings. Yet, just about every commercial real estate transaction is managed by a commercial real estate brokerage. Why might that be? The answer is that smart business owners, executives, and investors know that the most lucrative cost savings stem from good planning, time management, and successful negotiations. Only an experienced commercial real estate broker can provide you with those features while also properly structuring your commercial real estate deal.

Manage Your Time

Manage Your Time More Effectively

Commercial real estate investors and business owners often have jam-packed schedules with little time to spare for anything other than day-to-day operations. If that sounds familiar, you know how crucial time management is for commercial real estate. By working with a seasoned broker, you can uphold your daily responsibilities while they provide guidance and manage the minutia of your CRE dealings.

Specialized Systems

Access to Specialized Systems and Data

Reputable commercial real estate brokerages provide access to a bevy of information that is pertinent to your commercial real estate goals. We're talking vacancy and absorption rates, the latest sales price data, comparative labor and tax costs, and more. Your broker will help break down this information so that you can make the most informed decisions possible. Brokerages like Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic also have systems and software to facilitate complex real estate processes while eliminating unneeded costs. The combination of accumulated data and exclusive systems results in a more cost-effective, efficient way to meet your real estate requirements on terms that are beneficial to you.

Success and Experience

Years of Success and Experience

As is the case with most things in life, practice and repetition are essential in honing skills and achieving business success. The truth is that no amount of money or "how to" articles can suffice for decades of real-world, hands-on experience. Sure, you can find a litany of commercial real estate info online. But those articles won't teach you about navigating the nuances of structuring advantageous purchase terms or completing complicated due diligence tasks. A successful commercial real estate broker in Daniel Island, SC, will have no problem executing these often-confusing processes because they've done it dozens and dozens of times before. This priceless experience is your best resource for successful commercial real estate initiatives.

Service Integration

Service Integration

One of the biggest advantages of working with a commercial real estate brokerage is their ability to provide necessary services that are relevant to your real estate needs. As a Coldwell Banker Commercial affiliate, we are part of a network that allows us access to accounting, legal, and other services needed on your real estate journey. Finding and vetting these services can be very costly and time-consuming, which is unneeded stress that we're happy to remove from your plate.

Purposeful

Purposeful and Engaging Marketing

For any project to be successful, a strategic marketing plan must be implemented to achieve the desired results for our clients. The methods of exposing and promoting a property must be creative, innovative, and unique to your property. At Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, we utilize the most effective methods that make sense for your property in South Carolina, including:

  • Print Materials
  • Digital Marketing
  • Design Renderings
  • Photography
  • Weekly and Monthly Advertising
  • Affiliation Marketing
  • Signage
  • More
Negotiating Acumen

Negotiating Acumen

If you're reading this page, chances are you're successful to some degree and have entered negotiations a time or two in your professional life. While that's nothing to sneeze at, the art of negotiating in the commercial real estate industry is a skill that must be honed over years of transactions. In the world of CRE, transaction negotiations are often time-consuming and stressful - two things you don't need in your life. Your commercial real estate broker will use their experience to relieve you of that stress so that you can focus on growing your business or serving tenants.

Knowledge of Local Markets

Knowledge of Local Markets

One of the most valuable reasons for working with a commercial real estate brokerage is that staff have a deep understanding of South Carolina's real estate market. In the Lowcountry, trends and market conditions are constantly changing. Opportunities are lost and found daily.

With this market knowledge, your commercial real estate broker in Daniel Island, SC, can provide an easy-to-understand analysis of various commercial properties within your budget. They'll know what relevant properties are leased or sold for and how much. Savvy commercial real estate brokers are also always informed on local demographics and market indicators that impact your commercial real estate goals. For instance, with COVID becoming a more accepted part of our lives, leasing, and sales in retail have taken off, especially for Class A and Class B centers.

Brief Overview A Brief Overview of Our Specialties

At Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, we specialize in several commercial real estate services. Though each service is comprehensive and will differ for each client, here is a brief overview to help you understand the scope of our abilities.

Brokerage
General Brokerage and Leasing Services

We're proud to say that our commercial real estate brokers in Daniel Island, SC, are equipped with all the necessary skills and traits to make your life easier. From transactional needs to marketing strategies, our experience and market knowledge is second to none, allowing us to ensure your success in today's market.

Property Management
Property Management

In an ever-changing commercial real estate industry, our approach to property management is constantly evolving. Our team has extensive experience in commercial real estate management and recognizes its importance as a foundation for long-term value and wealth. As such, Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic provides tailor-made property management packages that meet your specific assets needs and objectives.

