2/13/07
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… at least on Hilton Head Island!
 | By Stacey Macioszek Read more of Stacey's posts |
Note: Written and edited by Stacey Macioszek (Ma-cho-zek) this new blog will contain community news, insights and my serious, as well as not so serious, interpretations of the real estate market and life, in general, in the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Okatie areas. Feedback, comments, limited criticism and words of encouragement are all welcome. Please check back often, as community events, seasonal activities and real estate opportunities come and go as quickly as the local shrimp and oyster seasons!
A great start to the spring season on Hilton Head Island are two of the most enjoyable annual events in the area, Winefest and the Verizon Heritage Golf Tournament. Winefest is held at Shelter Cove Community Park and is the largest, tented wine tasting on the East Coast. It features more than 1500 domestic and international wines and is held March 10th from 1-4pm with a cost of $30 per person. The other great event and one for which Hilton Head Island is probably best known, is The Verizon Heritage Golf Tournament, played at the Harbour Town Golf Links, in Sea Pines Resort the week after the Masters. I have always had the impression that it was the “fun” tournament for the Pros, one used to relieve some of the stress of the Masters. As well, this PGA tour event is the one Davis Love III considers his “home field” tournament. Opening ceremonies begin at noon on Monday April 9th and the tourney ends on Sunday April 15th.
Since 1969, the Heritage has been held at Sea Pines Plantation which was the first resort community on Hilton Head Island. Spawned by Charles Fraser, original Sea Pines homes became the indigenous style of architecture referred to as “The Hilton Head Style” or the “Sea Pines Style”. Influenced by the 1960’s Modern architecture movement, California Modern, Japanese Architecture, Frank Lloyd Wrights Aldbrass house, and the local vernacular “Low Country”, these structures are categorized by large roof overhangs, screened porches, low roof slopes, earth tone colors, and landscaping with native plants rather than formal southern plantings. The desired effect is intended to blend the house into nature rather than allowing it to stand out.
For years Sea Pines and Hilton Head Island, in general, was regarded as an exclusive, coastal vacation retreat. However, over the past 10 years or so, it has transitioned into an area where year-round living is becoming more common, with the 2000 census showing over 33,000 people calling Hilton Head Island home. With the increase of permanent residents has come an escalating real estate market. As of today, closings on 30 homes are pending in Sea Pines alone, with an average sale price of these homes being $1,727,526.00. While Sea Pines and the other private/golf communities can represent the premiere lifestyle of Hilton Head Island, the area also offers great opportunities for buyers at various budget levels who are seeking initial investment opportunities or the first step into owning that ultimate vacation or retirement home.
March and April are great months to explore the area and to experience some of the best island events and amazing weather!
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