Construction Management
Project and Construction Management

Whether you're entering a build-to-suite or remodeling a commercial property, our associates are ready to represent you with facility planning, design, construction, zoning restrictions, and so much more. If you're looking for a brokerage that can guide you through every step of the construction process with your goals and budget at heart, look no further than Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic.

Investment Analysis
Investment Analysis

Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic provides comprehensive investment analytics to better evaluate potential investments and increase return on those investments. Additionally, our team can facilitate single or multiple-location transactions and also find alternative financing recommendations if needed.

Property Development
Property Development

From selecting the perfect building site for your property to overseeing its initial construction, our associates provide experience and expertise when you need it most, covering every step and service of property development. If needed, our team can assemble the right professionals to ensure your property is developed to your unique specifications and applicable regulatory standards.

Acquisition
Acquisition, Disposition, and Work-Out Properties

Our commercial real estate brokerage represents clients in both the disposition and acquisition of property and works directly with you to determine your needs. We then strive to improve efficiency and reduce costs. We also assist financial institutions and government agencies in the management and disposition of ‘troubled properties.' Our firm incorporates its spectrum of services to efficiently turn these properties around and improve their value for ultimate disposition.

 Commercial Real Estate Brokers Daniel Island, SC

Time-Tested Tips for Commercial Real Estate Investing

If you're just getting started in commercial real estate investing, you're probably searching for reliable advice and best practices to follow. While hands-on experience and guidance from a commercial real estate broker are always best, a little advice never hurts. After all, there's a wide world of opportunity out there. As you begin to build a more robust portfolio, keep these tips and tricks in mind.

Take Your Time

Take Your Time

Commercial real estate deals can take a lot longer than traditional single-family transactions. That's true throughout the entire process, from purchase, to renovation, to selling. That's not a bad thing - after all, having impatience is a good way to rush into a poor decision. Instead of a means to quick cash, think of commercial real estate deals as a large bonus or as a vehicle for retirement.


Keep an Open Mind

Keep an Open Mind

Many commercial real estate investors jump right into the multi-family property space. However, it's essential to keep other types of properties in mind, such as mobile homes, office buildings, land, and even mobile home parks. Forget about your comfort zone. Instead, weigh your options and choose a niche that helps you meet your goals.


Financing

Search for Great Financing Before Making Offers

Commercial loans are quite different than their residential counterparts. In some ways, they're better. Though down payments are typically higher, meaning you'll put more down, there's often no personal liability involved. Plus, commercial loans can be more forgiving when borrowing money for down payments. The bottom line is to search for the best lenders before making an offer. If you're having trouble, ask your commercial real estate broker for assistance, as they often have connections and partnerships with relevant entities.


Learn the Appropriate

Learn the Appropriate Formulas

If you're used to buying residential homes, you're probably familiar with some formulas, such as buying 75% of after-repaired value minus the estimated cost of repairs. Depending on the type of commercial property you're buying or selling, you'll have different formulas to learn. Two examples are Cap Rates and Net Operating Income. Learning these formulas can be very beneficial when making an offer.


Real Estate

Lean On Your Commercial Real Estate Agent in Daniel Island, SC

If you find yourself discouraged with the commercial real estate game, remember that the team at your commercial real estate brokerage is there to make your life easier. At Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, we have a powerful brokerage with a team of over 20 highly skilled and educated agents. Our job is to serve you, whether you're a new investor looking for your first deal or an experienced property owner looking for 1031 tax investment advice.

Commercial Real Estate Daniel Island, SC

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Latest News in Daniel Island, SC

South Carolina Aquarium releases 400th sea turtle

Recently, the South Carolina Aquarium proudly released its 400th rehabilitated sea turtle. Jim — a juvenile green sea turtle named in memory of a beloved Aquarium colleague who passed away last year — was joined by nine other sea turtles completing their own journey home from Little Talbot Island State Park in Jacksonville, Florida.With a humble start that began because of a need to help a sick and injured loggerhead named Stinky, the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center has flourished beyond just a working hospi...

Recently, the South Carolina Aquarium proudly released its 400th rehabilitated sea turtle. Jim — a juvenile green sea turtle named in memory of a beloved Aquarium colleague who passed away last year — was joined by nine other sea turtles completing their own journey home from Little Talbot Island State Park in Jacksonville, Florida.

With a humble start that began because of a need to help a sick and injured loggerhead named Stinky, the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center has flourished beyond just a working hospital and into a powerful conduit for conservation awareness and action.

“There are so many emotions we experience with each sea turtle release: pride for their successful rehabilitation, adoration for the impact they had on us and hope for their journey that lies ahead. A bittersweet feeling settled in with this release, as we remembered the colleague who this turtle was named after,” says Melissa Ranly, Sea Turtle Care Center manager.

“Jim had been at the Aquarium since our 30th sea turtle release 16 years ago, sustaining the critical life support systems for our sea turtle patients and always lending a helping hand. We’re grateful that we could honor his dedication to our mission through this release.”

This release group comprised the three most common species seen by the South Carolina Aquarium — green, Kemp's ridley and loggerhead sea turtles — all of which are threatened or endangered.

Among the greens were Asiago, Jim, Waterloo, Burrata and Java (named in support of Charleston Coffee Roasters), all of whom were rescued along the South Carolina coast dealing with a variety of ailments from boat strikes to predator bites.

Followed were two Kemp's ridleys that were initially caught on hook and line, Cheddar and Manchego.

The release culminated with three juvenile loggerhead sea turtles — Monterey Jack, Romano and Fontina — that had been transported from the New England Aquarium after exposure to cold water temperatures in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

“Releasing each and every rehabilitated sea turtle is cause for celebration,” Ranly reiterates. “But a milestone like this reminds us to reflect on those who helped us get to this point: the state agencies, supporters, sea turtle enthusiasts and more who believe in us and our mission to save sea turtles.”

For more information, visit scaquarium.org/STCC.

Berkeley County Council Approves $100,000 for Daniel Island School

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – (Tuesday, February 27, 2024) – At its meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, Berkeley County Council voted unanimously to approve $100,000 for Daniel Island School to fund handicap-accessible playground equipment for special needs students and expand the school’s community sensory garden.Daniel Island School’s Student Council President, eighth-grader Emily Hughes, addressed County Council on the matter, requesting $72,000 for the project; b...

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – (Tuesday, February 27, 2024) – At its meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, Berkeley County Council voted unanimously to approve $100,000 for Daniel Island School to fund handicap-accessible playground equipment for special needs students and expand the school’s community sensory garden.

Daniel Island School’s Student Council President, eighth-grader Emily Hughes, addressed County Council on the matter, requesting $72,000 for the project; but Council surprised the Student Council by exceeding that request.

“We’re interested in making recess accessible to all students. We want to make this school a better place by adding special needs playground equipment and a sensory garden. We want to expand the play area to include handicap accessible equipment such as swings. We would love to expand the nearby community garden, which includes our current small sensory garden to be used by all of our students. We see kids with wheelchairs who sometimes get left out of recess or cannot physically use the equipment we currently have…and we want that to stop.” -Emily Hughes, Student Council President, Daniel Island School

“These students challenged themselves to improve their school for all students and in turn challenged Council by going to their local government to help them. It was the easiest of votes for us and I am honored to represent these incredibly kind and brilliant students.” -Josh Whitley, Finance Committee Chair, Berkeley County Council

“On behalf of Berkeley County Council, we are proud to make this monetary donation for such an essential quality of life project for our children. It is encouraging to see children looking out for their peers; and this Student Council’s selfless and inspiring mission is proof that we have incredibly promising leaders in our County’s next generation.” -Johnny Cribb, Berkeley County Supervisor

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Councilman Josh Whitley, Supervisor Johnny Cribb, and all of County Council for their incredibly generous donation to the Daniel Island School Student Council. Their support will make a significant impact in building a playground tailored to the needs of students with special needs, fostering inclusivity and joy for all. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our community’s children.” -Dr. Anthony Dixon, Berkeley County School District Superintendent

“We are so grateful to Councilman Josh Whitley, Supervisor Johnny Cribb and the rest of the Berkeley County Council for their generous donation last night. A powerful message was sent to our youth last night! Your voices matter! And they heard our County Council members, loud and clear! We are so grateful for our community and their unwavering support, especially in this initiative that is so important and near and dear to the hearts of our students. Thank you so much!” – Laura Blanchard, Daniel Island School Principal

Mixed-use building at 211 Seven Farms Drive under review

This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEENov. 2: Restore at Point Hope Ph. 1 (Point Hope Mixed Use – North) – Site plan for 158 single-family attached and detached residential homes on ...

This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.

UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Nov. 2: Restore at Point Hope Ph. 1 (Point Hope Mixed Use – North) – Site plan for 158 single-family attached and detached residential homes on 91.82 acres at 1236 Clements Ferry Rd. TMS: B2620000028. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Domonic Jones, jones.d@tandh.com.

Nov. 9: 211 Seven Farms Drive Mixed-Use – Site plan for 3-story mixed-use building with parking, retail, commercial and residential uses on .34 acres at 211 Seven Farms Dr. TMS: B2750000196, Applicant: C Baker Engineering. Contact: Bret Jarotski, bret@cbakerengineering.com.

Nov. 9: Credit One Pickleball Additions – Site plan for pickleball court additions with associated check-in and restroom buildings and maintenance building relocation at 155 Seven Farms Dr. TMS: B2750000078. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Paul Peeples, ppeeples@seamonwhiteside.com.

UPCOMING: BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS – SITE DESIGN

Nov. 1: Request for a variance to remove 2 grand trees at 1995 Daniel Island Dr. TMS: 275-00-00-080, 311 & 312. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc.

RESULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Oct. 26: Cainhoy Sports Park Amenity – Site plan for amenity, swimming pools, sports parks, parking lot, and stormwater pond on 23.5 acres at 3050 River Village Dr. TMS: B2620000008. Owner: Cainhoy Land & Timber, LLC. Contact: Steven Roach, roach.s@tandh.com. Results: Revise and resubmit to TRC.

Oct. 26: Towne at Cooper River Phase II - Road and infrastructure – Three separate items for road improvements to Enterprise Blvd, Beresford Run, and Clements Ferry Rd. and R/W extension, roadway construction, and master infrastructure to serve future development on 30.1 acres at 2620 Clements Ferry Rd. TMS: B2710001035. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Spencer Plowden, splowden@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revisions, pending zoning and SW comments.

Oct. 26: Woodfield Cooper River Farms – Site plan for 71 multifamily units on 2.7 acres at 700 Silo Acres Dr. TMS: B2710001035. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Malcolm Glenn, mglenn@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Pending zoning and SW comments.

Oct. 26: Tuxbury Farm Tract - Concept plan for an 82-unit mixed-use development on15.1 acres at 2686 SC41. TMS: B2630004006. Results: Pending SW comments and final documentation to zoning and planning.

Compiled by Suzanne Detar, sdetar@thedanielislandnews.com.

All meetings are open for public comment except the City of Charleston Technical Review Committee meetings.

For more information, contacts for specific projects and on location and time of the meetings or to learn more, visit charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/.

Thomas Island Marina project amenity under review

This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEEDec. 21: Thomas Island Marina – Site plan for gravel parking lot and restroom building to serve marina on 1.5 acres at 100 Sands Preserve Drive. TMS: ...

This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area. More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.

UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Dec. 21: Thomas Island Marina – Site plan for gravel parking lot and restroom building to serve marina on 1.5 acres at 100 Sands Preserve Drive. TMS: B2750000005. Owner: IVO Sands LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: York Kilday, ydilday@seamonwhiteside.com.

Dec. 21: Towne at Cooper River – Clements Ferry Medical – Site plan for medical office building with parking on 3.8 acres at 620 Enterprise Blvd. TMS: B2710001035. Owner: Thorn Baccich. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Spencer Plowden, splowden@seamonwhiteside.com.

Dec. 21: Mankiewicz Expansion Phase 1 – Site plan for expansion/improvements of existing Mankiewicz Coatings LLC facility on 16.06 acres at 1024 Clements Crest Lane. TMS: B2670000161. Owner: Jessen Lane LLC. Applicant: Mankiewicz Coatings LLC. Contact: Michael Delventhal, michael.delventhal@mankiewicz.com.

Dec. 21: Berkshire on Clements Ferry (Point Hope – Goldfinch Tract - Mixed Use South) – Site plan for a new multifamily residential development for 192 units on 62.86 acres. TMS: B2680000002. Owner: The Berry Company. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Domonic Jones, jones.d@tandh.com.

RESULTS: DESIGN REVIEW BOARD

Dec. 18: 604 Island Park Drive – Requesting conceptual approval for a new “Lodge” guest rooms and pub at the Daniel Island Club. TMS # 271-00-00-001. Owner: Daniel Island Club. Applicant: LaBella Associates. Results: Not available at press time.

RESULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Dec. 14: Towne at Cooper River Preliminary Plat 2 – Concept plan subdivision of parcel for 350 lots at 2620 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2710001035 Board Approvals Required. Owner: Cato Holding, LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Spencer Plowden, splowden@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revise and return.

Dec. 14: Point Hope Medical Office Building – Site plan for medical office building on 10.02 acres at 1101 Waterline St. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: TKC CCLXXXII, LLC. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Will Cox, cox.w@tandh.com. Results: Open pending delivery of Stormwater comments.

Dec. 14: Restore at Point Hope Phase 3 – Site plan for development containing 228 single-family attached units at 1236 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: The Berry Company. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Dominic Jones, jones.d@tandh.com. Results: Revise and return.

Dec. 14: Point Hope POD 4 – Preliminary plat and road construction plans for 123 single-family residences and 500 lots at 1236 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: Pulte Home Co. Contact: Steven Roach, Roach.s@tandh.com. Results: Revise and return.

Island resident organizes Spooky Tour

You’re invited to enjoy a lineup of haunted housesGhosts, ghouls and goblins have found a home on Daniel Island, all thanks to the spirits of one islander family – Scott and Heather Engler.Some call this month October, others view it as Halloween time. Scott and his family only know it as spooky season, a time for haunted houses and eerie specters to roam the streets.In 2021, he took it upon himself to transform the neighborhood into a thrilling maze of ghostly abodes, all for the pleasure of fellow neighbors...

You’re invited to enjoy a lineup of haunted houses

Ghosts, ghouls and goblins have found a home on Daniel Island, all thanks to the spirits of one islander family – Scott and Heather Engler.

Some call this month October, others view it as Halloween time. Scott and his family only know it as spooky season, a time for haunted houses and eerie specters to roam the streets.

In 2021, he took it upon himself to transform the neighborhood into a thrilling maze of ghostly abodes, all for the pleasure of fellow neighbors and Halloween fanatics. The Daniel Island Spooky Tour was born out of a simple desire: to bring the spine-chilling joy of the spooky season closer to home.

Engler, the mind behind this frightful festivity, was inspired by the excitement his daughter Austen found in exploring haunted houses on James Island.

“When we first moved here in 2019, we saw the [James Island] houses and said, ‘Oh my gosh, this is better than Disney,’” Engler said.

Determined to create the same magic within Daniel Island (and tired of driving 30 minutes away), he organized a group of willing neighbors in transforming the island into a haunted wonderland, a place where families and friends can experience the thrill of the spooky season without venturing too far from home.

“At first it was just for friends, but then it blew up. Now I feel like I have an obligation.”

Now in its third year, the Daniel Island Spooky Tour invites all islanders and visitors to cruise around the neighborhoods and explore the front yards of 31 haunted houses – and counting.

In addition to the hair-raising tour, each haunted house is named in relation to their Halloween decorations. The creativity of the residents knows no bounds, as each house boasts its own unique theme. Residents can expect to see spine-tingling displays at houses such as “House of Skulls,” “Tarantula Lair,” “Web of Death” and more.

Lisa Strehmel, who has her “House of Dragons” on display, says she chose her theme based on her daughter’s love for dragons from a young age. “Our girls are out of high school now but we love continuing to decorate every year because the kids in the neighborhood love seeing the dragons so much!”

Fellow resident Joanna Loiselle has found the seasonal house transformation to be a family tradition. “We absolutely love Halloween on Daniel Island! The kids look forward to golf carting around to see the decorations each year. This is such a special community!”

Brace yourselves for a hauntingly delightful experience. This year, the Spooky Tour is taking it up a notch. Engler said since there will be so many people, it will have to be a “shotgun” or “choose your own adventure” kind of tour where everyone can start at different places and drive to see all 31 houses on their golf carts or cars.

This year’s tour will also include a contest of four categories, judging the houses on the spookiest house, most creative, most fun and overall best haunted house.

Residents and visitors are invited to decorate their golf carts and ride along the haunted houses on Sunday, Oct. 29, beginning at 6:30 p.m. and vote for their favorites. Post your photos and comments in the DI Spooky Tour 23 Facebook group.

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, a handy map of the participating houses has been made available. Whether you travel by foot, golf cart, car or bike, Engler has created a self-guided tour of each participating house that has decked out on decorations. Each house can be found on the Maps app by visiting tinyurl.com/a336d5f3.

For fans of the island’s decorative tour, fear not. Engler is also the driving force behind the Cheer Tour, a festive neighborhood decoration tour featuring houses adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and ornaments.

Engler’s dedication to fostering a sense of community through these projects has evolved Daniel Island into an ever-vibrant hub of seasonal celebration.

“It gives you something to look forward to and feel like part of the community,” Engler said of his decoration tours. “It also gives people recognition of their homes. They put a lot of work into this.”

Engler and each Spooky Tour resident invite all islanders and visitors to stroll through the haunted streets of Daniel Island, a realm where the spooky and the spectacular collide. Happy hauntings, everyone!

The Spooky Tour houses are available to view from now until Halloween. Engler’s Christmas Cheer Tour will begin shortly after Thanksgiving.

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